匹

• Pinyin: pǐ
• Hanzi breakdown: 匹 = originally a pictograph of a roll of cloth

Meaning

Measure word for horses and bolts of cloth. Also used in comparisons.

Primarily used for horses (一匹马), but also for cloth by the bolt, and in the phrase 匹配 (to match). The comparison idiom 匹夫 (ordinary man) and 匹敌 (to match/rival) contain this character. An elegant, classical measure word.

Examples

1. 农场里养着好几匹骏马。 The farm raises several fine horses.
2. 这匹白马跑得特别快。 This white horse runs particularly fast.
3. 她买了一匹丝绸准备做旗袍。 She bought a bolt of silk to make a cheongsam.

Usage Guide

Context: animals, textiles, classical

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他骑着一匹黑马。(He was riding a black horse.)
• 这匹布料质量不错。(This bolt of fabric is good quality.)

Don't Say

• 一匹狗 (Use 只 or 条 for dogs — 匹 is specifically for horses)

Origin & History

Originally depicted a roll of cloth, later extended to horses and matching/pairing.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal