The classifier 颗 (kē) is used to count small, round or spherical objects such as pearls, grains, teeth, hearts, satellites, and stars. It emphasizes the shape and size of the object, often small and discrete units.
These collocations highlight the typical objects counted by 颗.
Nuances and Usage Notes
颗 is often used when the object is small and round or considered as a single unit. It is not used for large or irregularly shaped objects. For example, you say 一颗心 (one heart) but not 一颗桌子 (one table).
Common Confusions
Do not confuse 颗 with 个 (gè), which is a general classifier. 颗 is more specific and used for small spherical items, while 个 is more general and can be used for many objects regardless of shape.
Using 颗 correctly helps convey precision and naturalness in counting small round objects.