Meaning
稍 is an adverb meaning 'slightly' or 'a bit,' used to indicate a small degree or minor change. It softens statements and makes requests or suggestions more polite. It appears frequently in both spoken and written Chinese to express moderation.
Usage
Commonly used before adjectives or verbs to indicate a small degree of difference or change. Often appears in polite requests like 稍等 (wait a moment). Can be combined with 微 to form 稍微, which has the same meaning but is slightly more formal. Native speakers use it to make statements less absolute or commands less direct.
Examples
- 01请稍等，我马上就来。, .Please wait a moment, I'll be right there.
- 02这件衣服稍大了一点。.This piece of clothing is slightly too big.
Common collocations
- 稍等wait a moment
- 稍后later, in a moment
- 稍微...一点...a little bit...
- 稍加add a little, slightly increase
Antonyms
Origin
Originally composed of the grain radical 禾 (grain) and 肖 (resemble), suggesting something small or minute like a grain tip. The character evolved to express the abstract concept of 'slightly' or 'a little bit.'