HSK 4
概数表示法3：数词+来+量词
gài shù biǎo shì fǎ 3 ： shù cí + lái + liàng cí
Expressing approximate numbers (part 3): Number + 来 + Measure word
Explanation
This is a way of expressing an approximate number (概数 gàishù — an approximate, imprecise figure) by inserting 来 lái between the numeral and the measure word (a word indicating a counting unit, like "cái, con, quyển" in Vietnamese).
numeral + 来 lái + measure word (e.g. 十来本 = about ten volumes). The numeral is usually a round ten or round hundred (十, 五十, 一百...).
when you want to state an approximate, rough quantity rather than an exact count; very common in everyday conversation.
来 lái here does not mean "to come" as usual; it only indicates "about, approximately".
placing 来 in the wrong position (it must go BETWEEN the numeral and the measure word, not at the end); or using it with non-round odd numbers — this pattern usually goes with round tens/round hundreds.
Examples
about ten volumes, about fifty catties, about a hundred vehicles
Learn “概数表示法3：数词+来+量词” effectively
The grammar point “概数表示法3：数词+来+量词” (Expressing approximate numbers (part 3): Number + 来 + Measure word) is one of the key structures at HSK 4. 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.
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