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    Chinese Grammar

    Describing something as small or little with 小 (xiǎo)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    小 + Noun / Subject + 很 + 小

    Explanation

    小 (xiǎo) is an adjective meaning "small," "little," or "young." It is one of the most basic and versatile adjectives in Chinese, used to describe size, age, or degree. It can also appear as a prefix in names and titles to convey familiarity or affection, as in 小王 (Little Wang).

    Examples

    • 这个房间太小了,放不下这张桌子。

      Zhège fángjiān tài xiǎo le, fàng bú xià zhè zhāng zhuōzi.

      This room is too small; it can't fit this table.

    • 她有一个小弟弟,今年三岁。

      Tā yǒu yí ge xiǎo dìdi, jīnnián sān suì.

      She has a little brother who is three years old this year.

    • 我想养一只小狗。

      Wǒ xiǎng yǎng yì zhī xiǎo gǒu.

      I want to raise a puppy.

    Describing something as small or little with 小 (xiǎo) | Chinese Grammar