Translation guide
In Japanese, counters are suffix-like words attached to numbers to count objects, people, animals, and abstract things. The choice of counter depends on the shape, size, or category of the item. This guide covers the most common counters and how to use them naturally.
Use when you don't know the specific counter or for miscellaneous items. This is the native Japanese counting system, but it only goes up to ten.
The つ counter is a generic counter for inanimate objects. It uses the native Japanese number system (ひと、ふた、み…) and only goes up to ten. It's safe to use when you're unsure of the specific counter.
Please give me three apples.
I have five questions.
Use for small three-dimensional objects like apples, eggs, balls, stones, etc.
The most common counter for small, roughly round or compact objects. It uses the Sino-Japanese number system (いち、に、さん…).
Use to count people. Note the irregular readings for one and two people.
The counter for people. 'One person' and 'two people' use the native Japanese readings ひとり and ふたり. From three onwards, it's the Sino-Japanese number + にん.
Use for thin, flat items like paper, tickets, plates, shirts, etc.
Use for long, thin objects like pencils, bottles, trees, rivers, etc.
Used for long, cylindrical objects. Note the sound changes: いっぽん (1), にほん (2), さんぼん (3), etc.
Use for most animals smaller than a human, including cats, dogs, fish, and bugs.
Used for small to medium-sized animals. Sound changes: いっぴき (1), にひき (2), さんびき (3).
Use for cars, computers, TVs, washing machines, etc.
Used for relatively large machines and vehicles. Uses Sino-Japanese numbers without sound changes.
Use for bound volumes like books, notebooks, and magazines.
Used for bound printed materials. Sound changes: いっさつ (1), にさつ (2), さんさつ (3).
In English, you can say 'three apples' directly. In Japanese, you must use a counter: りんごを三個 (さんこ). Saying りんごを三 is ungrammatical. The only exception is the generic つ counter, which attaches directly to the native number: 三つ (みっつ).
If you don't know the specific counter, つ (for up to ten) or 個 (こ) for small objects is often acceptable. For people, always use 人 (にん). For animals, 匹 (ひき) is safe for most pets and small creatures.
卵を二個買った。
I bought two eggs.
I picked up three stones.
友達が三人来た。
Three friends came.
I'll go alone (by myself).
Please give me one sheet of paper.
I bought three stamps.
ペンを二本持っています。
I have two pens.
One beer, please.
I have two cats.
There are three goldfish.
車を二台持っている。
I have two cars.
I bought one computer.
本を三冊借りた。
I borrowed three books.