张 (zhāng) - For Flat Objects

In English, we usually just say "one table" or "two tickets." Chinese works differently. You must place a measure word between the number and the noun. This word usually describes the shape or type of the object. 张 originally meant to "stretch out" a bow. Because of this, it is used for things that are spread out or flat. It acts like a label that says, "Hey, the thing I am talking about has a flat surface!" It helps the listener visualize the object before you even name it. It is like a mental shortcut for your brain. Using it correctly shows you understand the logic of the language.

1. 1The pattern is very consistent. You just need to follow these three simple steps:
2. 2Start with a number (like 一, 两, or 三).
3. 3Add the measure word 张 (zhāng).
4. 4Finish with the flat noun.
5. 5Example: 一张纸 (yī zhāng zhǐ) - One piece of paper.
6. 6Example: 两张票 (liǎng zhāng piào) - Two tickets.
7. 7Note: Always use 两 (liǎng) instead of 二 (èr) when counting objects with 张!

You should reach for 张 whenever you see something flat and thin. The most common category is paper-based items. This includes 纸 (paper), 票 (tickets), and 照片 (photos). If you are at a cinema, you will ask for 两张票. If you are printing a resume for a job interview, you have 一张简历.

It also applies to furniture with large, flat surfaces. Think of 桌子 (tables) and 床 (beds). Even though a bed is big and heavy, its main feature is the flat top.

Surprisingly, it is also used for certain body parts. Your 脸 (face) and 嘴 (mouth) are considered flat surfaces in Chinese grammar. If you want to say someone has a small face, you talk about their 一张小脸. It is a very versatile word!

Do not use 张 for things that are not primarily flat. Even if a book is made of paper, do not use 张. Books have depth and volume, so they use 本 (běn).

Avoid using it for long, thin, flexible things like ropes or paths. Those usually take 条 (tiáo).

Also, do not use it for round, 3D objects like apples or balls. Those prefer the general measure word 个 (ge).

Finally, do not use it for handheld objects with handles, like umbrellas or chairs. Those usually take 把 (bǎ). A table is 张, but the chair next to it is 把. Think of it like a grammar traffic light; stop and check the shape first!

The biggest mistake is using 个 (ge) for everything. While people will understand you, it sounds very basic. It is like saying "one stuff of paper" in English.

Another common slip-up is using 二 (èr) instead of 两 (liǎng). Remember, when you are counting things, 两 is the golden rule. Say 两张纸, never 二张纸.

Some people also try to use 张 for a whole book. Remember, 张 is for a single sheet, not a collection of sheets bound together. Yes, even native speakers mess this up when they are in a rush, but you should aim for accuracy!

How does 张 compare to 个? 个 is the "universal" measure word. You can use it when you forget the specific one. However, 张 is much more descriptive.

Compare 张 to 本 (běn). Use 张 for a single map, but 本 for an atlas.

Compare 张 to 把 (bǎ). Use 张 for the dining table because it is a flat surface. Use 把 for the chair because you can grab the back of it.

Think of 张 as the "pancake" rule. If it is flat and wide like a pancake, 张 is likely your best bet. It is all about the physical geometry of the object.