a little bit more
in Spanishun poco más
/oon POH-koh MAHS/
This is the standard, go-to way to ask for a bit more of anything, whether it's food, time, or information.
A simple gesture and the phrase 'un poquito más' go a long way in social settings.
💬Other Ways to Say It
un poquito más
/oon poh-KEE-toh MAHS/
By adding the '-ito' ending, you make the phrase sound friendlier and emphasize that you only want a tiny amount.
un pelín más
/oon peh-LEEN MAHS/
A very common colloquial expression in Spain that literally translates to 'a hair more.'
otro poquito
/OH-troh poh-KEE-toh/
Translates to 'another little bit.' It implies you've already had some and would like a small refill.
un tanto más
/oon TAHN-toh MAHS/
A more sophisticated way to say 'somewhat more' or 'a bit more.'
una pizca más
/OO-nah PEES-kah MAHS/
Literally means 'a pinch more.'
un toque más
/oon TOH-keh MAHS/
Literally 'a touch more.'
🔑Key Words
Key Words to learn:
📊Quick Comparison
Here is how the most common versions of 'a little bit more' differ in tone and region.
| Phrase | Formality | Best For | Avoid When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Un poco más | Neutral | General use, clear and direct. | Rarely avoided; it's always safe. |
| Un poquito más | Informal/Polite | Sounding friendly or humble. | Highly formal legal or academic writing. |
| Un pelín más | Casual | Talking to friends in Spain. | Formal business meetings in Latin America. |
📈Difficulty Level
The sounds are very similar to English, just remember the 'o' in 'poco' is short and clean.
Generally simple, but you must remember to add 'de' before a noun.
Understanding the politeness of diminutives (poquito) is the only real hurdle.
Key Challenges:
- Using 'de' correctly
- Choosing between poco and poquito for the right social vibe
💡Examples in Action
¿Puedes hablar un poco más despacio, por favor?
Can you speak a little bit slower, please?
Solo quiero un poquito más de tarta.
I only want a little bit more cake.
Necesito un pelín más de tiempo para terminar.
I need a tiny bit more time to finish.
¿Le pongo un poquito más de café?
Should I give you a little bit more coffee?
🌍Cultural Context
The Power of the Diminutive
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, especially in Mexico and Colombia, using 'poquito' instead of 'poco' isn't just about size—it's about politeness. It softens the request and makes you sound more humble and less demanding.
Hospitality and Food
When a host offers more food, saying 'un poquito más' is a great way to show you enjoyed the meal without appearing greedy. It's often culturally expected to accept at least 'un poquito' to show appreciation.
Hand Gestures
Spanish speakers often accompany 'un poquito' with a gesture: holding the thumb and index finger close together without touching. This visual aid is universal and helps clarify you mean a 'tiny' amount.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'pequeño' instead of 'poco'
Mistake: "Un pequeño más"
Correction: Un poco más
Forgetting the word 'de'
Mistake: "Un poco más agua"
Correction: Un poco más de agua
💡Pro Tips
The 'Ito' Trick
If you want to sound extra friendly or are asking for a very small amount, add '-ito' to the end of words. 'Un poco' becomes 'un poquito', and 'un tanto' becomes 'un tantito'.
Responding to 'Anything else?'
If a waiter asks '¿Algo más?' (Anything else?), and you want just a tiny bit more of something, 'Solo un poquito más' is the perfect polite response.
🗺️Regional Variations
Spain
Spain loves the word 'pelín' for small quantities. It's very common in bars and restaurants.
Mexico
Mexicans frequently use 'tantito' as a synonym for 'poquito' and often stack diminutives (poquititito) to mean a microscopic amount.
Argentina
Argentines often use 'un toque' (a touch) or 'un cachito' (a little piece) in casual conversation.
💬What Comes Next?
You've asked for a little more and they provide it
Aquí tiene.
Here you go.
Muchas gracias, con eso basta.
Thank you very much, that's enough.
A waiter asks if you want more of anything
¿Desea algo más?
Do you desire anything else?
Solo un poco más de agua, por favor.
Just a little more water, please.
🎯Your Learning Path
➡️ Learn Next:
Ya basta / Es suficiente
Useful for stopping someone after you've asked for 'a little more.'
Mucho más
The logical opposite of 'un poco más' for when you need a lot.
Nada más, gracias
Perfect for ending a transaction or order politely.
✏️Test Your Knowledge
💡 Quick Quiz: a little bit more
Question 1 of 3
You are at a friend's house in Madrid and want just a tiny bit more wine. Which casual phrase is most appropriate?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'un poco más' formal or informal?
It is neutral! You can use 'un poco más' with your boss, a waiter, or your best friend without worry.
What is the difference between 'poco' and 'pequeño'?
'Poco' refers to quantity (amount), while 'pequeño' refers to physical size. Use 'poco' for 'a little bit more' of a substance or time.
Can I use 'más poco' to say 'less'?
No, that's a common mistake! To say 'less' or 'a little bit less', you should say 'un poco menos'.
What does 'un cachito' mean?
It's a very informal way to say 'a little piece' or 'a little bit,' common in countries like Venezuela, Mexico, and Argentina.
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