一个 (yīgè) is a common measure word in Mandarin, meaning 'one' or 'a'. It is often used to quantify nouns and is essential for forming basic sentences, especially in everyday contexts like counting objects or referring to a single item. This term is foundational for beginners as it introduces the concept of classifiers in Mandarin.
HSK 1, 16 strokes, Hard
yīgè(yi2ge4) T1
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
May 27, 2026
一个yīgè(yi2ge4)
一个 (yīgè) is a common measure word in Mandarin, meaning 'one' or 'a'. It is often used to quantify nouns and is essential for forming basic sentences, especially in everyday contexts like counting objects or referring to a single item. This term is foundational for beginners as it introduces the concept of classifiers in Mandarin.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, counting and quantifying items is integral, especially in markets where people often negotiate based on the quantity of goods. Using 一个 correctly shows respect for the language structure and enhances communication, particularly in shopping scenarios.
Memory Tip
Imagine you have 'one' apple in your hand and you are holding it up high. The character '个' resembles a person reaching for it, while '一' stands for the number one. Together, they symbolize you having 'one' of something, making it easier to remember the pronunciation 'yī' as you think of 'one' apple.
About 一个
一个Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L1ElementaryHSKKL1CEFRA1
Podcast: 一个
Podcast: 一个
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 一个
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine you have 'one' apple in your hand and you are holding it up high. The character '个' resembles a person reaching for it, while '一' stands for the number one. Together, they symbolize you having 'one' of something, making it easier to remember the pronunciation 'yī' as you think of 'one' apple.
Usage Notes
When using 一个, it is important to remember that it is typically used with countable nouns. Learners often mistakenly drop the measure word when it is required, such as saying '我有苹果' (I have apples) instead of '我有一个苹果' (I have one apple). This usage is informal, and clarity is crucial in both spoken and written contexts.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 1 word, focus on using 一个 in simple sentences to describe quantities. Connecting it with other basic vocabulary, such as numbers and common nouns, will help reinforce your understanding. Practice forming phrases like '一个人' (one person) or '一个书' (one book) to solidify its usage.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, counting and quantifying items is integral, especially in markets where people often negotiate based on the quantity of goods. Using 一个 correctly shows respect for the language structure and enhances communication, particularly in shopping scenarios.
Common Mistakes
Learners often forget to use 一个 when necessary, leading to incomplete sentences, such as '我有苹果' instead of '我有一个苹果'. Also, some may use it with uncountable nouns, which is incorrect, exemplified by saying '我有一个水' instead of '我有水'.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 一个
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 一个 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 一个 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 一个
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, counting and quantifying items is integral, especially in markets where people often negotiate based on the quantity of goods. Using 一个 correctly shows respect for the language structure and enhances communication, particularly in shopping scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions about 一个
You should use 一个 when referring to countable nouns in Mandarin, as it functions as a measure word.
No, 一个 is specifically used with countable nouns. For non-countable nouns, different measure words or structures are needed.
Yes, 一个 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of the appropriate measure word for the noun.
