Definition
阵 (zhèn) is a classifier for short bursts or spells of wind, rain, pain, applause, laughter, etc. — something that comes and goes in a wave. It differs from 顿 (dùn), which is used for meals or for a complete bout of an action like a beating or scolding. 阵 focuses on the sudden, transient nature, while 顿 emphasizes a single, complete occurrence.
classifier
classifier for short bursts or spells of windrainpainapplauseetc.
Easily confused
- 轻qīnglook-alikelight (in weight, not heavy)
- 真zhēnsound-alikereally, truly
- 镇zhènsound-alike(noun) small town
- 针zhēnsound-alikeneedle (sewing, pin)
- 震zhènsound-aliketo shake, to vibrate, to jolt
- 枕zhěnsound-aliketo rest one's head on
Examples
- 。Wàimiàn chuánlái yí zhèn xiàoshēng.A burst of laughter came from outside.
- 。Tā gǎndào yí zhèn ěxīn.He felt a wave of nausea.
- ，。Xià le yí zhèn yǔ, hěn kuài jiù tíng le.It rained for a short while, then stopped quickly.
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