How to Say ‘A little’ in Japanese
少し
sukoshi
[soo-koh-shee]
💬 Usage Tip: [少し] is a handy “softener.” You can answer many questions with it: [少しです].
🇯🇵 In Japan: Japanese often downshift answers politely (even when uncomfortable). If it’s serious, it’s okay to be clear.
Phrase Breakdown
少し
sukoshi
[soo-koh-shee]
a little; a bit
少し（すこし） means “a little.” Useful to describe mild pain, slight nausea, a small amount of fever, etc.
おなかが少し痛いです。
My stomach hurts a little.
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