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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to add' with 添 (tiān)

    Actions & Events
    Degree & Intensity

    Structure

    给 + Object + 添 + (上) + Something

    Explanation

    The verb 添 (tiān) means "to add" or "to increase," describing the action of putting something extra onto or into something. It is often used when adding something unnecessary or unwanted, as in the idiom 画蛇添足 (to draw legs on a snake — doing something superfluous). It can be followed by 上 to emphasize the addition.

    Examples

    • 汤太淡了，再添点盐吧。

      Tāng tài dàn le, zài tiān diǎn yán ba.

      The soup is too bland; add a bit more salt.

    • 别画蛇添足了，这样已经很好了。

      Bié huà shé tiān zú le, zhèyàng yǐjīng hěn hǎo le.

      Don't gild the lily — it's already great as it is.

    • 天冷了，记得添件外套再出门。

      Tiān lěng le, jìde tiān jiàn wàitào zài chūmén.

      It's getting cold; remember to put on a jacket before going out.

    Expressing 'to add' with 添 (tiān) | Chinese Grammar