The Vietnamese phrase "chút ít" translates to "a little" or "a bit" in English. It is used to describe a small quantity or amount of something. This phrase is commonly used in everyday conversations when you want to indicate that there is not much of something.
You can use "chút ít" when you want to express a slight amount or when you want to soften a statement. For example, if you want to say that you need a little more time, you might say "tôi cần một chút ít thời gian," which means "I need a little more time."
Tôi chỉ có chút ít tiền.
(I only have a little money.)
Bạn có thể cho tôi một chút ít nước không?
(Can you give me a little water?)
In more complex sentences, "chút ít" can be used to emphasize modesty or to downplay a request or statement. For example: - Tôi chỉ cần một chút ít sự giúp đỡ từ bạn.
(I just need a little help from you.)
While "chút ít" primarily means "a little," it can also imply a sense of humility or modesty when asking for something. It doesn't imply urgency or necessity; it's more about being polite.
In summary, "chút ít" is a useful phrase in Vietnamese that helps express small amounts in a polite manner.