bit
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1 a small amount (n.) A2 Elementarya small piece or amount of something.
a small portion, degree, or amount of something; often used in the partitive 'a bit of'.
ExampleThere were bits of broken glass all over the kitchen floor.
ExampleThe detective found a tiny bit of blue fabric caught on the fence, which proved the suspect had climbed over it.
PitfallI need a bit water.I need a bit of water.When 'bit' is followed by a noun, you must use the preposition 'of'.
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2 a short time (n.) A2 Elementary Informala short period of time.
a brief and usually unspecified interval of time.
ExampleWait here for a bit while I go and find the manager.
ExampleAfter walking for a bit, they realized they had been heading in the wrong direction since the last crossroads.
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3 computing unit (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computingthe smallest unit of information in a computer, represented as a 0 or 1.
the basic unit of information in computing and digital communications, representing a choice between two exclusive states.
ExampleA single byte is made up of eight bits.
ExampleThe encryption strength is determined by the number of bits in the key, making longer keys significantly harder to crack.
- binary digit
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4 comedy routine (n.) C1 Advanced Informal Theatrea short performance or a joke that someone repeats.
a self-contained piece of business, comedy routine, or a recurring joke.
ExampleThe comedian did a funny bit about trying to buy a new phone.
ExampleThe late-night host performed a satirical bit involving an impression of the prime minister that went viral the next morning.
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5 tool part (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Technicalthe sharp part of a tool that cuts or makes holes.
the detachable cutting or drilling component of a tool, such as a drill or plane.
ExampleYou need a smaller drill bit to make the holes for these screws.
ExampleThe carpenter swapped the dull bit for a sharper one before continuing to bore holes into the hardwood cabinet doors.
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6 horse equipment (n.) C1 Advanced Technical Sportthe metal bar that goes in a horse's mouth to help the rider control it.
the metal mouthpiece of a bridle, used to control a horse through pressure on the mouth.
ExampleThe horse pulled against the bit because it wanted to run faster.
ExampleA skilled rider uses the bit to communicate subtle cues to the horse rather than relying on physical force.