Usage of 余り
The word 余り is commonly used in two main ways in Mandarin Chinese. First, it can function as an adverb meaning "not very" or "not much," often used with verbs or adjectives to express a low degree or frequency of an action or state. For example, "余り喜欢" means "not very like."
Second, 余り can mean "leftover" or "surplus," referring to something remaining after the main part has been used or taken. This usage is common with nouns like money, food, or time.
Common Collocations
- 余り喜欢 (not very like): used to express mild dislike or low preference.
- 余り复习 (not much review): indicates insufficient or limited action.
- 余り的钱 (leftover money): refers to surplus or remaining amount.
Notes
When used as an adverb, 余り usually appears before the verb or adjective it modifies and is often followed by a negative verb like 不 or 没 to emphasize the low degree. In the meaning of "leftover," it functions as an adjective before a noun.
Avoid confusing 余り with 余, which alone can mean "surplus" but is less commonly used as an adverb. The full form 余り is more natural in everyday speech.