appetizer / bite
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appetizer / bite
A small, bite-sized portion of food that is often served at receptions, parties, or as a starter. Synonymous with finger food or canapé.
Beim Sektempfang wurden verschiedene kleine Häppchen gereicht.
At the champagne reception, various small appetizers were served.
'Häppchen' (small bite/appetizer) is the diminutive form of 'der Happen' (a bite). The ending '-chen' makes nouns neuter ('das') and signals that something is small.
Iss doch noch ein kleines Häppchen, bevor du gehst.
Have one more little bite before you go.
Häppchen (appetizers/small bites) are typically 'gereicht' (passed around), 'angeboten' (offered), or 'serviert' (served) at social occasions. You often find them at a 'Buffet' (buffet) or at an 'Empfang' (reception).
Auf der Party gab es eine große Auswahl an leckeren Häppchen.
At the party, there was a large selection of delicious appetizers.
The adverb 'häppchenweise' (bit by bit) is often used figuratively, especially for information. It means that something is not revealed or received all at once, but gradually in small parts.
Der Zeuge erzählte die Geschichte nur häppchenweise.
The witness told the story only bit by bit.
trifle / snack
'eine Kleinigkeit' and 'ein Häppchen' can both mean something small to eat. 'Eine Kleinigkeit' is general and everyday: you eat a little, perhaps a yogurt, a slice of bread, or a small amount of something warm. 'Ein Häppchen' is more specific: it is a small portion that you can often eat in one bite, for example at a party or a reception. Learners may confuse the words because both describe small foods. If you simply want to eat a little, you are more likely to say 'eine Kleinigkeit'. If you are talking about small, prepared pieces for guests, 'Häppchen' fits better.
Auf der Feier standen kleine Häppchen mit Käse und Gemüse auf dem Tisch.
At the party, small appetizers with cheese and vegetables were on the table.
Nach der Arbeit esse ich schnell eine Kleinigkeit.
After work, I'll quickly have a little something to eat.