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 dess ka]
💬 Usage Tip: Literally this asks "is it a little okay?" — ちょっと "a little" softens the request. Swap the ending to ask other permissions: これでいいですか "Is this okay?"
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is the standard way to approach a coworker or boss at their desk before asking anything, so they can say if now is bad. Opening with this instead of launching straight into your question comes across as considerate.
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]
okay; all right (to interrupt)
Here いい means 'is it okay/convenient', used to ask for someone's time.
この席、いいですか。
Is this seat okay (to take)?
です
desu
[dess]
is; polite copula
A polite sentence ending used in formal conversation.
少し伺いたいです。
I would like to ask a little.
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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