Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "a little too" with 有一点儿 (yǒu yìdiǎnr)

    HSK 2
    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Subject + 有一点儿 + Adjective

    Explanation

    有一点儿 (yǒu yìdiǎnr) is placed before an adjective to express that something is "a little bit" of a quality, often with a slightly negative or undesirable connotation. It softens the statement while implying the degree is more than ideal.

    Examples

    • 这件衣服有一点儿贵。

      Zhè jiàn yīfu yǒu yìdiǎnr guì.

      This piece of clothing is a little expensive.

    • 今天有一点儿冷,穿件外套吧。

      Jīntiān yǒu yìdiǎnr lěng, chuān jiàn wàitào ba.

      It's a little cold today; put on a jacket.

    • 这个汤有一点儿咸了。

      Zhège tāng yǒu yìdiǎnr xián le.

      This soup is a little too salty.