差不多

• Pinyin: chà bu duō
• Hanzi breakdown: 差 = 羊 (sheep) + 工 (work); 不 = 'not'; 多 = two 夕 (evening), meaning 'many'

Meaning

Almost; about the same; more or less. Used to indicate approximate equality or nearness.

One of the most useful expressions in spoken Chinese. Can describe approximate quantities, similar qualities, or near completion. Also used as a polite way to say something is 'good enough.' Reflects a cultural comfort with approximation over precision in casual contexts.

Examples

1. 我们两个差不多高。 The two of us are about the same height.
2. 时间差不多了，我们走吧。 It's about time — let's go.
3. 这两件衣服的价格差不多。 These two pieces of clothing are about the same price.

Usage Guide

Context: comparison, approximation, everyday

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 我们差不多大。(We're about the same age.)
• 饭差不多好了。(The food is almost ready.)

Don't Say

• 他的成绩差不多很好。(Don't combine 差不多 with degree words like 很 — say 他的成绩还不错 or 他的成绩差不多是最好的.)

Origin & History

Literally 'lacking not much' — 差 (to lack/differ) + 不多 (not much). The three characters together paint a picture of a gap so small it barely matters.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal