件

• Pinyin: jiàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 件 = 亻(person radical) + 牛 (ox); originally meant to divide or separate.

Meaning

Measure word for items, matters, or pieces of clothing. Used to count individual things or events.

One of the most common measure words in Chinese. Used for clothing (一件衣服), luggage (一件行李), matters (一件事), and gifts (一件礼物). Very versatile and frequently encountered.

Examples

1. 我买了一件新衣服。 I bought a new piece of clothing.
2. 他跟我说了一件事。 He told me about something.
3. 这件礼物是给你的。 This gift is for you.

Usage Guide

Context: shopping, everyday, descriptions

Tone: practical

Do Say

• 这件衣服多少钱？(How much is this piece of clothing?)
• 有一件事我要告诉你。(There's something I need to tell you.)

Don't Say

• 不要用件来数所有东西 (Don't use 件 for everything — it is mainly for clothing, matters, and discrete items; use 个 for general objects, 条 for pants, etc.)

Origin & History

Originally referred to dividing or separating items. Over time it became a standard measure word for individual items and matters.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal