English–Chinese
“little” in Chinese
How to say “little” in Chinese
“Little” in Chinese is 少 (shǎo).
A noticeably reduced amount, number, frequency, or intensity compared with what is usual.
Example sentences with 少
公园里人少。gōng yuán lǐ rén shǎo
There are few people in the park.
Tips for using 少
- The same word covers time, opportunities, and strength, so the surrounding noun or description shows what is being measured.
Other Chinese words for “little”
我有一点儿紧张。wǒ yǒu yì diǎnr jǐn zhāng
I am a little nervous.
这个有点儿贵。zhè ge yóu diǎnr guì
This is a little expensive.
你可以把音量稍微调小吗？nǐ ké yǐ bǎ yīn liàng shāo wēi tiáo xiǎo ma
Can you turn the volume down a little?
今天有一点儿冷。jīn tiān yǒu yì diǎnr lěng
It is a little cold today.
这个菜偏咸。zhè ge cài piān xián
This dish is a little salty.
我略紧张。wǒ lüè jǐn zhāng
I am a little nervous.
请稍等一下。qǐng shāo děng yí xià
Please wait a little.
请稍稍等一下。qǐng shāo shāo děng yí xià
Please wait just a little.