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    Chinese Grammar

    Referring to 'book' or 'document' with 书 (shū)

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    (Modifier +) 书

    Explanation

    The noun 书 (shū) most commonly means "book," but in formal and legal contexts it can mean "document" or "written agreement." In the compound 议定书 (protocol), 书 refers to a formal written document. It is one of the most fundamental and versatile nouns in Chinese.

    Examples

    • 我最近在看一本关于中国历史的书。

      Wǒ zuìjìn zài kàn yī běn guānyú Zhōngguó lìshǐ de shū.

      I've been reading a book about Chinese history recently.

    • 这份议定书是两国合作的重要文件。

      Zhè fèn yìdìngshū shì liǎng guó hézuò de zhòngyào wénjiàn.

      This protocol is an important document for bilateral cooperation.

    • 他每个月都会读好几本书。

      Tā měi gè yuè dōu huì dú hǎo jǐ běn shū.

      He reads several books every month.

    Referring to 'book' or 'document' with 书 (shū) | Chinese Grammar