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    Chinese Grammar

    Combining a specifier with a head using a classifier

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    Number/Demonstrative + Classifier + Noun

    Explanation

    When a specifier such as a numeral or demonstrative combines with a noun, a classifier must appear between them. The classifier categorizes the noun and is required in standard Chinese grammar. This pattern produces complete noun phrases like 一个人 (one person) or 这本书 (this book).

    Examples

    • 我想买一本新书。

      wǒ xiǎng mǎi yì běn xīn shū.

      I want to buy a new book.

    • 这个苹果多少钱?

      zhège píngguǒ duōshao qián?

      How much is this apple?

    • 她养了两只猫。

      tā yǎng le liǎng zhī māo.

      She has two cats.