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 from my desk 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 go 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.
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.
5An interjection used to get someone's attention or express mild protest (e.g., "Hey!" or "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 to you.
ちょっと失礼します。通ります。
Excuse me. Coming 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've got other plans, so I 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?