ce2尺

Jyutpingce2

Yaleché

Uncommon

Definition

Ruler or measuring tape; any tool used to measure distance.

colloquialschoolother

How it's used

While 尺 refers to the general concept of a measuring tool, locals almost exclusively use the compound 間尺 when referring to the standard rigid ruler used for school or office work. Using just 尺 on its own can sometimes sound a bit vague or slightly formal, as if you are referring to the unit of measurement rather than the physical object. If you are asking for a school ruler, always opt for 間尺 to be perfectly clear.

Measure word

baa2把bá

Examples

ngo5我wan2搵m4唔dou3到baa2把cek3尺lai4嚟waa2畫zik6直sin3線aa4呀。

I cannot find the ruler to draw a straight line.

Common phrases

gaan3間cek2尺

ruler

jyun5軟cek3尺

measuring tape

Common mistake

Do not confuse the noun 尺 with the verb 呎, which is a unit of measurement equivalent to a foot. Beginners often mix up the characters because they look similar and share the same pronunciation in many contexts.