French Phrase
Oui, un peu.
Meaning
This phrase is a standard and polite way to express a moderate or small degree of something. It combines the affirmative 'oui' with the quantifier 'un peu' to indicate that a condition is partially true.
When to use
Use this when someone asks if you speak a language, if you are hungry, or if you understand a specific topic. It is a versatile response suitable for both formal and informal conversations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ouiunpeu
Oui
The basic affirmative 'yes' in French, used in almost all contexts.
Un peu
An adverbial expression of quantity. Unlike adjectives, it does not change to match the gender of a noun.
🗨In Conversation
Est-ce que tu parles français ?
Do you speak French?
Oui, un peu.
Yes, a little.
✕Common Mistakes
Oui, une petite.
Use the fixed adverbial phrase 'un peu' to mean 'a little'; 'petite' is an adjective meaning 'small' and doesn't work here.
Oui, un peu de.
Only use 'de' if a noun follows; when 'un peu' stands alone as an answer, the 'de' is dropped.
↔Alternatives
Un tout petit peu.
Just a tiny bit.
Assez, oui.
Quite a bit, yes.
Cultural Tip
In many French-speaking cultures, using 'un peu' is a sign of modesty. Even if you are fairly proficient in a skill, saying you know 'un peu' is often preferred over sounding overconfident.