bittily

Bittily is a rare English adverb meaning “in a bitty manner,” usually with the implication of doing or providing something in very small increments. It can describe saving money a little at a time, adding ingredients in tiny quantities, or breaking something down into small pieces. The word combines bitty, an informal adjective meaning very small, with the adverbial suffix -ly, with the final y of bitty conventionally dropped before the suffix. Unlike its relative bitterly, which can describe strong emotion or an intense taste, bittily focuses on scale rather than intensity or resentment. It is most useful when the smallness of the unit is relevant: a series of modest contributions, cautious additions, or tiny movements. Although dictionaries recognize the form, ordinary speakers are more likely to choose phrases such as “in small amounts,” “little by little,” or “a pinch at a time.” In everyday prose, bittily therefore sounds noticeably marked, whimsical, or deliberately precise, and it is best used sparingly.

In very small amounts or increments; in a bitty manner.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of bittily

The word is English and is formed from the adjective bitty plus the adverbial suffix -ly, with the final y of bitty dropped before the suffix. Bitty is itself a diminutive of bit, a word for a small piece or amount. The formation follows ordinary English morphology and produces a specialized, relatively rare adverb rather than a productive everyday form.

How bittily is actually used

Rare and generally informal; more idiomatic alternatives include “in small amounts,” “in tiny increments,” and “little by little.”

Easily confused with bittily

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Rhymes with bittily