noun / measure word HSK 5
curtain · act (of a play) · screen · scene
Meaning
幕 originally referred to a curtain or screen used to cover or divide spaces. In theatrical contexts, it means an 'act' of a play, as curtains traditionally marked divisions between acts. It's also used as a measure word for counting acts in plays or scenes in performances.
Usage
Commonly used in theater and film contexts to refer to acts or scenes. As a standalone noun, it often appears in compounds like 屏幕 (screen) or 开幕 (opening ceremony). When used as a measure word, it counts acts in theatrical performances.
Examples
- 01这部话剧一共有三幕。.This play has three acts in total.
- 02开幕式将在明天举行。.The opening ceremony will be held tomorrow.
Measure words
- 幕第一幕
Common collocations
- 开幕opening (ceremony)
- 闭幕closing (ceremony)
- 屏幕screen
- 幕后behind the scenes
Origin
The character 幕 consists of 巾 (cloth) at the bottom and 莫 (do not/evening) at the top, originally depicting a cloth covering used at night or to block view.