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    Chinese Grammar

    Counting sounds with 声 (shēng)

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    Number + 声 + Sound Description

    Explanation

    声 (shēng) is a measure word used to count individual sounds, calls, or utterances. It is placed between a number and the description of the sound to quantify audible events.

    Examples

    • 远处传来两声枪响，大家都吓了一跳。

      Yuǎnchù chuán lái liǎng shēng qiāng xiǎng, dàjiā dōu xià le yí tiào.

      Two gunshots came from the distance, and everyone was startled.

    • 她大喊了一声，所有人都回头看她。

      Tā dà hǎn le yì shēng, suǒyǒu rén dōu huítóu kàn tā.

      She shouted loudly, and everyone turned to look at her.

    • 公鸡叫了几声，天就亮了。

      Gōngjī jiào le jǐ shēng, tiān jiù liàng le.

      The rooster crowed a few times, and the sky became light.

    Counting sounds with 声 (shēng) | Chinese Grammar