样

• Pinyin: yàng
• Hanzi breakdown: 样 = 木 (wood) + 羊 (sheep, phonetic), originally meaning pattern or model

Meaning

Type; kind; manner; appearance. Used as a noun or measure word for kinds or types.

Very versatile: as a noun (样子 appearance, 模样 looks), as a measure word (一样东西 one thing, 两样菜 two dishes). Common phrases: 这样 (this way), 那样 (that way), 怎样 (how), 各式各样 (all kinds). Also in comparisons: 一样 (the same).

Examples

1. 菜单上有好几样新菜。 There are several new dishes on the menu.
2. 他说话的样子让我想起了我爸爸。 The way he talks reminds me of my dad.
3. 这两件衣服的款式差不多，就是颜色不一样。 These two pieces of clothing have similar styles, just different colors.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, descriptions

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 来两样小菜。(Bring two side dishes.)
• 你怎么这样说话？(How can you talk like that?)

Don't Say

• 两样的书 — 应说'两本书'，样作为量词用于种类而非数量

Origin & History

Originally meant pattern or model. Extended to mean type, manner, or appearance.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal