dim2 dik6點滴点滴
Jyutpingdim2 dik6
Yaledím dihk
Definition
A tiny bit, a drop, or a small component.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
Carries a formal or literary tone that is rarely used in casual spoken Cantonese. It is almost exclusively found in negative constructions to emphasize the total absence of something, such as 冇點滴. While it means a tiny amount, it is more abstract than physical, making it unsuitable for describing small portions of food or objects.
Examples
He does not have even the slightest doubt about this matter.
Do you still have even the smallest clue?
Related words
Common phrases
not a single bit
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it as a direct synonym for 一啲, but 點滴 is significantly more formal and dramatic. It sounds unnatural in everyday conversation when describing simple quantities like a little bit of water or money.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
