How to Say ‘Do you have a moment?’ in Japanese
ちょっといいですか。
chotto ii desu ka
[chotto ee-ee desu ka]
💬 Usage Tip: ちょっと literally means "a little", and いいですか means "is it okay?", so the phrase is really "Is it okay for a bit?" Leaving out what you want is normal; the listener fills it in.
Phrase Breakdown
ちょっと
chotto
[chotto]
a little
Indicating a small quantity or amount.
ちょっと待って。
Wait a little.
いい
ii
[ee-ee]
good; nice
A common adjective used to show approval or a positive impression.
その考えはいいですね。
That idea is nice.
です
desu
[desu]
is; polite ending
A polite sentence ending often used to soften statements.
キャンセルしたいです。
I want to cancel.
か
ka
[ka]
question particle
Used to create a yes/no question in informal speech.
行くか？
Shall we go?
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