to count

JLPT N4 13 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Meaning

The character (shǔ) primarily means "to count" or "to enumerate." It is often used when referring to the act of counting objects, money, or other quantities. Besides the verb form, can also relate to numbers or quantities in a more abstract sense, especially when pronounced as shù, which is a different tone but the same character.

Common Collocations

  • (shǔ yī shǔ): to count briefly or roughly
  • (shǔ qián): to count money
  • 数字 (shùzì): numbers, digits
  • 数量 (shùliàng): quantity

These collocations show the flexibility of in both concrete counting and abstract numerical contexts.

Usage Notes

When using as a verb (shǔ), it usually appears before the object being counted. It is a straightforward verb without complex grammar patterns. However, be careful not to confuse it with as a noun or adjective related to numbers (shù), which is more common in technical or formal contexts.

Common Confusion

The character has two main pronunciations with different meanings: shǔ (to count) and shù (number, quantity). Learners should pay attention to the tone and context to distinguish them. For example, (shǔ qián) means "to count money," while 数字 (shùzì) means "numbers."

Example Sentences

Please help me count how many apples there are.

The numerical calculation of this problem is very complex.

He counted his money and found it was not enough to buy that book.