What is the difference between "すこし" and "少し"?

"すこし" means "a little, a few, a bit" (N5), whereas "少し" represents "a little, a few" (N4).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "すこし (sukoshi)"

Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.

Kanji Option A

すこし (sukoshi)

N5 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

すこし (sukoshi)

N4 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "すこし (sukoshi)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

すこし (Level: N5): Translates to "a little, a few, a bit" and is used when 量や程度が少ないことを表す副詞です。「少し」と漢字で書くこともあります。.
少し (Level: N4): Maps to "a little, a few" and carries the nuance of An adverb meaning 'a little' or 'a few'. It expresses a small quantity, degree, or extent. It can be used for countable or uncountable nouns, and also to modify verbs or adjectives. Often used in positive or neutral statements..

Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!

Bilingual Context for "すこし"

私は日本語が少し話せます。

I can speak a little Japanese.

Bilingual Context for "少し"

私は日本語が少し話せます。

I can speak a little Japanese.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "私は日本語が少し話せます。" (Meaning: "I can speak a little Japanese.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "すこし" is used for "a little, a few, a bit" in the context: "I can speak a little Japanese.".