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    Chinese Grammar

    Using the classifier 部 (bù) for films and literary works

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    Number/Demonstrative + 部 + Noun (film/work)

    Explanation

    部 (bù) is the measure word used when counting or specifying movies, novels, plays, and other major creative works. In Chinese, you must place a classifier between a number or demonstrative and a noun, and 部 is the correct choice for works of film and literature.

    Examples

    • 这部电影真的太好看了。

      Zhè bù diànyǐng zhēn de tài hǎokàn le.

      This movie is really amazing.

    • 他去年写了两部小说。

      Tā qùnián xiě le liǎng bù xiǎoshuō.

      He wrote two novels last year.

    • 我昨晚看了一部纪录片，特别有意思。

      Wǒ zuówǎn kàn le yī bù jìlùpiàn, tèbié yǒu yìsi.

      I watched a documentary last night; it was really interesting.

    Using the classifier 部 (bù) for films and literary works | Chinese Grammar