01
das Bissel
little bit
Colloquial, especially in southern Germany and Austria, for a very small amount of something; a little bit.
example
Wart noch ein Bissel, ich bin gleich fertig!
Wait a little bit longer; I'll be done in a moment!
das Bissel
little bit
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Meanings
Usage tips
Regional use
'Bissel' (little bit) is a colloquial word used mainly in southern Germany and Austria. In other parts of Germany, it is less common.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du mir noch ein Bissel Soße geben?
Can you give me a little bit more sauce?
Word structure
The word is a regional variant of 'Bisschen' (little bit). This in turn comes from 'der Bissen' (a bite). 'Ein Bissel' therefore literally means 'a small bite'.
EXAMPLE
Ich möchte nur ein Bissel von dem Kuchen probieren.
I only want to try a little bit of the cake.
Adverbial use
Although 'das Bissel' (the little bit) is a noun, it is very often used like an adverb to slightly soften an action or an adjective. It then means 'a little' or 'somewhat'.
EXAMPLE
Ich bin heute ein Bissel müde.
I'm a little bit tired today.
Common mistake
Because 'Bissel' (little bit) is often used like an adverb, learners sometimes forget to capitalize it. Remember: 'das Bissel' is a noun and is therefore always capitalized.
EXAMPLE
Gib mir bitte noch ein Bissel Zeit.
Please give me a little bit more time.
Compare with
Bissel vs etwas
something / somewhat
'etwas' and 'das Bissel' can both mean a small, unspecified amount. 'etwas' is neutral and fits anywhere, for example in conversations, texts, and more formal situations. 'das Bissel' is colloquial and regional, especially in southern Germany and Austria. It often sounds more personal or casual. The words can be confused because both can mean 'a little'. If you want to speak safely and neutrally, use 'etwas'. 'das Bissel' is more suitable for casual everyday language.
Bissel
Das Bissel Suppe reicht mir heute völlig.
That little bit of soup is completely enough for me today.
etwas
Kannst du mir bitte etwas Wasser geben?
Could you please give me some water?
In real life
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