question word / numeral HSK 1
Traditional 幾
how many · several · a few
Meaning
几 is one of the most basic question words in Mandarin, used to ask 'how many' for small, countable quantities (typically under 10). It can also mean 'several' or 'a few' in statements. When asking questions, it must be followed by a measure word and noun.
Usage
Native speakers use 几 when they expect a relatively small number as an answer. For larger or indefinite quantities, 多少 (duōshao) is used instead. In statements, 几 means 'several' without a specific number. Always pair with appropriate measure words in questions.
Examples
- 01你有几个兄弟姐妹？?How many siblings do you have?
- 02现在几点了？?What time is it now?
Common collocations
- 几点what time; what o'clock
- 几岁how old (for young children)
- 几个人how many people; several people
- 好几quite a few; a good many
Origin
The traditional form 幾 is a complex character. The simplified form 几 originally meant 'small table' but was borrowed for this common question word due to its simpler form.