Distinguishing 一点儿 (yìdiǎnr) and 有点儿 (yǒudiǎnr)

Pattern

• 有点儿 + Adjective
• Adjective + 一点儿
• Verb + 一点儿 + Noun

Usage

• Both 一点儿 (yìdiǎnr) and 有点儿 (yǒudiǎnr) translate as “a little” or “a bit”, but their grammatical positions and emotive nuances differ greatly.
• 有点儿 (yǒudiǎnr) is placed BEFORE an adjective and typically conveys a slight degree accompanied by negative, dissatisfied, or unwanted feelings.
• For example: 这件衣服有点儿贵 ('This piece of clothing is a bit expensive' — implying the speaker finds it undesirable).
• In contrast, 一点儿 (yìdiǎnr) is placed AFTER an adjective to indicate a minor difference in comparison, or to suggest a slight adjustment.
• For example: 这件衣服便宜一点儿

Examples

1. 1

   今天有点儿冷。

   Jīntiān yǒudiǎnr lěng.

   It is a bit cold today.

2. 2

   这个菜有点儿辣。

   Zhège cài yǒudiǎnr là.

   This dish is a bit spicy.

3. 3

   请你说慢一点儿。

   Qǐng nǐ shuō màn yìdiǎnr.

   Please speak a little slower.

4. 4

   我想买一点儿水果。