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zhī
char./m. single, the only; measure word for birds and some animals, for one of certain paired things, for certain containers, or small boats
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7
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This is also a measure word for a watch, or items that come in pairs like earrings.
TrainChineseJake
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Among the measure words for animals, 只 is probably most widely used one. It can be used on almost all animals, big, small, birds or reptiles, etc. For those animals who have specific measure words for themselves, 只 can sometimes also be used. Examples: 虎 (hu3, tiger), 狗 (gou3, dog), 牛 (niu2, ox)
If you are interested in learning other measure words for animals, please also check out the following ones: 条(tiao2), 匹 (pi3), 头 (tou2)
lisaC
3
1
Other than animals, 只 can also be used on certain body parts, or some common objects (usually the ones which come in pairs):
- 手 (shou3, hand),眼 (yan3, eye),耳朵 (er3duo5, ear),脚 (jiao3, foot)
- 手套 (shou3tao4, glove),袜子 (wa4zi5, sock), 箱子 (xiang4zi5, suitcase),盒子 (he2zi5, box)
lisaC
1
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Measure word also for cats
TrainChineseJake
0
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What other words can I use in place of 只 (zhǐ)?
个学生
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0
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Is 只 (zhǐ) more formal or informal in different contexts?
个学生
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