un poquito
/un pokito/from spelling rules
The English phrase "a tiny bit" is translated into Spanish as un poquito.
Un poquito is used to describe a very small amount of something. You can use it as an adverb to modify adjectives, for example, un poquito cansado (a tiny bit tired).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the masculine indefinite article un (a/one) and the diminutive form of poco (little), which is poquito.
Which one should you use?
While un poco means "a little", un poquito is more emphatic and implies a smaller quantity than the standard un poco.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Un poquito is an informal phrase. The use of the diminutive suffix -ito makes the tone sound more informal, affectionate or softening. For a more informal variation, you can use un poquitito.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The colloquial term un pelín is a way to express "a tiny bit" and is more prevalent in regions such as Spain.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you use un poquito to modify a noun, you must add the preposition de after the phrase, such as un poquito de sal (a tiny bit of salt).
Did you know?
- In some contexts, saying un poquito when you actually want more is a common cultural modesty trait used during social gatherings.
- While un poquito is universal, people in Spain often use un pelín, which literally translates to 'a little hair'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, people use un poquito as a polite way to decline something or soften a request to avoid appearing demanding.
Examples in context
- Necesito solamente un poquito de azúcar para mi café.I only need a tiny bit of sugar for my coffee.
- Agrega una pizca de sal al guisado.Add a tiny bit of salt to the stew.
- ¿Me puedes prestar un poquitito de dinero?Can you lend me a tiny bit of money?
- Me gustaría probar un pelín de tu postre.I would like to try a tiny bit of your dessert.
- Ponle un poquito de sal, por favor.Put a tiny bit of salt on it, please.
- Solo quiero un poquito de pastel.I only want a tiny bit of cake.
- Me duele un poquito la cabeza.My head hurts a tiny bit.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are sharing a coffee at a cafe.
- Elena¿Quieres un poquito de azúcar en tu café?Do you want a tiny bit of sugar in your coffee?
- MateoSí, gracias, Elena.Yes, thanks, Elena.
- ElenaAquí tienes, Mateo.Here you go, Mateo.
- MateoMuchas gracias, está perfecto.Thank you very much, it is perfect.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
