noun / measure word HSK 2
Traditional 樣
appearance · shape · kind · type · sample · manner
Meaning
样 refers to appearance, manner, or type. It's extremely common in everyday speech, often appearing in compounds like 这样 (this way) and 那样 (that way). As a measure word, it indicates different kinds or types of things.
Usage
Native speakers use 样 constantly in phrases like 怎么样 (how about/how is it), 一样 (the same), and 样子 (appearance/look). It combines with demonstratives to form essential directional expressions. When used as a measure word, it counts varieties or kinds of items.
Examples
- 01你觉得这个怎么样？?What do you think of this?
- 02他们两个长得一样。.The two of them look the same.
Measure words
- 种三种样品
Common collocations
- 这样this way, like this
- 那样that way, like that
- 怎么样how about, how is it
- 一样the same
- 样子appearance, manner, look
Origin
The traditional form 樣 combines 木 (wood/tree) and 羊 (sheep), originally referring to a wooden model or pattern.