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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 部分 (bùfen) as a classifier for parts

    Numbers & Quantity
    Topic & Focus

    Structure

    Number + 部分 + (的 + Noun)

    Explanation

    The word 部分 (bùfen) means 'part' or 'portion' and is used to refer to a section or component of a whole. When preceded by the number 一 (one), the phrase 一部分 means 'a part of.' It is commonly used in constructions like 一部分人 (some people) or with 的 to indicate belonging.

    Examples

    • 只有一部分学生通过了考试。

      Zhǐyǒu yī bùfèn xuéshēng tōngguò le kǎoshì.

      Only some of the students passed the exam.

    • 这笔钱的一部分用来交房租。

      Zhè bǐ qián de yī bùfèn yòng lái jiāo fángzū.

      Part of this money is used to pay rent.

    • 大部分时间我都在家工作。

      Dà bùfèn shíjiān wǒ dōu zài jiā gōngzuò.

      I work from home most of the time.

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    Using 部分 (bùfen) as a classifier for parts | Chinese Grammar