少し

すこし
Alternative writings: 寡し, 些し
JLPT:N5
Frequency:
1

A little; a small amount or degree; somewhat — used widely as an adverb.

Adverb

Examples

少し休んでから、また仕事を続けよう。

Let's rest a little and then continue working.

コーヒーを少しください。

Please give me a little coffee.

彼の日本語は少し上手になった。

His Japanese has improved a little.

2

A short time; a little while — indicating a brief duration.

Adverb

Examples

少しの間、外に出ていました。

I was out for a little while.

少し待ってください、すぐ戻ります。

Please wait a moment; I'll be right back.

3

A short distance; a little way — indicating a small spatial gap.

Adverb

Examples

駅はここから少し離れています。

The station is a little distance from here.

少し先にコンビニがあります。

There's a convenience store a little further ahead.

Word Relationships