Teacher Liu, I find counting in Chinese very complicated! Why can’t I say '一马' but have to say '一匹马'? What does '匹' mean?

That’s a Chinese measure word! Every noun has its own 'exclusive partner'. '匹' is used specifically for large animals, especially horses. Look at the shape of '匹'—doesn’t it look a bit like a horse’s body?

It does look a little like it! Then why is '条' used for fish? I always get confused.

Great question! '条' is used for long, narrow things. Fish, rivers, roads, and pants all use '条' because they are long and thin. Imagine them as being like a rope.

So it’s divided by shape! Then why do both paper and tables use '张'?

'张' comes from the meaning 'to spread out'. It’s used for flat things that can be spread. Paper can be spread out, and tables have flat surfaces, so both use '张'. Does that make it easier to remember?

That’s awesome! So measure words actually have logic behind them. But what if I forget the correct one?

You can always use the universal measure word '个'. It’s not the most accurate, but people will understand you. Still, using the correct measure word will instantly make your Chinese sound much more authentic!