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.
What does 慢 (màn) mean?
慢 (màn) means “slow” in English.
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 diǎnrslow down (a bit)
- 慢慢来mànman láitake your time / go slowly
- 缓慢huǎnmànslow, sluggish (more formal/literary)
Examples
这趟列车开得很慢。
zhè tàng lièchē kāi de hěn màn.
This train is running very slowly.
请你慢点儿说，我听不懂。
qǐng nǐ màn diǎnr shuō, wǒ tīng bu dǒng.
Please speak a bit slower, I don't understand.
别着急，我们慢慢来。
bié zháojí, wǒmen mànman 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
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