HSK 3
动量词：顿、口、眼
dòng liàng cí ： dùn 、 kǒu 、 yǎn
Verbal measure words: 顿, 口, 眼
Explanation
This is a group of verbal measure words (measure words - words indicating a counting unit, like "cái, con, quyển" in Vietnamese - but specifically used to count the NUMBER OF TIMES of an action). 顿 (dùn), 口 (kǒu), 眼 (yǎn) each pair with its own type of action.
Verb + 一 (yī, one) / number + 顿/口/眼. 顿 (dùn) counts meals or a bout of scolding/beating (吃一顿 chī yī dùn - eat a meal; 批评一顿 pīpíng yī dùn - give a scolding). 口 (kǒu) counts mouthfuls, bites (喝一口 hē yī kǒu - take a sip). 眼 (yǎn) counts glances (看一眼 kàn yī yǎn - take a look).
when you want to say how many times an action happens, or with a small amount (a sip, a glance).
mixing up these three words, e.g. saying 喝一顿 or 看一口 is wrong. Each verb pairs only with one specific verbal measure word.
Examples
give a scolding, take a sip, take a look
Learn “动量词：顿、口、眼” effectively
The grammar point “动量词：顿、口、眼” (Verbal measure words: 顿, 口, 眼) is one of the key structures at HSK 3. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.