つ
つ
counter
general counter
1.
general counter (1-9)
A native Japanese counter that can be used for various objects, especially when the specific counter is unknown. Only used for numbers 1-9.
一つください。
Please give me one.
つ is the most versatile Japanese counter. It uses native Japanese (やまとことば) numbers and can count almost anything when you don't know the specific counter. It only works for numbers 1-9.
COUNTING FORMS:
- 一つ (1), 二つ (2), 三つ (3)
- 四つ (4), 五つ (5), 六つ (6)
- 七つ (7), 八つ (8), 九つ (9)
LIMITATIONS:
- No form for 10 or above. For 10, use 十. For higher numbers, use specific counters or the Chinese-derived number system.
- Cannot count people (use 人) or long thin objects (use 本).
USAGE:
This is the safest counter to use when unsure which specific counter applies. It sounds natural for small objects, abstract things, and items on a list.