慢
màn
Slow
慢 (màn) is the fundamental word for "slow" in Mandarin Chinese. It describes a lack of speed or a deliberate, unhurried pace, applicable to actions, processes, or even people.
When to use it
Neutral. It's used in everyday conversation. To tell someone to "slow down," you'd often say 慢点儿 (màn diǎnr). When encouraging someone to take their time, 慢慢来 (màn màn lái) is common.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "MAHN," with a clear, falling tone (like saying "ma'am" but with a 'n' at the end and a falling pitch).
Other ways to say it
- 慢点儿màn diǎn érslow down (a bit)
- 慢慢来màn màn láitake your time / go slowly
- 缓慢huǎn mànslow, sluggish (more formal/literary)
Examples
这趟列车开得很慢。
zhè tàng liè chē kāi dé hěn màn 。
This train is running very slowly.
请你慢点儿说，我听不懂。
qǐng nǐ màn diǎn ér shuō ， wǒ tīng bù dǒng 。
Please speak a bit slower, I don't understand.
别着急，我们慢慢来。
bié zháo jí ， wǒ men màn màn lái 。
Don't rush, let's take our time.
Pro tip: Repeating 慢 to form 慢慢 (mànmàn) often softens the tone or emphasizes a gentle, unhurried action, like in 慢慢走 (walk slowly/carefully) or 慢慢吃 (eat slowly/enjoy your meal).
Related phrases
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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