measure word / noun HSK 2
Traditional 條
strip · item · article · measure word for long, narrow objects
Meaning
条 is primarily used as a measure word (classifier) for long, thin, or narrow objects like roads, rivers, fish, pants, and rules. It can also function as a noun meaning 'strip' or 'article/item' in contexts like written clauses or items in a list.
Usage
This is one of the most common measure words in Mandarin. Native speakers use it for roads (一条路), fish (一条鱼), pants (一条裤子), rivers (一条河), news items (一条新闻), and abstract items like rules or regulations (一条规定). It emphasizes the long or linear quality of the object.
Examples
- 01这条街上有很多商店。.There are many shops on this street.
- 02我买了三条鱼。.I bought three fish.
Common collocations
- 一条路a road
- 一条鱼a fish
- 一条裤子a pair of pants
- 一条河a river
Origin
The traditional form 條 depicts a tree (木) with a small branch or twig, representing something long and thin extending from a source.