架

• Pinyin: jià
• Hanzi breakdown: 架 = 加 (to add, phonetic) + 木 (wood), meaning a wooden frame or support structure

Meaning

Measure word for machines and aircraft; frame; shelf. Also a verb meaning to set up or erect a structure.

As a measure word, 架 is used for aircraft, pianos, cameras, and other large machines or equipment. As a noun, it means a frame, rack, or shelf. As a verb, it can mean to put up, erect, or set up. Common collocations include 书架 (bookshelf), 一架飞机 (one airplane), and 架桥 (to build a bridge).

Examples

1. 机场上停着三架飞机。 Three airplanes are parked at the airport.
2. 请把这些书放在书架上。 Please put these books on the bookshelf.
3. 他们在河上架了一座桥。 They built a bridge over the river.

Usage Guide

Context: transport, furniture, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 天上飞过了一架直升机。(A helicopter flew across the sky.)
• 这个架子可以放很多东西。(This shelf can hold many things.)

Don't Say

• 一架汽车停在路边。(Don't use 架 for cars — use 辆. 架 is for aircraft, pianos, and large machines)

Origin & History

Compound of 加 (to add, phonetic) and 木 (wood). Originally referred to a wooden frame or rack used to hold things up.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal