cái
/kaːj/A classifier used to count or refer to objects, tools, or abstract concepts in Vietnamese.
Tôi muốn mua cái này.
I want to buy this.
Cái này rất đẹp.
This is very beautiful.
In Vietnamese, classifiers like 'cái' are essential for counting and referring to objects. They are often used with demonstrative pronouns (e.g., 'cái này' = this one).
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Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Usage in Questions
'Cái' is often used in questions to refer to objects, e.g., 'Cái này là gì?' (What is this?).
⚡Gold Rule
Classifier Agreement
In Vietnamese, classifiers like 'cái' must agree with the noun they modify in terms of countability and context.
📖Word Origin
Derived from the Vietnamese word 'cái,' which historically functioned as a classifier for objects and tools.
📝Usage Notes
The classifier 'cái' is versatile and can be used with a wide range of nouns. It is often used in informal and formal contexts alike. In some cases, it can be omitted in spoken Vietnamese, but it is generally required in formal writing.