Comparison of '趟' (tàng) and '次' (cì)

Description

Both '趟' (tàng) and '次' (cì) are measure words in Chinese used to indicate the frequency or occurrence of an action. However, they are used in different contexts and convey slightly different nuances.

趟 (tàng)

'趟' is a measure word used specifically for trips or journeys. It emphasizes the entire trip, including the starting point, the process, and the destination. It is often used when talking about travels or visits.

Examples

• 我昨天去了一趟超市。(Wǒ zuótiān qùle yī tàng chāoshì.) - I went to the supermarket yesterday.
• 他每周都要跑一趟银行。(Tā měi zhōu dōu yào pǎo yī tàng yínháng.) - He goes to the bank once a week.

次 (cì)

'次' is a more general measure word used to count the number of times an action occurs. It can be used for any kind of action and does not specify the nature of the trip or journey.

Examples

• 我去过中国三次。(Wǒ qùguò Zhōngguó sān cì.) - I have been to China three times.
• 他昨天打了两次电话。(Tā zuótiān dǎle liǎng cì diànhuà.) - He made two phone calls yesterday.

Key Points

• '趟' (tàng) is used specifically for trips or journeys, emphasizing the whole trip.
• '次' (cì) is a general measure word for the number of times an action occurs, applicable to any action.
• Use '趟' when referring to the entirety of a trip or journey, and '次' when simply counting occurrences of an action.