Quick Reference

Meaning & Definition

Chotto (ちょっと) is one of the most versatile and frequently used words in Japanese. It means ‘a little’ or ‘a bit,’ but in practice it functions as a social lubricant, softening requests and statements.

Chotto primarily means ‘a little’ or ‘a bit.’ Chotto matte (ちょっと待って) means ‘wait a moment.’ Chotto kudasai means ‘a little, please.’ But chotto does far more than express quantity. It’s used to soften requests or refusals. Saying ‘chotto…’ while trailing off is a polite way to say no without directly rejecting. It’s also used as a filler word in conversation, buying time while thinking. In casual speech, chotto can mean ‘rather’ or ‘quite’: chotto muzukashii means ‘rather difficult.’

How to Use It

Chotto is incredibly versatile but context-dependent. A ‘chotto…’ that trails off can mean refusal or hesitation. Chotto can sound dismissive if used carelessly, so gauge your audience. Also, chotto is primarily casual—in formal writing, use sukunai (少ない) or shoushō (少々). Don’t overuse chotto in professional settings.

Kanji Breakdown

ちょっと is written in hiragana. While it has kanji variants (少々, 暫く), the hiragana version is standard in modern Japanese.

Example Sentences

Cultural Context

Chotto is deeply embedded in Japanese communication culture. The ability to use chotto appropriately—knowing when it softens a statement and when it might offend—is part of Japanese social competence. Japanese people use chotto to navigate complex social hierarchies and group dynamics without direct confrontation.

In business and formal settings, chotto is ubiquitous. A manager might say ‘chotto shigoto ga aru’ (there’s a bit of work) to mean significant tasks. The ambiguity of chotto allows Japanese communication to remain indirect and non-confrontational, a core value in Japanese society.

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