department, ministry

HSK 4 10 strokes
Stroke order animation for 部

Words with this Character

Usage of

The character (bù) is commonly used to refer to a department or section within an organization, such as a company or government ministry. For example, 销售 means 'sales department.'

Besides organizational units, is also used as a measure word for films, books, or other works, indicating a 'part' or 'volume.' For instance, 电影 means 'a movie' and refers to 'the third part' of a series.

Common collocations

  • 公司 (company department): refers to a specific division within a company.
  • 部门 (bùmén): a formal word for 'department' or 'section.'
  • 电影 (yí bù diànyǐng): one movie, a common measure word usage.

Notes

When used as a measure word, is often paired with media like movies, books, or TV series. It is different from other measure words like or because it specifically counts parts or volumes of works.

Avoid confusing as a standalone noun meaning 'part' with its use as a measure word; context usually clarifies the meaning.

Example Sentences

他在公司的销售部工作。

Tā zài gōngsī de xiāoshòu bù gōngzuò.

He works in the sales department of the company.

这部电影非常感人。

Zhè bù diànyǐng fēicháng gǎnrén.

This movie is very touching.

请把这本书的第三部读完。

Qǐng bǎ zhè běn shū de dì sān bù dú wán.

Please finish reading the third part of this book.