Meaning
To indicate a small amount or limited ability in something.
Cultural Background
In France, 'un peu' is used to avoid being too direct, which is considered rude. In Quebec, you might hear 'un petit peu' more frequently for emphasis. Belgian French often uses 'un peu' in the same way as France, but with a slightly different intonation. Swiss French speakers use 'un peu' very carefully to maintain a polite distance.
The 'de' rule
Always remember: 'un peu' + noun = 'un peu de'. 'Un peu' + adjective = 'un peu'.
Don't be negative
Avoid using 'peu' when you mean 'a little'. It sounds like you are complaining about not having enough.
Meaning
To indicate a small amount or limited ability in something.
The 'de' rule
Always remember: 'un peu' + noun = 'un peu de'. 'Un peu' + adjective = 'un peu'.
Don't be negative
Avoid using 'peu' when you mean 'a little'. It sounds like you are complaining about not having enough.
Use it to be polite
When in doubt, add 'un peu' to your requests. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with 'un peu' or 'un peu de'.
Je voudrais ____ café.
Before a noun (café), you must use 'un peu de'.
Choose the correct sentence.
Which is correct?
Do not use 'de' before an adjective.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Parlez-vous français ? B: ____.
When used alone as an answer, 'un peu' is correct.
Match the situation to the best response.
Someone asks if you are hungry.
Faim is part of the expression 'avoir faim', so 'un peu' modifies the verb phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesJe voudrais ____ café.
Before a noun (café), you must use 'un peu de'.
Which is correct?
Do not use 'de' before an adjective.
A: Parlez-vous français ? B: ____.
When used alone as an answer, 'un peu' is correct.
Someone asks if you are hungry.
Faim is part of the expression 'avoir faim', so 'un peu' modifies the verb phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, 'Je marche un peu' (I walk a little).
It is neutral and works everywhere.
It acts as a partitive article, showing you are taking a portion of something.
No, never use 'de' before an adjective.
'Un petit peu' is just a bit more emphatic.
Yes, it is very common in casual texts.
Yes, it is perfect for softening your answers.
'Quelque peu' is much more formal.
No, 'un peu de' stays the same.
Yes, 'un peu plus' (a little more).
Yes, it's great for expressing mild interest.
They sound similar, but 'un peu' is two words.
Related Phrases
Un petit peu
specialized formA tiny bit
Pas du tout
contrastNot at all
Un brin
synonymA pinch/bit
Un chouïa
synonymA tiny bit
