Literal translation
to be a bit crazy
Meaning
to be a bit foolish, briefly unreasonable
Explanation
This phrase means 'to be a bit foolish, briefly unreasonable', always said of a person. The adverb 'a little' tempers the following adjective to indicate a limited, temporary lapse in behavior: what is meant here is a moment of scattiness, a whim, or a brief, passing lapse of judgment. The central word does not appear in our attested dictionaries in this exact form; its meaning follows readily from the context of the expression and its theme, filed among character traits, where it names a somewhat muddled state of mind, between distraction and mild eccentricity. The expression is used indulgently, often with a laugh, to excuse or comment on a surprising decision or remark coming from an otherwise sensible person, much as one might say in English 'he's a bit touched' or 'she's got a screw loose' without meaning any harsh judgment. The register is familiar and warm, reserved for close relationships where such a remark is taken in good humor.