十分

• Pinyin: shí fēn
• Hanzi breakdown: 十 = cross shape representing the number ten; 分 = 八 (divide) + 刀 (knife), meaning 'to divide/parts'

Meaning

Very; extremely. An adverb used to emphasise a high degree.

Functions similarly to 很 (very) but carries a slightly more formal or emphatic tone. Common in both spoken and written Chinese, though in casual conversation 很 or 特别 may feel more natural. Literally means 'ten parts,' implying completeness or fullness.

Examples

1. 他对我十分友好。 He is very friendly to me.
2. 这件事十分重要。 This matter is very important.
3. 我十分感谢你的帮助。 I am extremely grateful for your help.

Usage Guide

Context: emphasis, written language, expressing degree

Tone: emphatic

Do Say

• 他的中文说得十分好。(He speaks Chinese very well.)
• 我十分喜欢这个地方。(I like this place very much.)

Don't Say

• 不要在口语中过度使用十分 (Don't overuse 十分 in casual speech — it sounds slightly formal; in everyday conversation, 很 or 特别 is more natural)

Origin & History

十 (shí, ten) + 分 (fēn, parts). Literally 'ten parts out of ten,' meaning completely or to the fullest degree.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal