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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'head' as a classifier with 头 (tóu)

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    Number + 头 + Noun

    Explanation

    The classifier 头 (tóu) is used as a measure word primarily for livestock and certain large animals, such as cows, pigs, and donkeys. While 头 also means 'head' as a noun, its function as a classifier is distinct. It is placed between a number or demonstrative and the noun it modifies.

    Examples

    • 村里一共养了三十头牛。

      Cūn lǐ yígòng yǎng le sānshí tóu niú.

      The village has raised a total of thirty cattle.

    • 他家新买了两头小猪。

      Tā jiā xīn mǎi le liǎng tóu xiǎo zhū.

      His family just bought two piglets.

    • 草原上有一头大象在喝水。

      Cǎoyuán shàng yǒu yì tóu dàxiàng zài hē shuǐ.

      There is an elephant drinking water on the grassland.

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    Expressing 'head' as a classifier with 头 (tóu) | Chinese Grammar