HSK 2Measure Words
Common Measure Words
Measure words are required between numbers/demonstratives and nouns.
Pattern
Number/这/那 + Measure Word + Noun
Explanation
Chinese requires a measure word between a number and a noun. 个 is the most common and default measure word. Others: 本 (books), 件 (clothing/matters), 杯 (cups), 只 (animals).
You cannot say "三书" — it must be "三本书". 这/那 also require measure words: "这本书" not "这书".
Examples
我有两只猫。
Wǒ yǒu liǎng zhī māo.
I have two cats.
请给我一杯水。
Qǐng gěi wǒ yì bēi shuǐ.
Please give me a glass of water.
这件事很重要。
Zhè jiàn shì hěn zhòngyào.
This matter is very important.
Common Mistakes
Wrong
我有两猫。
Correct
我有两只猫。
Measure word 只 is needed between number and noun.
Related Grammar
Practice this grammar with AI
Use this grammar pattern in a real conversation with our AI tutor.
Start Practicing