bit1

Phrases

a bit

somewhat; to some extent:he came back looking a bit annoyed

bit by bit

gradually:bit by bit the truth started to emerge

a bit of a ——

used to suggest that something is not severe or extreme, or is the case only to a limited extent:I have had a bit of an accident he’s a bit of a womanizer

used to denote a young person or one of slight build:you’re just a bit of a girl yourself

a bit of all right

British informal a pleasing person or thing, especially a woman regarded in sexual terms: that blonde’s a bit of all right

bit of fluff (or skirt or stuff)

British informal a woman regarded in sexual terms.

bit of rough

see rough.

bit on the side

British informal

• 1a person with whom one is unfaithful to one’s partner.

• 2money earned outside one’s normal job: I’d like to make a bit on the side

bits and pieces (or British bobs)

an assortment of small items.

do one's bit

informal make a useful contribution to an effort or cause:I was persuaded to do my bit for the environment

in bits

British informal very upset or emotionally affected: she found out he was two-timing her—she’s in bits, really she is

not a bit

not at all:I’m not a bit tired

not a bit of it

British not at all:Am I being unduly cynical? Not a bit of it

to bits

• 1into pieces:both cars were smashed to bits

• 2 informal very much; to a great degree:Vicky was thrilled to bits I just love him to bits