A bit

[nyggus]

Hi:
Is "a bit" an informal way of expressing "slightly"?

Best,
Nyggus

[Fizi]

Is "a bit" an informal way of expressing "slightly"?

I don't really think it's informal, but it can take the meaning of slightly, among other things such as a small amount, portion, or degree. It has wide usage.
Ex:
Turn it down just a bit.
Tell me a bit about yourself.
Let's spend a bit of time together this weekend.
Wait a bit and he'll show up.
I'm not too hungry but I can eat just a bit.
He's in a bit of trouble.
I'm a bit confused.
He's a bit under the weather today.
Let's chat a bit.
It's a bit off center.

[nyggus]

Thanks, Fizi. Note, however, that all your examples are taken from the casual language: I haven't found convincing examples of its use in formal language. So, my question is still waiting for the answer. Is "a bit" informal or can be used in formal language, too?

Thanks,
Nyggus

[Casiopea]

If "slightly" is synonymous with to a small degree; somewhat, then, yes, a bit (e.g., I feel a bit warm; It's a bit crazy) is standard English. It's an idiom.

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