miu5 siu2渺小
Jyutpingmiu5 siu2
Yalemíuh síu
Definition
Tiny, paltry, or insignificant.
- extremely small; tiny; minute
- insignificant; negligible; of little importance
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
This word carries a philosophical or reflective tone, often used to contrast human existence against vast concepts like the universe, history, or nature. It is rarely used to describe physical objects that are simply small in size, for which words like 細或者微細 are more appropriate. It functions as a formal descriptive term that adds a sense of humility or existential perspective to a sentence.
Examples
In front of the universe, humans are truly insignificant.
Do you think your contribution is insignificant?
Related words
Common phrases
to appear insignificant
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe small physical items, such as a tiny insect or a small toy. Always reserve this for abstract concepts like personal influence, status, or one's significance in a grander scheme.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
