A2 Measure Words 15 min read Easy

Counting Actions with 'Times' (次)

Use [Verb] + [Number] + 次 to count occurrences; remember pronouns come before the measure word.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {次|cì} after a verb to say how many times you did an action.

  • Place the number and {次|cì} directly after the verb: {我去过一次|wǒ qùguò yī cì} (I went once).
  • If there is an object, the object usually comes after the {次|cì}: {我看了三次电影|wǒ kànle sān cì diànyǐng}.
  • If the object is a pronoun (like {我|wǒ}, {他|tā}), the pronoun comes before {次|cì}: {我找过他两次|wǒ zhǎoguò tā liǎng cì}.
Verb + Number + 次 + (Object)

Overview

The Chinese verbal measure word 次 (cì) is fundamental for expressing the frequency or number of occurrences of an action. Unlike English, where "times" can be a standalone noun or adverb, 次 functions as a 动量词 (dòngliàngcí), a measure word specifically quantifying verbs. It allows you to transform a simple statement like "I went" into "I went three times," providing crucial detail about the repetition of an event.

Mastering 次 is essential for moving beyond basic sentence structures and accurately describing repeated actions in both past and future contexts.

At its core, Chinese grammar prioritizes presenting information in a logical flow: subject, then verb, then how the verb was performed or how often. This often positions quantifiers, like 次, immediately after the action they modify. While nominal measure words like 个 (gè) quantify nouns, 次 serves the same counting function for actions, making it a pivotal component of verbal quantification.

For A2 learners, understanding 次 unlocks the ability to discuss personal experiences, routines, and intentions with much greater precision.

How This Grammar Works

The primary function of 次 is to count how many times an action takes place. It invariably follows the verb it quantifies, forming a verb-complement structure. This placement is non-negotiable for most uses.
The basic construction involves a number preceding 次, creating a quantity phrase such as 一次 (yī cì, one time), 两次 (liǎng cì, two times), 三次 (sān cì, three times), and so forth. Note the consistent use of 两 (liǎng) for "two" when counting occurrences, never 二 (èr).
This quantity phrase (Number + 次) directly modifies the verb, answering the implicit question "how many times?" Consider the action 看 (kàn, to watch). To say "watch once," you combine it as 看一次 (kàn yī cì). To express "watch three times," it becomes 看三次 (kàn sān cì).
This structure applies whether the action is transitive or intransitive, completed or ongoing.
Crucially, 次 often appears in sentences describing completed actions or past experiences. In such cases, aspect particles like 了 (le) or 过 (guò) play a vital role. These particles typically attach directly to the verb before the Number + 次 phrase.
  • 了 (le) indicates the completion of an action. When paired with 次, it highlights that the action was performed a certain number of times and is now finished.
  • Example: 我吃了一次饭。 (Wǒ chīle yī cì fàn. I ate a meal once.) This emphasizes the meal's completion.
  • 过 (guò) indicates past experience. With 次, it describes how many times an experience has occurred up to the present.
  • Example: 她来过两次。 (Tā láiguo liǎng cì. She has come twice [before].) This highlights her prior visits.
Sometimes, 次 can appear without an explicit number when the quantity is implied or indefinite, particularly in questions using 几 (jǐ, how many/few) or when expressing "next time" 下次 (xià cì) or "last time" 上次 (shàng cì).
  • Example: 你打算去几次？ (Nǐ dǎsuàn qù jǐ cì? How many times do you plan to go?)
  • Example: 下次我们再聊。 (Xià cì wǒmen zài liáo. We’ll chat again next time.)
This fundamental understanding of 次 as a post-verbal quantifier, often interacting with aspect particles, forms the backbone of expressing iterative actions in Chinese.

Formation Pattern

1
The placement of the Number + 次 phrase within a sentence varies slightly depending on whether the verb takes an object, and if so, what kind of object it is (noun, pronoun, or place word). Mastering these patterns is key to fluent expression.
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Here are the primary formation patterns:
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1. Intransitive Verbs (No Object)
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For verbs that do not take a direct object, the Number + 次 phrase directly follows the verb, usually after an aspect particle if the action is completed or experienced.
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| Structure | Example (Simplified | Pinyin) | Meaning |
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| :--------------------------------------- | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------- |
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| [Subject] + [Verb] + [(了/过)] + [Number] + 次 | 她笑了一次。 | Tā xiàole yī cì. | She laughed once. |
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| | 我来过两次。 | Wǒ láiguo liǎng cì. | I've been here twice. |
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2. Transitive Verbs with General Noun Object
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When the verb takes a general noun as an object (e.g., 书 shū, book; 电影 diànyǐng, movie), the Number + 次 phrase typically appears between the verb and the object. This is the most common and natural pattern.
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| Structure | Example (Simplified | Pinyin) | Meaning |
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| :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------- |
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| [Subject] + [Verb] + [(了/过)] + [Number] + 次 + [Object] | 我看了三次电影。 | Wǒ kànle sān cì diànyǐng. | I watched the movie three times. |
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| | 她读过一次那本书。 | Tā dúguo yī cì nà běn shū. | She has read that book once. |
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Important Note: While technically possible, placing the noun object before Number + 次 (e.g., 我看了电影三次) is generally less common and can sometimes sound unnatural for 次, especially compared to 遍. Prioritize the Verb + Number + 次 + Object pattern for clarity and naturalness.
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3. Transitive Verbs with Pronoun Object
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Pronoun objects (e.g., 他 tā, him; 我 wǒ, me; 他们 tāmen, them) are considered "light" and tend to gravitate closer to the verb. Therefore, the pronoun object usually comes before the Number + 次 phrase.
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| Structure | Example (Simplified | Pinyin) | Meaning |
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| :--------------------------------------------- | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------- |
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| [Subject] + [Verb] + [(了/过)] + [Pronoun Object] + [Number] + 次 | 我找了他两次。 | Wǒ zhǎole tā liǎng cì. | I looked for him twice. |
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| | 你见过她几次？ | Nǐ jiànguo tā jǐ cì? | How many times have you seen her? |
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4. Verbs with Place Word Object
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When the object is a place word (e.g., 北京 Běijīng, Beijing; 上海 Shànghǎi, Shanghai), both placements are generally acceptable, with subtle differences in emphasis.
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Pattern A (Focus on the action's frequency): The Number + 次 phrase follows the verb and precedes the place word. This is often the more neutral and common construction.
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| Structure | Example (Simplified | Pinyin) | Meaning |
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| :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------- |
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| [Subject] + [Verb] + [(了/过)] + [Number] + 次 + [Place] | 她去过一次北京。 | Tā qùguo yī cì Běijīng. | She has been to Beijing once. |
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| | 我来过三次上海。 | Wǒ láiguo sān cì Shànghǎi. | I have been to Shanghai three times. |
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Pattern B (Focus on the place, or the experience of being there): The place word follows the verb and precedes the Number + 次 phrase. This can feel slightly more informal or emphasize the destination itself.
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| Structure | Example (Simplified | Pinyin) | Meaning |
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| :-------------------------------------------- | :------------------ | :--------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------- |
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| [Subject] + [Verb] + [(了/过)] + [Place] + [Number] + 次 | 她去过北京一次。 | Tā qùguo Běijīng yī cì. | She has been to Beijing once. |
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| | 我来过上海三次。 | Wǒ láiguo Shànghǎi sān cì. | I have been to Shanghai three times. |
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Understanding these distinct patterns will help you construct grammatically correct and natural-sounding sentences when using 次.

When To Use It

You should use 次 (cì) whenever you need to quantify the number of discrete instances an action has occurred or will occur. Its utility spans a wide range of situations, from recounting past events to discussing routines and future plans.
  • Expressing Past Experiences or Completed Actions: This is one of the most common applications of 次. When combined with the aspect particles 了 (le) or 过 (guò), 次 allows you to specify how many times something happened or has been experienced.
  • 我给他打过两次电话。 (Wǒ gěi tā dǎguo liǎng cì diànhuà. I have called him twice.)
  • 我们讨论了这个问题好几次。 (Wǒmen tǎolùnle zhège wèntí hǎojǐ cì. We discussed this issue several times.)
  • A useful phrase is 没...过一次 (méi...guo yī cì), meaning "never even once." For example, 我没去过迪士尼乐园一次。 (Wǒ méi qùguo Díshìní Lèyuán yī cì. I haven't been to Disneyland even once.)
  • Describing Habits or Routines: 次 is indispensable for quantifying actions that happen regularly. You'll often see it with adverbs of frequency or time expressions.
  • 他每天早上跑两次步。 (Tā měitiān zǎoshang pǎo liǎng cì bù. He runs twice every morning.)
  • 这种药一天吃三次。 (Zhè zhǒng yào yī tiān chī sān cì. This medicine is taken three times a day.)
  • Stating Intentions or Future Plans: You can use 次 with verbs like 想 (xiǎng, to want) or 打算 (dǎsuàn, to plan) to express how many times you intend to perform an action.
  • 我想去一次中国。 (Wǒ xiǎng qù yī cì Zhōngguó. I want to go to China once.)
  • 你下次什么时候来？ (Nǐ xià cì shénme shíhou lái? When will you come next time?) — Note the common phrase 下次 (xià cì, next time).
  • Quantifying Abstract Events: Beyond physical actions, 次 can also quantify more abstract "events" or "occasions." It acts as a classifier for these occurrences.
  • 你还有几次机会。 (Nǐ hái yǒu jǐ cì jīhuì. You still have a few chances.)
  • 这次会议很重要。 (Zhè cì huìyì hěn zhòngyào. This meeting is very important.) — Here, 这次 (zhè cì, this time) acts as a demonstrative for an event.
A subtle cultural observation is the directness with which 次 allows for precise quantification. While English speakers might often generalize with "a few times," Chinese speakers frequently specify the exact number of occurrences, indicating a preference for factual clarity in describing events. This precision is a hallmark of using 次 effectively.

Common Mistakes

Chinese learners, particularly those whose native language doesn't have verbal measure words, often make specific errors when using 次. Recognizing these patterns will significantly improve your accuracy.
1. Incorrect Placement of Number + 次:
The most frequent mistake is placing Number + 次 before the verb, mirroring English sentence structure ("I three times went"). In Chinese, verbal quantifiers must follow the verb.
  • Incorrect: *我三次去。 (Wǒ sān cì qù.)
  • Correct: 我去三次。 (Wǒ qù sān cì.) or 我去了三次。 (Wǒ qùle sān cì.)
  • Correction Principle: Always remember the verb-complement relationship: the action comes first, then its quantification.
2. Misuse of 二 (èr) instead of 两 (liǎng):
When counting two occurrences, always use 两 (liǎng) with 次, not 二 (èr). 二 (èr) is used for cardinal numbers in sequences, phone numbers, or mathematical operations. 两 (liǎng) specifically signifies "two of a kind" or "a pair," and is standard before measure words.
  • Incorrect: *二次 (èr cì)
  • Correct: 两次 (liǎng cì)
  • Correction Principle: 两 is the dedicated form for quantifying nouns and actions in pairs or groups of two.
3. Incorrect Pronoun Object Placement:
As discussed in the Formation Pattern, pronoun objects are "light" and generally precede the Number + 次 phrase, staying close to the verb. Placing Number + 次 before a pronoun object is a common error.
  • Incorrect: *我见了两次他。 (Wǒ jiànle liǎng cì tā.)
  • Correct: 我见了他两次。 (Wǒ jiànle tā liǎng cì.)
  • Correction Principle: Think of pronouns as integral to the verb's immediate action; the quantification describes the action with the pronoun.
4. Confusing 次 with 遍 (biàn):
While both 次 and 遍 can mean "times," their nuances are distinct and frequently confused.
  • 次 (cì): Focuses on the number of discrete occurrences or instances of an action. It counts the event itself, regardless of whether it was completed perfectly or entirely. You could watch a movie "once" (看一次) and fall asleep halfway through, and it still counts as one occurrence.
  • 遍 (biàn): Emphasizes the completion or entire process of an action, from beginning to end, implying thoroughness. It suggests the action was carried out fully. If you watch a movie "once" (看一遍) with 遍, it implies you watched every frame, from start to finish. This is often used with verbs like 读 (dú, read), 看 (kàn, watch), 听 (tīng, listen), 说 (shuō, speak).
| Feature | 次 (cì) | 遍 (biàn) |
| :-------------- | :--------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------- |
| Focus | Number of occurrences/instances | Completion, thoroughness, entire process |
| Implication | Event happened, not necessarily completed | Action carried out from beginning to end |
| Usage | General actions, physical movement | Actions involving reading, watching, listening, speaking |
| Example | 我去了三次北京。 (I went to Beijing three times.) | 我把书读了两遍。 (I read the book twice [completely].) |
| Example | 我试了两次。 (I tried twice.) | 请再说一遍。 (Please say it again [completely].) |
5. Confusing 次 with 下 (xià):
下 (xià) is another verbal measure word that can sometimes translate to "times," but it has a much narrower application.
  • 次 (cì): For general, discrete actions or events.
  • 下 (xià): For brief, sudden, or light actions that occur momentarily, often involving a physical impact or a quick movement. Examples include knocking, tapping, blinking, nodding, or hitting.
| Feature | 次 (cì) | 下 (xià) |
| :-------------- | :--------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------- |
| Focus | General occurrences, events | Brief, sudden, light, momentary actions |
| Implication | Any discrete instance of an action | Quick, often physical, transient action |
| Usage | 去 (go), 看 (watch), 吃 (eat), 说 (speak) | 敲 (knock), 打 (hit), 眨 (blink), 点 (nod) |
| Example | 我敲了三次门。 (I knocked on the door three separate times/events.) | 我敲了三下门。 (I knocked on the door three quick taps.) |
The distinction between 次, 遍, and 下 is a common area of difficulty, but understanding their core focus (occurrence vs. completeness vs. momentary action) will clarify their appropriate usage.

Real Conversations

The measure word 次 is an integral part of everyday Chinese communication, appearing in diverse contexts from casual banter to formal discussions. Observing its use in natural speech, texts, and social media will help you internalize its nuances.

- Casual Interactions and Personal Experiences:

In informal settings, 次 frequently comes up when sharing personal anecdotes or asking about others' experiences. The Number + 次 structure provides concise factual information.

- Texting: 你来北京几次了？ (Nǐ lái Běijīng jǐ cì le? How many times have you been to Beijing?)

- Response: 我只去过一次。 (Wǒ zhǐ qùguo yī cì. I've only been once.) — Notice 只 (zhǐ, only) for emphasis.

- Dialogue: 那个餐厅我吃过两次，味道不错！ (Nàge cāntīng wǒ chīguo liǎng cì, wèidào bùcuò! I’ve eaten at that restaurant twice, the food is good!)

- Planning and Future Actions:

When discussing future events or intentions, 次 is used to specify how many times something is planned to happen. The phrase 下次 (xià cì, next time) is extremely common.

- Work email: 我们下次会议定在下周二。 (Wǒmen xià cì huìyì dìng zài xià zhōu'èr. Our next meeting is set for next Tuesday.)

- Planning with friends: 我打算下个月再健身三次。 (Wǒ dǎsuàn xià ge yuè zài jiànshēn sān cì. I plan to hit the gym three more times next month.)

- Instructions and Requirements:

In more formal or instructional contexts, 次 conveys precise requirements regarding the frequency of an action.

- Health advice: 这种药每天服用两次。 (Zhè zhǒng yào měitiān fúyòng liǎng cì. This medicine should be taken twice daily.)

- Feedback: 这个报告你需要修改三次，请仔细检查。 (Zhège bàogào nǐ xūyào xiūgǎi sān cì, qǐng zǐxì jiǎnchá. You need to revise this report three times; please check it carefully.)

- Exaggeration and Emphasis:

While not formal, 次 can be used colloquially to express exaggeration or strong emotion, similar to English "a million times."

- Online comment: 这个视频我看了N次了，太好笑了！ (Zhège shìpín wǒ kànle N cì le, tài hǎoxiàole! I've watched this video N times, it's so funny!) — Here, 'N' is a placeholder for a large, unspecified number.

- Complaint: 我跟你说过多少次了，不要这样！ (Wǒ gēn nǐ shuōguo duōshǎo cì le, búyào zhèyàng! How many times have I told you not to do this!)

These examples illustrate that 次 is not just a grammar point but a functional element enabling clear and contextualized communication about events and actions. Pay attention to how native speakers use it in their daily lives to develop a more intuitive understanding.

Quick FAQ

Here are answers to some common questions about using 次 (cì) to clarify specific points and common areas of confusion.
Q: Can I use 次 in a negative sentence?

Absolutely. To express that an action has not occurred a certain number of times, you typically use 没 (有) + Verb + 过 + (Number) + 次. The 过 particle is almost always present in negative statements about past experiences.

  • Example: 我还没去过一次上海。 (Wǒ hái méi qùguo yī cì Shànghǎi. I haven't been to Shanghai even once yet.)
  • Example: 他没来过几次。 (Tā méi láiguo jǐ cì. He hasn't come many times/often.)
Q: Is 一次 always necessary for "once"? Can I just say 去次?

While 一次 (yī cì) explicitly means "one time," the number 一 (yī) is sometimes omitted when the context clearly implies "once" or a single instance, especially in casual speech or when responding to a question. However, for A2 learners, it is highly recommended to always include 一 for clarity and correctness until you develop a strong feel for when it can be dropped.

  • Example: 你吃过这种菜吗？ (Nǐ chīguo zhè zhǒng cài ma? Have you eaten this dish before?) 吃过一次。 (Chīguo yī cì. Eaten it once.) — 吃过 (chīguo) alone implies experience, 吃过一次 specifies once.
Q: Can 次 be used with time durations? For example, "I watched TV for three times" (meaning three hours)?

No, 次 quantifies the number of occurrences of an action, not its duration. If you want to say "for three hours," you would use a time duration complement like 三小时 (sān xiǎoshí) directly after the verb or at the end of the sentence.

  • Incorrect: *我看了三次电视。 (Wǒ kànle sān cì diànshì.) (This means "I watched TV three times/on three occasions.")
  • Correct: 我看了三个小时电视。 (Wǒ kànle sān ge xiǎoshí diànshì. I watched TV for three hours.)
  • Correct: 我看了电视三个小时。 (Wǒ kànle diànshì sān ge xiǎoshí. I watched TV for three hours.)
Q: What about 第一次 (dì yī cì), 第二次 (dì èr cì), etc.?

These phrases use 次 to form ordinal numbers for occurrences. The particle 第 (dì) transforms the numerical Number + 次 into an ordinal concept: "the first time," "the second time," and so on. In this construction, 二 (èr) is used after 第 for "second," not 两.

  • Example: 这是我第一次来中国。 (Zhè shì wǒ dì yī cì lái Zhōngguó. This is my first time coming to China.)
  • Example: 第二次机会。 (Dì èr cì jīhuì. The second chance/opportunity.)
Q: Does 次 have any relationship with 趟 (tàng)?

Yes, 趟 (tàng) is another verbal measure word related to 次, but it is specifically used for counting round trips or journeys to a place and back. If you go to a place and return, that's one 趟.

  • Example: 我跑了三趟银行。 (Wǒ pǎole sān tàng yínháng. I made three trips to the bank [and back each time].)
  • Compare: 我去了三次银行。 (Wǒ qùle sān cì yínháng. I went to the bank three times [could be three one-way trips, or three distinct visits without specifying return].)
Understanding these distinctions will allow you to use 次 with greater confidence and precision in your Chinese communication.

Basic Frequency Structure

Subject Verb Number Measure Word Object
我
去
一
次
北京
他
看
两
次
电影
我们
吃
三
次
火锅
你
打
四
次
电话
老师
说
五
次
中文
他们
跑
六
次
步

Meanings

The character {次|cì} acts as a measure word for the frequency of an action, indicating how many times an event occurred.

1

Frequency of action

Used to quantify how many times a verb has been performed.

“{我来过一次|wǒ láiguò yī cì}”

“{请再说一次|qǐng zài shuō yī cì}”

Reference Table

Reference table for Counting Actions with 'Times' (次)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Verb + Num + 次
{我去过一次|wǒ qùguò yī cì}
Negative
没 + Verb + Num + 次
{我没去过一次|wǒ méi qùguò yī cì}
Question
Verb + 几 + 次?
{你去过几次?|nǐ qùguò jǐ cì?}
Pronoun Object
Verb + Pronoun + Num + 次
{我找过他两次|wǒ zhǎoguò tā liǎng cì}
Noun Object
Verb + Num + 次 + Noun
{我看过三次电影|wǒ kànguò sān cì diànyǐng}
Emphasis
Verb + 多 + 次
{我试过多次|wǒ shìguò duō cì}

Formality Spectrum

Formal
本人曾两次到访该地。

本人曾两次到访该地。 (Travel)

Neutral
我去过那里两次。

我去过那里两次。 (Travel)

Informal
我去过两次。

我去过两次。 (Travel)

Slang
去过两次啦。

去过两次啦。 (Travel)

The Frequency Flow

Action

Count

  • 一次 Once
  • 两次 Twice

Object

  • 电影 Movie
  • 北京 Beijing
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Examples by Level

1

{我来一次|wǒ lái yī cì}

I come once.

2

{他去两次|tā qù liǎng cì}

He goes twice.

3

{看一次|kàn yī cì}

Look once.

4

{吃两次|chī liǎng cì}

Eat twice.

1

{我去过两次中国|wǒ qùguò liǎng cì Zhōngguó}

I have been to China twice.

2

{请再说一次|qǐng zài shuō yī cì}

Please say it one more time.

3

{我看了三次电影|wǒ kànle sān cì diànyǐng}

I watched the movie three times.

4

{他找过我两次|tā zhǎoguò wǒ liǎng cì}

He looked for me twice.

1

{我读过这本书五次|wǒ dúguò zhè běn shū wǔ cì}

I have read this book five times.

2

{这首歌我听了无数次|zhè shǒu gē wǒ tīngle wúshù cì}

I have listened to this song countless times.

3

{他每天锻炼两次|tā měitiān duànliàn liǎng cì}

He exercises twice every day.

4

{我们开过几次会|wǒmen kāiguò jǐ cì huì}

We have had a few meetings.

1

{该项目我们已经评估过三次|gāi xiàngmù wǒmen yǐjīng pínggūguò sān cì}

We have already evaluated the project three times.

2

{为了成功，他尝试了多次|wèile chénggōng, tā chángshìle duō cì}

To succeed, he tried many times.

3

{这种错误不能再犯第二次|zhè zhǒng cuòwù bùnéng zài fàn dì èr cì}

This kind of mistake cannot be made a second time.

4

{我曾多次向他建议|wǒ céng duō cì xiàng tā jiànyì}

I have suggested it to him many times.

1

{无论发生多少次，我都会坚持|wúlùn fāshēng duōshǎo cì, wǒ dūhuì jiānchí}

No matter how many times it happens, I will persist.

2

{此举实属无奈，仅此一次|cǐ jǔ shí shǔ wúnài, jǐn cǐ yī cì}

This action is a last resort, just this once.

3

{他反复强调了多次|tā fǎnfù qiángdiàole duō cì}

He emphasized it repeatedly many times.

4

{历经多次磨难，他终于成功了|lìjīng duō cì mónàn, tā zhōngyú chénggōngle}

After experiencing many hardships, he finally succeeded.

1

{这不仅是第一次，也不会是最后一次|zhè bùjǐn shì dì yī cì, yě bù huì shì zuìhòu yī cì}

This is not only the first time, nor will it be the last.

2

{他曾数次提及此事|tā céng shù cì tíjí cǐ shì}

He has mentioned this matter several times.

3

{哪怕只有一次机会，也要把握住|nǎpà zhǐyǒu yī cì jīhuì, yě yào bǎwò zhù}

Even if there is only one chance, you must grasp it.

4

{他对此事已然心知肚明，无需多言多次|tā duì cǐ shì yǐrán xīnzhīdùmíng, wúxū duō yán duō cì}

He is well aware of this matter, no need to say it many times.

Easily Confused

Counting Actions with 'Times' (次) vs {次|cì} vs {遍|biàn}

Both mean 'times', but {次|cì} is for frequency, {遍|biàn} is for completion.

Counting Actions with 'Times' (次) vs {次|cì} vs {回|huí}

Both are used for frequency, but {回|huí} is more informal.

Counting Actions with 'Times' (次) vs {次|cì} vs {下|xià}

{下|xià} is for a quick, single action.

Common Mistakes

✗

我二次去

✓

我去两次

Use {两|liǎng} for counting, not {二|èr}.
✗

两次我去

✓

我去两次

Frequency must follow the verb.
✗

我去一回

✓

我去一次

While {回|huí} is possible, {次|cì} is the standard for A1.
✗

我去一次北京

✓

我去过北京一次

Placement of object.
✗

我看电影三次

✓

我看过三次电影

The count should precede the object.
✗

我找两次他

✓

我找过他两次

Pronoun objects must come before the count.
✗

我吃过二回

✓

我吃过两次

Again, use {两|liǎng}.
✗

我读了这本书三遍

✓

我读了这本书三次

If you just mean frequency, use {次|cì}.
✗

我试过三回

✓

我试过三次

Standardize to {次|cì} for general frequency.
✗

我跑了三次步

✓

我跑了三次步

Actually, this is correct, but learners often struggle with separable verbs.
✗

他强调了三遍

✓

他强调了三次

Emphasis on frequency vs completion.
✗

仅此一回

✓

仅此一次

Idiomatic usage.
✗

数遍提及

✓

数次提及

Formal register.
✗

多次的尝试

✓

多次尝试

Avoid unnecessary 'de'.

Sentence Patterns

我___过___次___。

请你___一次。

他___了___次。

我___过他___次。

Real World Usage

Social Media very common

我刷了三次这条视频。

Texting very common

再说一次？

Job Interview common

我使用过该软件多次。

Ordering Food common

我来过这家店两次。

Travel common

我去过北京三次。

Customer Service common

请您再确认一次。

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💡

The 'Liang' Rule

Always use {两|liǎng} for 'two'. Never use {二|èr} when counting frequency.
⚠️

Object Placement

Don't put the object before the count if it's a noun! Verb + Count + Object.
🎯

Pronoun vs Noun

If the object is a person (pronoun), put it before the count. If it's a thing (noun), put it after.
💬

Natural Speech

Use {多次|duō cì} for 'many times' to sound more natural than saying 'many times' literally.

Smart Tips

Always pair {过|guò} with {次|cì} to sound natural.

我去一次北京。 → 我去过一次北京。

Replace 'er' with 'liang' for all measure words.

我去过二次。 → 我去过两次。

Put the person before the count.

我找过两次他。 → 我找过他两次。

Use {多次|duō cì} instead of saying 'many times' literally.

我试了很多次。 → 我尝试过多次。

Pronunciation

cì

Tone of {次|cì}

It is a fourth tone (falling). Make it sharp and quick.

Question intonation

你去过几次? ↑

Rising pitch at the end for questions.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Remember 'Cì' sounds like 'See'—you 'see' the action happen one time, two times, three times!

Visual Association

Imagine a tally mark board on a wall. Every time you perform an action, you draw a line. That line is a 'cì'.

Rhyme

One time, two times, say it with {次|cì}, after the verb, it fits just right.

Story

Xiao Wang went to the store. He bought milk once. He went back twice. He realized he forgot his wallet three times. He felt silly.

Word Web

一次两次三次多次几次下次上次

Challenge

Write down 3 things you have done today and count them using the {次|cì} structure.

Cultural Notes

Very standard usage in daily life.

Similar usage, but sometimes {回|huí} is used more frequently in casual speech.

Often influenced by Cantonese, where {次|cì} is also used but pronunciation varies.

The character {次|cì} originally meant 'to stop' or 'a resting place' (like an inn), which evolved into the concept of a 'sequence' or 'turn'.

Conversation Starters

“

你来过中国几次？

“

你看过这部电影几次？

“

你每天锻炼几次？

“

你向他建议过几次？

Journal Prompts

Write about your last vacation using the frequency structure.
Describe a habit you have and how often you do it.
Write about a mistake you made and how many times you tried to fix it.
Reflect on your language learning journey.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct frequency word.

我去过___北京。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 一次
Use {一次|yī cì} for 'once'.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过两次北京
Frequency follows the verb.
Find the error. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

我看了二次电影。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 二次
Should be {两次|liǎng cì}.
Reorder the words. Sentence Building

过 / 我 / 两次 / 去 / 北京

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过两次北京
Standard structure.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I have been there three times.

Answer starts with: 我去过...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过那里三次
Correct structure.
Is this rule true? True False Rule

Can you use {二|èr} for 'two times'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: False
Always use {两|liǎng}.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: 你去过上海吗? B: _____

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过一次
Natural response.
Change to past experience. Conjugation Drill

我去一次 -> ?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过一次
Past experience uses {过|guò}.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct frequency word.

我去过___北京。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 一次
Use {一次|yī cì} for 'once'.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过两次北京
Frequency follows the verb.
Find the error. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

我看了二次电影。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 二次
Should be {两次|liǎng cì}.
Reorder the words. Sentence Building

过 / 我 / 两次 / 去 / 北京

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过两次北京
Standard structure.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

I have been there three times.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过那里三次
Correct structure.
Is this rule true? True False Rule

Can you use {二|èr} for 'two times'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: False
Always use {两|liǎng}.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: 你去过上海吗? B: _____

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过一次
Natural response.
Change to past experience. Conjugation Drill

我去一次 -> ?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我去过一次
Past experience uses {过|guò}.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

6 exercises
Fill in the blank Fill in the Blank

老师把这句话说了三 ___。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 次
Reorder the words to make a correct sentence. Sentence Reorder

过 / 我 / 两次 / 见 / 他

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我见过他两次
Translate 'I want to go to China one time.' Translation

I want to go to China one time.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我想去一次中国。
Which is correct for daily habits? Multiple Choice

How do you say 'I brush my teeth twice a day'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我每天刷两次牙。
Fix the sentence Error Correction

他去了一次北京。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: This sentence is correct.
Match the Chinese to the English Match Pairs

Match the following:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 见过他一次 - Met him once

Score: /6

FAQ (8)

No, {次|cì} is for frequency. Use {小时|xiǎoshí} or {分钟|fēnzhōng} for duration.

In Chinese, {两|liǎng} is used for counting quantities and measures, while {二|èr} is for numbers in a sequence.

If it's a noun, it goes after {次|cì}. If it's a pronoun, it goes before.

It is neutral and used in all contexts.

Yes, but {次|cì} is more common in standard Mandarin.

Use {多次|duō cì}.

No, use {位|wèi} or {个|gè} for people.

Yes, e.g., {我下次去|wǒ xià cì qù} (I will go next time).

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

Sign up free to practice

In Other Languages

Spanish high

veces

Spanish places 'veces' after the verb, similar to Chinese.

French high

fois

French requires specific placement that is more flexible than Chinese.

German high

Mal

German grammar allows for more variation in sentence structure.

Japanese high

回 (kai)

Japanese particles make the structure more rigid.

Arabic moderate

مرة (marra)

Arabic grammar is gendered, which affects the number used.

Chinese n/a

{次|cì}

The standard for all other comparisons.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
Measure Word 场 (chǎng) for Events

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