measure word / verb / noun HSK 3
(measure word for long thin objects) · to support · to prop up · branch
Meaning
支 is primarily used as a measure word for long, thin, stick-like objects such as pens, cigarettes, arrows, and songs. As a verb, it means to support or prop up something. It can also function as a noun meaning branch or offshoot.
Usage
As a measure word, 支 is extremely common in everyday speech for counting items like pens (一支笔), cigarettes (一支烟), or songs (一支歌). The verb usage meaning 'to support' appears in formal contexts and compounds. Native speakers automatically use 支 when counting long thin objects without thinking about it.
Examples
- 01请给我一支铅笔。.Please give me a pencil.
- 02他抽了一支烟就走了。.He smoked a cigarette and then left.
Common collocations
- 一支笔a pen
- 一支烟a cigarette
- 一支歌a song
- 一支队伍a team/troop
Origin
The character 支 originally depicted a hand holding up a bamboo branch, combining the concept of support with the image of a branch. This dual meaning persists in modern usage.