The opposite of our last character: 大 dà, xiǎo 小 means "Small" and sometimes "Cute".
According to China Sage, xiǎo 小 represents a small thing cut in half (the two dots on either side split by the stylized line down the middle).
This simple character is one we'll see over and over again by itself and then used in more complex characters. Can you see where xiǎo 小 is used as part of a complex character in the 1st picture?
In all of these pictures, the xiǎo 小 is modifying the character after it.
小吃 means Small eating or Snacks.
小厨 is Small kitchen.
小炒 is Small stir-fry.
小面 is Small noodles.
This character is found all over the place, especially in food-related situations. At the next Chinese restaurant, count how many times you see it listed on the menu. Each time you see it, say the word xiǎo to yourself and make a gesture denoting smallness. I put my fingers close together, indicating a tiny amount.
This learning method is called TPR (Total Physical Response) and will create more neural connections in your brain, allowing you to learn more quickly and retain the information longer.
What characters do you want to learn next? Leave me a comment and let me know. I'm here to help YOU!
-Michael McGillicuddy
Guangdong, China
Tell others you are learning Chinese! Chinese speakers will appreciate your efforts and give you as much help as you want!
