一枚
This is a counter used for flat, thin objects like paper or stamps.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! Let's learn a new Japanese word: 一枚 (ichi mai). This word helps you count things that are flat, like a piece of paper or a stamp. 'Ichi' means 'one,' and 'mai' is the special word for counting these flat things. So, if you have one piece of paper, you say 一枚 (ichi mai). It's easy!
When you want to count flat items in Japanese, like a sheet of paper, a postcard, or a coin, you use the counter 枚 (mai). When you want to say 'one' of these items, you put 'ichi' (one) before 'mai'. So, 一枚 (ichi mai) means 'one flat object.' For example, you might ask for 一枚 (ichi mai) of paper at a shop.
The Japanese numeral 一枚 (ichi mai) is essential for counting flat, thin objects. This includes items such as paper, stamps, photographs, and coins. The structure is simple: 'ichi' signifies 'one,' and 'mai' is the specific counter for these types of items. Understanding when to use 'mai' is key to speaking naturally. For instance, if you need to refer to a single photograph, you would say 一枚 (ichi mai) no shashin.
Mastering Japanese counters like 一枚 (ichi mai) significantly enhances fluency. 'Mai' is exclusively used for flat, thin items, distinguishing it from counters for long objects or general items. This specificity allows for precise communication. For example, differentiating between 'one sheet of paper' (一枚 kami) and 'one long scroll' (which would use a different counter) is crucial. Recognizing contexts where 'mai' is appropriate, such as with documents or currency, is a hallmark of intermediate proficiency.
The counter 枚 (mai), as seen in 一枚 (ichi mai), exemplifies the nuanced system of Japanese numeration. Its application is strictly limited to objects possessing a distinct flatness and thinness, such as paper, fabric, or plates. This contrasts sharply with counters for three-dimensional objects or abstract concepts. Advanced learners will appreciate how the choice of counter, like 'mai,' imbues the utterance with specific visual information about the object being counted, reflecting a deeper cognitive categorization inherent in the language.
At the C2 level, understanding 一枚 (ichi mai) extends beyond mere grammatical function. It involves appreciating the cultural significance embedded within the counter system. The character 枚, historically linked to processed wood, highlights a tangible connection between nature and human artifacts. Furthermore, its use in idiomatic expressions like '一枚噛む' (to get involved) demonstrates the semantic richness that counters can acquire, moving beyond literal counting to metaphorical participation. Analyzing such nuances reveals the intricate relationship between form, function, and cultural context in the Japanese language.
Word in 30 Seconds
- 一枚 (ichi mai) is a Japanese numeral counter.
- It's used for flat, thin objects like paper, stamps, photos, and coins.
- The structure is typically Number + Counter.
- It appears in useful idioms like 一枚看板 (star attraction).
Hey there! Let's dive into the Japanese numeral '一枚' (ichi mai). It's super useful when you're talking about counting things that are flat and thin. Think of it like a special tool in your Japanese language toolbox, specifically for items like a piece of paper, a postcard, a stamp, or even a coin. When you want to say 'one sheet of paper' or 'one stamp,' '一枚' is exactly what you need!
The 'ichi' part means 'one,' and 'mai' is the actual counter. It's fascinating how Japanese has these specific counters for different shapes and types of objects, right? This helps make the language very precise. So, next time you see a flat object you want to count in Japanese, remember 'mai'!
The counter 'mai' (枚) has a pretty interesting origin story that connects it to its meaning of 'flat object.' The character itself is composed of 'tree' (木) and 'each' (每). Imagine a tree being cut down and then its wood being processed into flat planks or sheets. This visual connection likely led to the character being used for flat items.
Historically, the use of specific counters in Japanese evolved over centuries, influenced by Chinese classifiers. The character 枚 became standardized as the go-to counter for flat, thin things. Before such formalization, people might have used more descriptive phrases, but the efficiency of a dedicated counter like 'mai' made it indispensable. It’s a great example of how language adapts to describe the world around us more effectively, categorizing objects based on their physical characteristics.
You'll find '一枚' used in everyday situations when counting flat items. Common collocations include: '紙一枚' (kami ichi mai - one sheet of paper), '切手一枚' (kitte ichi mai - one stamp), '写真一枚' (shashin ichi mai - one photograph), and 'コイン一枚' (koin ichi mai - one coin). It's important to note that 'mai' is used for singular counts. When you need to count multiple items, the number changes, but 'mai' remains the counter.
In terms of formality, '一枚' is quite neutral and can be used in most contexts, from casual conversations with friends to more formal business settings when discussing documents. It's not slang, nor is it overly academic. Think of it as your standard, reliable counter for flat things. You'll hear it frequently in shops, offices, and homes across Japan.
While '一枚' itself is a straightforward counter, the character '枚' can appear in more idiomatic expressions, often related to paper or documents. Here are a few:
- 一枚看板 (ichi mai kanban): This literally means 'one sign board,' but it's used figuratively to describe someone who is the sole attraction or main draw of a place, like the star performer. Example: 彼はこの劇場の一枚看板だ。(Kare wa kono gekijou no ichi mai kanban da. - He is the main attraction of this theater.)
- 一枚の写真 (ichi mai no shashin): Though not strictly an idiom, this phrase, meaning 'a single photograph,' often carries emotional weight, implying a cherished memory or a significant moment captured. Example: 祖母から一枚の写真をもらった。(Sobo kara ichi mai no shashin wo moratta. - I received a photograph from my grandmother.)
- 一枚噛む (ichi mai kamu): This idiom means 'to get involved in something,' 'to have a hand in something,' or 'to play a part.' It suggests participation, often in a business deal or a project. Example: そのプロジェクトに私も一枚噛んだ。(Sono purojekuto ni watashi mo ichi mai kanda. - I also played a part in that project.)
- 一枚岩 (ichi mai iwa): Literally 'one solid rock,' this term signifies something that is unified, solid, and unshakeable, often used to describe a group or opinion that is in complete agreement. Example: 彼らの意見は一枚岩だ。(Karera no iken wa ichi mai iwa da. - Their opinions are completely unified.)
The numeral '一枚' is composed of 'ichi' (one) and 'mai' (the counter for flat objects). When combined, it's pronounced 'ichi mai'. The 'i' sounds are short and crisp. In terms of grammar, 'mai' is a suffix that attaches to the number. For example, 'ni mai' (two sheets), 'san mai' (three sheets), and so on. The number changes, but 'mai' stays consistent for flat items.
There isn't a plural form for 'mai' itself, as the number preceding it indicates plurality. For instance, 'ni mai' already means 'two sheets.' Articles like 'a' or 'the' don't apply in the same way as in English; the context and the number usually suffice. For pronunciation, pay attention to the distinct 'i' sounds in 'ichi' and 'mai'. Avoid merging them into one syllable. Rhyming words are difficult to list as 'mai' is a specific counter sound, but words ending in '-ai' might offer a similar vowel sound, though not a true rhyme in the English sense.
Fun Fact
The character 枚 combines 'tree' (木) and 'every' (每), possibly evoking the image of a tree being processed into flat boards.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'itchy my', with the 'itchy' part said quickly and the 'my' part clear.
Similar to UK, 'itchy my', with clear separation of the two syllables.
Common Errors
- Merging 'ichi' and 'mai' into one sound.
- Pronouncing 'i' as a long vowel in 'ichi'.
- Incorrect stress pattern, putting too much emphasis on 'mai'.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to recognize, but understanding context is key.
Straightforward to use in basic sentences.
Easy to pronounce and use in common phrases.
Commonly heard, easy to identify.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Japanese Counters (助数詞 - Josūshi)
Counters are used after numbers to specify the type of object being counted.
Noun + Particle + Number + Counter
紙を一枚ください (Kami o ichimai kudasai - Please give me one sheet of paper).
Using Ordinal Numbers with Counters
一枚目 (ichimai me - the first one [flat object])
Examples by Level
紙一枚ください。
paper one-flat-object please.
'kudasai' means please.
切手一枚ありますか？
stamp one-flat-object have?
'arimasu ka' asks 'do you have?'
写真一枚見せて。
photo one-flat-object show.
'Mite' is the imperative form of 'to see'.
これ、一枚です。
this, one-flat-object is.
'desu' is the polite copula 'is/am/are'.
コイン一枚、ありがとう。
coin one-flat-object, thank you.
Simple expression of gratitude.
地図一枚、お願いします。
map one-flat-object, please.
'Onegaishimasu' is another polite way to say 'please'.
このカード一枚ください。
this card one-flat-object please.
'Kono' means 'this'.
絵一枚、描きました。
picture one-flat-object drew.
'Egaki mashita' means 'drew'.
すみません、紙を一枚いただけますか？
Excuse me, paper (object) one-flat-object can I receive?
'itadakemasu ka' is a polite way to ask for something.
この写真、約一枚の価値があります。
This photo, about one-flat-object's value exists.
'Kachi ga arimasu' means 'has value'.
切手は一枚いくらですか？
Stamp is one-flat-object how much?
'Ikura desu ka' asks 'how much is it?'
彼女はいつも一枚の絵を描いている。
She always one-flat-object's picture is drawing.
Present continuous tense.
この地図は一枚で十分です。
This map is one-flat-object is enough.
'Juubun desu' means 'is enough'.
一枚の葉っぱが風に舞っていた。
One-flat-object's leaf in wind was dancing.
Describing a natural scene.
新しいアイデアを一枚提案します。
New idea (object) one-flat-object will propose.
'Teian shimasu' means 'to propose'.
この書類は一枚だけです。
This document is one-flat-object only.
'Dake' means 'only'.
この資料は全部で何枚ありますか？
This material in total how many-flat-object are there?
Asking for the total number of pages/sheets.
彼は一枚のコインを大切に持っていた。
He one-flat-object's coin carefully was holding.
Expressing care or value.
一枚の約束を破ってしまった。
One-flat-object's promise broke.
Figurative use, referring to a promise possibly written on paper.
そのポスターは壁に一枚だけ貼ってあった。
That poster on wall one-flat-object only was stuck.
Emphasizing singularity.
一枚の葉書で近況を知らせます。
One-flat-object's postcard with current situation will inform.
Common way to share news briefly.
この絵は一枚の傑作だと言えるでしょう。
This painting is one-flat-object's masterpiece can say.
Expressing a strong opinion or evaluation.
一枚の布から服を作りました。
One-flat-object's cloth from clothes made.
Describing the creation process.
彼は一枚の切手を集めるのが趣味だ。
He one-flat-object's stamp collecting is hobby.
Describing a hobby or interest.
この契約書は全部で十枚ありますが、特に一枚目と二枚目が重要です。
This contract document in total ten-flat-object exist, but especially first-flat-object and second-flat-object are important.
Using ordinal numbers with the counter.
一枚の絵画がオークションで高値で落札された。
One-flat-object's painting at auction for high price was bought.
Using the counter in a formal context like news reporting.
彼は、一枚の誤解から大きな問題を引き起こした。
He, one-flat-object's misunderstanding from big problem caused.
Figurative use: 'one misunderstanding'.
この古い地図は一枚しか残っていない。
This old map is one-flat-object only remains.
'Shika...nai' structure emphasizes scarcity.
一枚の感謝の気持ちを込めて、この手紙を書きました。
One-flat-object's feeling of gratitude putting, this letter wrote.
Expressing sentiment through a written medium.
その劇は、一枚の舞台装置で観客を魅了した。
That play, with one-flat-object's stage prop captivated audience.
Highlighting the impact of simple elements.
一枚のレシートから、彼の浪費癖が明らかになった。
One-flat-object's receipt from his extravagant spending habit became clear.
A single piece of evidence revealing a larger issue.
彼女は一枚の布を巧みに操り、見事なドレスを作り上げた。
She one-flat-object's cloth skillfully manipulated, splendid dress created.
Describing skillful craftsmanship.
一枚の革新的なアイデアが、業界の地図を塗り替える可能性を秘めている。
One-flat-object's innovative idea, industry's map redraw potential holds.
Metaphorical use of 'map' and 'idea'.
その歴史的文書は、一枚一枚丁寧に修復され、博物館に展示された。
That historical document, one-flat-object by one-flat-object carefully restored, in museum was exhibited.
Emphasizing the careful, item-by-item restoration process.
一枚の誤報が、市場に一時的な混乱をもたらした。
One-flat-object's false report, market into temporary confusion brought.
Highlighting the disproportionate impact of a single piece of information.
彼は、一枚の賭けに出て、すべてを失うか、すべてを得るかの瀬戸際に立っていた。
He, one-flat-object's gamble going out, everything lose or everything gain edge stood.
Idiomatic use related to high-stakes decisions.
一枚の静かな微笑みが、場の緊張感を和らげた。
One-flat-object's quiet smile, atmosphere's tension eased.
Describing the subtle power of non-verbal communication.
この complessoな問題は、一枚の単純な解決策では片付けられない。
This complex problem, with one-flat-object's simple solution cannot be settled.
Emphasizing the inadequacy of simplistic solutions for complex issues.
一枚の古びた写真が、忘れ去られていた家族の歴史を呼び覚ました。
One-flat-object's old photograph, forgotten family's history awakened.
The power of a single object to unlock memories.
一枚の声明発表が、国際関係に波紋を広げた。
One-flat-object's statement announcement, international relations into ripples spread.
The significant impact of official communications.
一枚の偽造紙幣が、金融システムの信認を揺るがしかねない。
One-flat-object's counterfeit banknote, financial system's credibility shake potentially.
Discussing the systemic risk posed by a single fraudulent item.
一枚の芸術作品が、時代を超えて文化的な対話を促進する触媒となり得る。
One-flat-object's work of art, transcending time cultural dialogue promoting catalyst become can.
The profound, long-term impact of a single cultural artifact.
一枚の失言が、長年培ってきた政治的信頼を根底から覆すことがある。
One-flat-object's slip of the tongue, many years cultivated political trust from the foundation overturn sometimes.
Analyzing the fragility of reputation and the power of a single utterance.
一枚の偶然の出会いが、彼の人生の軌道を永遠に変えてしまった。
One-flat-object's chance encounter, his life's trajectory eternally changed.
Exploring themes of fate and pivotal moments.
一枚の革新的な特許が、既存の産業構造を根本から変容させる力を持つ。
One-flat-object's innovative patent, existing industrial structure fundamentally transform power possesses.
The transformative power of intellectual property.
一枚の記録映像が、歴史の解釈に決定的な影響を与えることがある。
One-flat-object's recorded footage, history's interpretation into decisive influence exert sometimes.
The role of primary sources in historical revisionism.
一枚の哲学的な問いかけが、長年の思索の末に新たな知見を開く鍵となる。
One-flat-object's philosophical question, after years of contemplation new insight opening key becomes.
The genesis of significant intellectual progress from a single query.
一枚の決定的な証拠が、長年未解決だった事件の真相を解き明かした。
One-flat-object's decisive evidence, many years unsolved case's truth unraveled.
The power of singular evidence in legal and investigative contexts.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"一枚看板 (ichi mai kanban)"
The sole attraction; the star performer; the main draw.
彼はこの店の<strong>一枚看板</strong>なので、彼がいないと客が減る。(Kare wa kono mise no <strong>ichi mai kanban</strong> na node, kare ga inai to kyaku ga heru. - He is the main attraction of this shop, so customers decrease when he's not here.)
neutral"一枚噛む (ichi mai kamu)"
To get involved in something; to have a hand in something; to play a part.
そのプロジェクトに私も<strong>一枚噛ませてもらいました</strong>。(Sono purojekuto ni watashi mo <strong>ichi mai kamasete moraimashita</strong>. - I was allowed to play a part in that project too.)
neutral"一枚岩 (ichi mai iwa)"
Solid as one rock; unified; in complete agreement; monolithic.
経営陣は<strong>一枚岩</strong>となって、新しい戦略を推進した。(Keieijin wa <strong>ichi mai iwa</strong> to natte, atarashii senryaku wo suishin shita. - The management became a solid unit and promoted the new strategy.)
neutral"一枚の写真 (ichi mai no shashin)"
A single photograph; often implies a cherished memory or significant moment.
古いアルバムから見つけた<strong>一枚の写真</strong>に、昔の友人を思い出した。(Furui arubamu kara mitsuketa <strong>ichi mai no shashin</strong> ni, mukashi no yuujin wo omoidashita. - I remembered an old friend from a photograph I found in an old album.)
neutral"一枚の約束 (ichi mai no yakusoku)"
A promise (often implied to be written or formalized).
<strong>一枚の約束</strong>を破ったことで、彼は信用を失った。(<strong>Ichimai no yakusoku</strong> wo yabutta koto de, kare wa shinyou wo ushinatta. - He lost trust because he broke a promise.)
neutralEasily Confused
Both are common counters used with numbers.
'Ippon' is for long, cylindrical objects (pens, bottles, trees), while 'mai' is for flat, thin objects (paper, stamps).
A pen is 一本 (ippon), but a sheet of paper is 一枚 (ichimai).
Both refer to items that might be considered 'pieces' of something.
'Issatsu' is for books or bound volumes. 'Mai' is for single flat sheets.
A book is 一冊 (issatsu), while a single page torn from a book would be 一枚 (ichimai).
'Ikko' is a general-purpose counter.
'Ikko' is used for many smaller, often round or individual items (like eggs, apples, small boxes). 'Mai' is specifically for flat items.
An apple is 一個 (ikko), but a coin (which is flat) is 一枚 (ichimai).
Both can refer to 'pieces'.
'Ippen' often refers to smaller, possibly irregular pieces, or fragments, and can also be used for abstract concepts. 'Mai' is strictly for flat, sheet-like items.
A piece of advice might be 一片のアドバイス (ippen no adobaisu), while a single sheet of paper is 一枚の紙 (ichimai no kami).
Sentence Patterns
Noun + Counter (e.g., 紙一枚)
写真一枚ください。(Shashin ichimai kudasai. - Please give me one photograph.)
Number + Counter (e.g., 二枚)
二枚お願いします。(Ni mai onegaishimasu. - Two, please.)
Counter + の + Noun (e.g., 一枚の絵)
一枚の絵が壁にかかっていた。(Ichimai no e ga kabe ni kakatte ita. - A single painting was hanging on the wall.)
Noun + が/は + Number + Counter + です/あります/います
この本は三枚あります。(Kono hon wa san mai arimasu. - This book has three pages. [Less common, depends on context])
Idiom using Counter (e.g., 一枚噛む)
彼はその事件に一枚噛んでいたようだ。(Kare wa sono jiken ni ichimai kandeta you da. - It seems he was involved in that incident.)
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
'Mai' is exclusively for flat, thin items. Using it for a pen or a person would be incorrect.
Learners might mix it up with 'ippon' (long things) or 'ikko' (general small things).
They are two separate sounds: 'ichi' (one) and 'mai' (counter).
A thick book might use 'satsu' (bound volume counter), not 'mai', even though it's flat.
While 'mai' appears in idioms, its literal counting function should be applied carefully.
Tips
Visualize Flatness
When you see '枚', picture something perfectly flat like a pancake or a playing card. Connect 'mai' to 'my flat thing'.
Everyday Objects
Practice counting common flat items you encounter daily: sheets of paper, receipts, business cards, photos. This reinforces the counter's usage.
Precision in Language
Appreciate how Japanese uses specific counters like 'mai' to convey precise information about an object's shape. This reflects a culture that values detail.
Number + Counter
Remember the basic pattern: Number + Counter. For 'mai', it's 'ichi mai', 'ni mai', 'san mai', etc. Keep the number and counter together!
Clear 'I' Sounds
Ensure you pronounce the 'i' in 'ichi' and the 'ai' in 'mai' distinctly. Avoid slurring them together.
Don't Count Pens with 'Mai'!
Remember: 'Mai' is for FLAT things. Pens are long and thin, so use '本 (hon)'!
Character Clues
The character 枚 (mai) combines 'tree' and 'every', hinting at processed wood into flat planks. Look for clues in the kanji!
Flashcard Power
Create flashcards with a picture of a flat object on one side and '一枚' (or the relevant number + mai) on the other. Test yourself regularly.
Beyond Literal Counting
Be aware of idioms like '一枚噛む' (to get involved). While the core meaning relates to participation, it shows how counters can gain figurative meanings.
Noun + Counter is Common
Often, you'll see the noun first, then the counter: 紙一枚 (kami ichimai). This structure is very frequent.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'my' flat thing - 'Ichi MAI'. Imagine holding 'my' single, flat photo album.
Visual Association
Picture a single, flat playing card (like the Ace of Spades) with the number '1' on it.
Word Web
Challenge
Find five flat objects around you and count them using '一枚'.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: Derived from the character 枚, which originally related to wood planks or sheets.
Cultural Context
No specific cultural sensitivity associated with this numeral.
In English, we use 'a' or 'one' followed by the noun (e.g., 'a sheet of paper', 'one stamp'). The concept of a specific counter for flat objects isn't present.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Shopping for stationery
- 紙を一枚ください。(Kami wo ichimai kudasai. - Please give me one sheet of paper.)
- この切手は一枚いくらですか？(Kono kitte wa ichimai ikura desu ka? - How much is one stamp?)
- 葉書を五枚お願いします。(Hagaki wo go mai onegaishimasu. - Five postcards, please.)
Discussing documents/reports
- この書類は全部で十枚です。(Kono shorui wa zenbu de ju mai desu. - This document is ten pages in total.)
- 一枚目のページを開いてください。(Ichimai me no peeji wo hiraite kudasai. - Please open the first page.)
- 重要なのは一枚目の情報です。(Juuyou na no wa ichimai me no jouhou desu. - The important thing is the information on the first page.)
Looking at photos or art
- この写真、一枚ください。(Kono shashin, ichimai kudasai. - I'd like one of these photos, please.)
- 一枚の絵に感動しました。(Ichimai no e ni kandou shimashita. - I was moved by a single painting.)
- 記念に写真一枚撮りましょう。(Kinen ni shashin ichimai torimashou. - Let's take a photo together to commemorate.)
Handling money (coins/bills)
- コイン一枚で買えますか？(Koin ichimai de kaemasu ka? - Can I buy it with one coin?)
- お札を一枚数えてください。(Ofuda wo ichimai kazoete kudasai. - Please count one bill.)
- この硬貨は一枚いくらですか？(Kono kouka wa ichimai ikura desu ka? - How much is this coin?)
- 一枚の100円玉。(Ichimai no hyaku en dama. - One 100 yen coin.)
Conversation Starters
"Do you have a spare sheet of paper? (紙一枚ありますか？)"
"How much is one of these stamps? (この切手は一枚いくらですか？)"
"Let's take a photo together! (記念に写真一枚撮りましょう！)"
"Can I have one of these postcards? (この葉書を一枚ください。)"
"This painting is beautiful, isn't it? (この絵は一枚、素晴らしいですね。)"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you received or gave a single, important photograph.
Write about a document you had to handle that had many pages. How many pages were there?
Think of a time you were involved in a project (一枚噛んだ). What was your role?
Describe a flat object you own that is particularly special to you. How many do you have?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYou use 'mai' for objects that are flat and thin. Common examples include paper, stamps, photographs, postcards, coins, plates, and thin pieces of fabric.
Generally, no. Books are usually counted with '冊' (satsu) because they are bound volumes. While a book is flat, the binding and page structure make 'satsu' the more appropriate counter.
Yes, you can use '枚' for coins (like '一枚のコイン' - ichimai no koin). For bills or banknotes, you would typically use '枚' as well (e.g., '一枚のお札' - ichimai no ofuda - one bill), as they are also flat.
'一枚' (mai) specifically refers to flat, sheet-like objects. '一片' (ippen) can refer to a piece or fragment, which might be flat but also implies something smaller or broken off, or even abstract like 'a piece of advice'.
You change the number: '二枚' (ni mai). So, 'two sheets of paper' is '紙二枚' (kami ni mai).
While 'mai' is for flat things, context matters. For example, a very thick, flat object like a large cutting board might use a different counter depending on its primary characteristic. However, for most common flat items like paper, photos, and stamps, 'mai' is the standard.
Yes, it's pronounced 'ichi mai'. Make sure to pronounce both 'ichi' (one) and 'mai' clearly.
Yes. For example, '一枚もありません' (ichimai mo arimasen) means 'I don't have even one'.
Test Yourself
この手紙は ______ 紙に書きました。
We use 'mai' for flat objects like paper.
Which counter is used for flat objects like stamps?
'Mai' is the specific counter for flat items.
You can use '一枚' to count a pencil.
A pencil is a long object, so '本 (hon)' would be used, not '枚 (mai)'.
Word
Meaning
Matching common items with the 'mai' counter.
The correct sentence is 写真を一枚ください (Shashin wo ichimai kudasai - Please give me one photograph).
この地図は ______ で十分です。
The sentence implies 'one' map is enough.
Which phrase means 'one promise' (often written)?
'Mai' is used for flat items, and a promise can be formalized on paper.
The idiom '一枚岩' refers to a single, large rock.
'一枚岩' is an idiom meaning 'unified' or 'in complete agreement'.
オークションで、その絵は ______ で落札された。
A single painting (一枚) was sold.
一枚の誤報が市場に混乱をもたらした (Ichimai no gohou ga shijou ni konran wo motarashita - A single false report caused confusion in the market).
Score: /10
Summary
Mastering '一枚' (ichi mai) is essential for accurately counting flat objects in Japanese, from simple paper to symbolic photographs.
- 一枚 (ichi mai) is a Japanese numeral counter.
- It's used for flat, thin objects like paper, stamps, photos, and coins.
- The structure is typically Number + Counter.
- It appears in useful idioms like 一枚看板 (star attraction).
Visualize Flatness
When you see '枚', picture something perfectly flat like a pancake or a playing card. Connect 'mai' to 'my flat thing'.
Everyday Objects
Practice counting common flat items you encounter daily: sheets of paper, receipts, business cards, photos. This reinforces the counter's usage.
Precision in Language
Appreciate how Japanese uses specific counters like 'mai' to convey precise information about an object's shape. This reflects a culture that values detail.
Number + Counter
Remember the basic pattern: Number + Counter. For 'mai', it's 'ichi mai', 'ni mai', 'san mai', etc. Keep the number and counter together!
Example
紙を一枚ください。
Related Content
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
