sai3 mei4細微细微
Jyutpingsai3 mei4
Yalesai mèih
Definition
Slight, minute, or subtle.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on things that are physically or conceptually small to the point of being almost imperceptible. It is often used in contexts where one is trying to distinguish between two very similar options or detecting a minor change in a situation. Unlike words for simply small size, this carries a sense of precision and nuance.
Examples
This difference is very subtle, you have to pay attention to see it.
The changes in his expression were so subtle that no one noticed.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 細小, which refers to physical size. While 細小 describes an object that is objectively small, 細微 describes a quality, detail, or change that is difficult to perceive.
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.
