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    Chinese Grammar

    Referring to 'cent' as a unit with 美分 (měifēn)

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    Number + 美分

    Explanation

    The measure word 美分 (měifēn) means "cent," specifically referring to one hundredth of a US dollar. It is used when discussing American currency in Chinese. It is the standard term for the US cent in both spoken and written Chinese.

    Examples

    • 这杯咖啡只要九十九美分。

      zhè bēi kāfēi zhǐyào jiǔshíjiǔ měifēn.

      This cup of coffee only costs ninety-nine cents.

    • 汽油价格又涨了三美分。

      qìyóu jiàgé yòu zhǎng le sān měifēn.

      The price of gasoline went up another three cents.

    • 小时候爷爷给过我一枚一美分的硬币，我一直留着。

      xiǎoshíhou yéye gěi guò wǒ yì méi yì měifēn de yìngbì, wǒ yìzhí liú zhe.

      When I was little, my grandfather gave me a one-cent coin, and I've kept it ever since.

    Often Confused With

    Referring to 'cent' as a unit with 美分 (měifēn) | Chinese Grammar