measure word / noun HSK 3
Traditional 層
layer · floor (of a building) · level · tier
Meaning
层 refers to layers, levels, or stories in both literal and abstract senses. Most commonly, it's used as a measure word for floors of buildings or layers of materials. It can also function as a noun meaning 'layer' or 'level' in contexts like social hierarchy, atmosphere layers, or cake layers.
Usage
When counting building floors, 层 follows the number (e.g., 三层 'third floor'). It's the standard measure word for anything arranged in horizontal strata. In compounds like 层次 (gradation) or 高层 (high-level), it functions as a bound morpheme meaning 'level' or 'tier'.
Examples
- 01我的办公室在五层。.My office is on the fifth floor.
- 02这块蛋糕有三层奶油。.This cake has three layers of cream.
Measure words
- 个这个蛋糕有三个层
Common collocations
- 第一层first floor
- 上层upper level
- 底层ground floor, bottom layer
- 一层一层layer by layer
Origin
The traditional form 層 shows the 尸 radical (roof/building) with 曾 (phonetic component), reflecting its original meaning related to building structures and their vertical arrangement.