些か

• Reading: いささか
• Romaji: isasaka
• Kanji breakdown: 些 (sa) — a little, a few, trifling
• Pronunciation: /i.sa.sa.ka/

Meaning

A little; somewhat; slightly; rather. A literary way to say 'a bit.'

A formal adverb meaning 'somewhat' or 'a little,' used in written and literary contexts. More refined than 少し (sukoshi) or ちょっと (chotto). Often pairs with negative feelings or assessments: いささか不安 (somewhat anxious), いささか疑問 (slightly doubtful). Can also function as an adjective with の or な. Occasionally used in the negative: いささかも～ない (not even slightly).

Examples

1. その提案にはいささか疑問を感じる。 I have somewhat of a doubt about that proposal.
2. 長旅でいささか疲れたが楽しかった。 I was somewhat tired from the long journey, but it was fun.
3. 彼の発言にはいささか驚かされた。 His remarks surprised me rather.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, essays, formal speech, criticism

Tone: reserved

Origin & History

From classical Japanese いささか, an ancient adverb appearing in Man'yōshū poetry. The kanji 些 (sa, a little) was later applied. One of the oldest surviving adverbs in the Japanese language.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated