Definitions
(adverb)
too (much); very; extremely
(adjective)
highest; greatest; supreme
Etymology
Addition of a dot to 大 (dà; big) to mean "very" or "extremely".
About
The character 太, identical in both traditional and simplified systems, structurally consists of 大 (meaning "big") with an added dot 丶. This additional mark historically functioned as a distinguishing indicator, creating a new graph derived from the base meaning of "big" to express an intensified or superlative sense. Its earliest meanings centered on concepts of excess or going beyond limits, as seen in words like 太甚 (excessive). Over time, this notion of surpassing a norm softened and generalized into an adverb meaning "very" or "extremely", while also developing specific honorific and seniority applications, such as in 太后 (empress dowager) and 太老師 (grand teacher), where it denotes the highest level.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
今天天气太热了。
她是我的太太。
太阳从东边升起。
太空探索很有趣。
这里的生活很太平。
他太喜欢打篮球了。
这个问题太复杂了，我无法解决。
虽然太贵，但是质量很好。