1.
on the small side; somewhat less; a smaller amount
Indicates a quantity that is slightly less than normal or standard. Often used when requesting or describing portions of food, drink, or other quantities.
ごはんは少なめでお願いします。
A smaller portion of rice, please.
塩は少なめにしたほうがいい。
You should use less salt.
今月は出費を少なめに抑えたい。
I want to keep expenses on the lower side this month.
Formed from 少ない + the suffix め (tending toward, slightly). Indicates a quantity slightly less than normal.
WORD FORMATION:
少ない (few, little) + め (suffix: -ish, somewhat). This pattern is productive:
- 多め: on the larger side (opposite)
- 大きめ: slightly larger
- 小さめ: slightly smaller
- 長め: slightly longer
- 短め: slightly shorter
COMMON USES:
- ごはん少なめ: less rice (when ordering)
- 油少なめ: less oil
- 塩少なめ: less salt
USAGE:
Very common when ordering food at restaurants. Often seen on ramen shop order forms. Can also describe quantities in general: 出費を少なめに抑える (keep expenses on the low side).