noun / measure word HSK 4
branch · twig · classifier for long thin objects like pens or flowers
Meaning
枝 refers to a branch or twig of a tree or plant. It's composed of the wood radical (木) plus the character 支, suggesting something that extends or branches out. Beyond its literal meaning, it also functions as a measure word for stick-like objects such as pens, pencils, arrows, or flowers with stems.
Usage
As a noun, 枝 is commonly used in literary and everyday contexts when discussing plants and trees. As a measure word, it's particularly common with writing implements (一枝笔) and flowers (一枝玫瑰). Native speakers often use it in compounds like 树枝 (tree branch) rather than standalone.
Examples
- 01那棵大树的树枝上挂满了红苹果。.The branches of that big tree are laden with red apples.
- 02她送给我一枝玫瑰花。.She gave me a rose.
Measure words
- 根一根树枝
- 枝一枝笔
Common collocations
- 树枝tree branch
- 枝条twig, branch
- 枝叶繁茂luxuriant foliage
- 一枝独秀to stand out from the crowd
Antonyms
Origin
The character combines 木 (wood/tree) with 支 (to support/branch), pictographically representing a branch extending from a tree trunk.