个 (general measure word)

• Pinyin: gè
• Formation: Number / 这 / 那 + 个 + Noun
• Hanzi breakdown: 个 = simplified form of 個 (人 person + 固 solid)

Meaning

The measure word 个 (gè) is the most commonly used measure word in Mandarin Chinese. It is placed between a number or demonstrative and a noun to quantify or specify it.

While 个 is often called the 'default' measure word, it is not universally applicable to all nouns. Many nouns have their own specific measure words (e.g., 本 for books, 条 for long or thin objects). However, in casual speech, native speakers sometimes substitute 个 for other measure words. Beginners can safely use 个 when unsure of the correct measure word, though learning specific measure words is important for natural-sounding Chinese. Note that 个 is sometimes written as 個 in traditional Chinese.

Examples

1. 我买了三个苹果。 I bought three apples.
2. 桌子上有两个杯子。 There are two cups on the table.
3. 她有一个很好的想法。 She has a very good idea.

Usage Guide

Context: spoken, written, everyday

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 请给我两个面包。
• 这个问题我回答不了。
• 他们公司有五百个员工。

Don't Say

• 我买了三个书。(Books require the measure word 本, not 个) → 我买了三本书。
• 她养了两个猫。(Animals typically use 只, not 个) → 她养了两只猫。

Origin & History

The measure word 个 originated from the character 個, which historically referred to a single bamboo stalk. Over time, it became the most generalized measure word in Chinese.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal