Softening degree with 点 (dian)

Use this small degree word after adjectives or adverbs to request or describe a slight adjustment.

elementaryA2 · TOCFL a2discoursediscourse marker

Pattern

Adjective / adverb + 点

Key words

Core idea

can follow an adjective or adverb to mean “a little more” or “a bit.” It is common in requests and comparisons of degree.

This use is close to 一点, but shorter and very common in everyday speech.

Word order note

Put after the word whose degree changes. It does not usually sit before the adjective or adverb in this pattern.

Examples

请快点儿走。

Qǐng kuài diǎnr zǒu.

Please walk a little faster.

这件衣服便宜点儿。

Zhè jiàn yīfu piányí diǎnr.

This item of clothing is a little cheaper.

你说慢点儿。

Nǐ shuō màn diǎnr.

Speak a little more slowly.

Common mistakes

Avoid

请点儿快走。

Use

请快点儿走。

点儿 follows the adjective or adverb whose degree is being adjusted.