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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'tiny' or 'small' with 小小 (xiǎoxiǎo)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    小小 + 的 + Noun

    Explanation

    The reduplicated adjective 小小 (xiǎoxiǎo) means 'tiny,' 'small,' or 'little,' emphasizing smallness in a vivid or affectionate way. Reduplication of 小 intensifies the sense of diminutiveness and adds a descriptive, literary flavor. 小小 is often placed before 的 and a noun as a modifier.

    Examples

    • 小小的一个举动温暖了很多人。

      xiǎoxiǎo de yīgè jǔdòng wēnnuǎn le hěn duō rén.

      A small gesture warmed many people's hearts.

    • 她手里拿着一个小小的礼物盒。

      tā shǒu lǐ názhe yīgè xiǎoxiǎo de lǐwù hé.

      She was holding a tiny gift box in her hands.

    • 别看他小小年纪，懂的东西很多。

      bié kàn tā xiǎoxiǎo niánjì, dǒng de dōngxī hěn duō.

      Don't let his young age fool you — he knows a lot.

    Expressing 'tiny' or 'small' with 小小 (xiǎoxiǎo) | Chinese Grammar