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    Chinese Grammar

    Using the classifier 眼 (yǎn) for glances

    Numbers & Quantity

    Structure

    看 + 了 + Number + 眼

    Explanation

    眼 (yǎn) is a measure word (classifier) used to count glances or looks. It appears in the common expression 看了一眼 (kàn le yī yǎn, "took a glance"), indicating a quick, brief look at something.

    Examples

    • 他朝我看了一眼，什么也没说。

      tā cháo wǒ kàn le yī yǎn, shénme yě méi shuō.

      He glanced at me and said nothing.

    • 我只瞟了一眼，就认出他来了。

      wǒ zhǐ piǎo le yī yǎn, jiù rèn chū tā lái le.

      I only took a quick glance and recognized him right away.

    • 她偷偷看了他一眼，脸红了。

      tā tōutōu kàn le tā yī yǎn, liǎn hóng le.

      She sneaked a glance at him and blushed.

    Often Confused With

    Using the classifier 眼 (yǎn) for glances | Chinese Grammar