句

• Pinyin: jù
• Hanzi breakdown: 句 = 勹 (wrap) + 口 (mouth) — words wrapped together forming a sentence

Meaning

A measure word for sentences or phrases. Used to count sentences, lines of text, or spoken phrases.

The standard measure word placed before 话 (words, speech) or 诗 (poetry) to count sentences or lines. Very commonly used in daily speech.

Examples

1. 老师说了一句话。 The teacher said one sentence.
2. 请你再说一句。 Please say one more sentence.
3. 这首诗有四句。 This poem has four lines.

Usage Guide

Context: language, everyday, classroom

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 我想说几句话。(I'd like to say a few words.)
• 这句话是什么意思？(What does this sentence mean?)

Don't Say

• 不要说'一句字' (Don't use 句 for individual characters — use 个 for single characters: 一个字)

Origin & History

Originally depicted words wrapped or enclosed, from 勹 (wrap) and 口 (mouth), representing a complete unit of speech.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal