1A little; a small amount or degree; slightly.
味見をして、ちょっと塩を足した。
I tasted it and added a little salt.
時間がちょっとしかないので、手短に話します。
I only have a little time, so I'll speak briefly.
彼の態度は前よりちょっと良くなった。
His attitude has gotten a bit better than before.
2Just a minute; for a moment; briefly (used to ask someone to wait or to indicate a short absence).
ちょっと待ってください。すぐ戻ります。
Please wait a moment. I'll be right back.
電話が来たので、ちょっと席を外します。
I got a phone call, so I'll step away for a moment.
その件についてはちょっと確認してきますね。
I'll check on that briefly.
3Somewhat; rather; fairly; used to soften or indicate a moderate degree.
この店のケーキはちょっと高いけど美味しい。
The cakes at this shop are a bit expensive, but delicious.
今日はちょっと寒いから、上着を着ていきなさい。
It's rather cold today, so wear a coat.
彼はちょっと変わった趣味を持っている。
He has somewhat unusual hobbies.
4(Used before a verb in negative form) indicates that something is not easily or readily done; not likely to happen quickly.
彼女にはちょっと頼めない。とても忙しそうだから。
I can't really ask her. She seems very busy.
そんな簡単に諦めるわけにはちょっといかない。
I can't just give up that easily.
ちょっと言ったくらいで信じられないよ。
You can't believe it just because I said it once.
5An interjection used to get someone's attention or express mild protest (e.g., “Hey!” “Excuse me!”).
ちょっと！それは私の席だよ。
Hey! That's my seat.
ちょっと、今いい？話したいことがあるんだけど。
Excuse me, do you have a moment? I want to talk.
ちょっと失礼します。通ります。
Excuse me. I'm passing through.
6A polite refusal or a way to indicate that something is not feasible or desirable (e.g., “Thanks, but no”; “That's difficult”).
飲み会に誘われたが、ちょっと予定があって行けない。
I was invited to the drinking party, but I have plans and can't go.
その提案はちょっと…。もう少し考えさせてください。
That suggestion is a bit... Could you let me think about it a little more?