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How to Say ‘A pen?’ in Simplified Chinese

一支笔吗?

yī zhī bǐ ma

[ee jruh bee ma]

💬 Usage Tip: 一支笔 shows number + measure word + noun. 支 is a common measure word for pen-like things, like 两支笔 "two pens."

Phrase Breakdown

一

yī

[ee]

one

Used to refer to a single item.

Example

我买了一支新笔。

I bought a new pen.

支

zhī

[jruh]

measure word

Used for counting items like pens.

Example

一支笔

a pen

笔

bǐ

[bee]

pen

Instrument for writing or drawing with ink.

Example

这支笔很好用。

This pen is easy to use.

吗

ma

[ma]

question particle

Used to form a yes–no question.

Example

这支笔是你的吗?

Is this pen yours?

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