What are Chinese units of measurement officially known as, and what is their literal meaning?

Chinese units of measurement are known as the *shìzhì*, which literally translates to 'market system'. This term reflects their historical use in commerce and daily life.

How do Chinese units of measurement relate to decimal and hexadecimal systems?

While Chinese numerals have been decimal (base-10) since the Shang dynasty, several traditional Chinese measures utilize a hexadecimal (base-16) system. This dual approach shows a blend of numerical bases in their measurement history.

How have Chinese dynasties historically managed measurement standards?

Historically, Chinese dynasties typically proclaimed standard measurements and meticulously documented their predecessors' systems in their official histories. This practice aimed to maintain consistency and record changes over time.

How does the People's Republic of China standardize its customary units in relation to the metric system?

The People's Republic of China maintains some customary units, known as market units, but these are standardized to round values within the metric system. For instance, the common *jin* or catty is precisely 500 grams.

How are traditional and metric units distinguished in Chinese terminology when confusion might arise?

To prevent confusion, the word 'market' (*shì*) is used to specify a traditional unit, while 'common' or 'public' (*gōng*) is used for its metric equivalent. This helps differentiate between the two systems in common usage.

How do the traditional units in Taiwan and Hong Kong differ from those in mainland China?

Taiwan's traditional units were standardized to Japanese values and then converted to a metric basis, such as the Taiwanese *ping* being about 3.306 square meters. Hong Kong, on the other hand, continues to use its traditional units, which are legally defined based on local equations with metric units, like the Hong Kong catty being precisely 604.78982 grams.

What is a notable characteristic of the names *lǐ* and *fēn* for small units?

A notable characteristic is that the names *lǐ* and *fēn* are used for small units across length, area, and mass measurements, but they refer to distinct types of measurements in each context, despite sharing the same name.

According to ancient texts, who is credited with creating the first Chinese measurement units and unifying length measurements?

According to the *Liji*, the legendary Yellow Emperor created the first measurement units. Later, Yu the Great, another legendary figure, unified length measurements due to inconsistencies caused by units derived from the human body, as stated in the *Xiao Erya* and *Kongzi Jiayu*.

What evidence exists for early decimal units in Chinese history?

Rulers featuring decimal units have been unearthed from Shang dynasty tombs, indicating the early use of a base-10 system in Chinese measurement.

How did measurement units evolve during the Zhou dynasty and after the Warring States period?

During the Zhou dynasty, measurement units became inconsistent as the king conferred powers to nobles, leading to variations between states. After the Warring States period, Qin Shi Huang unified China and subsequently standardized these measurement units across the empire.

When were Han dynasty measurements systematically documented?

During the Han dynasty, the standardized measurements from the Qin era were still in use and were systematically documented in the *Book of Han*.

What factor contributed to the consistency of the *chi* length over centuries?

The length of the *chi* remained relatively consistent over several centuries because astronomical instruments, which relied on precise measurements, needed to be accurate for calendar consistency.

What measurement law did the Beiyang government promulgate in 1915?

On January 7, 1915, the Beiyang government promulgated a measurement law that not only adopted the metric system as the standard but also established a set of Chinese-style measurements directly based on the Qing dynasty definitions, known as the *Yingzao Chi Kuping Zhi*.

What significant act did the Nationalist government adopt in 1929, and what were its implications for measurement systems?

On February 16, 1929, the Nationalist government adopted and promulgated The Weights and Measures Act. This act established the metric system as the official standard and restricted the newer Chinese units of measurement, known as the 'market-use system' (*shìyòngzhì*), to private sales and trade, effective January 1, 1930.

Where are the market units, based on rounded metric numbers, still used today in Republic of China-controlled territories?

These market units, which are based on rounded metric numbers, are still retained for use in the Republic of China-controlled territories of Kinmen and Matsu Islands today.

How did the Government of the People's Republic of China modify the market system in 1959, particularly concerning the catty?

On June 25, 1959, the Government of the People's Republic of China decreed that the market system would continue alongside the metric system, but with a modification: one *catty* (or *jin*) would be 500 grams and divided into 10 new *taels*, instead of the traditional 16 old *taels*.

What exemption was made from the 1959 conversion of the catty in the PRC?

An exemption was made for Chinese prescription drugs from the 1959 conversion of the *catty* to prevent potential errors in medicinal dosages.

What decree did the State Council of the PRC issue in 1984 regarding the market system and metrication?

On February 27, 1984, the State Council of the People's Republic of China decreed that the market system would remain acceptable until the end of 1990, ordering a transition to national legal measures by that time.

Which specific measurement area was exempted from mandatory metrication in the 1984 PRC decree?

Measures for farmland were specifically exempted from the mandatory metrication outlined in the 1984 PRC decree, pending further investigation and study.

What did the Hong Kong Metrication Ordinance of 1976 allow?

The Hong Kong Metrication Ordinance of 1976 allowed for a gradual replacement of the traditional measurement system in favor of the International System of Units (SI) metric system.

What measurement systems are legally defined and in widespread use in Hong Kong as of 2012?

As of 2012, the Weights and Measures Ordinance in Hong Kong defines and permits the legal use of three systems: metric, Imperial, and Chinese units, all of which are in widespread use.

What law did Macau publish in 1992 regarding measurement units, and what were its transitional provisions?

On August 24, 1992, Macau published Law No. 14/92/M, which permitted the use of Chinese units (similar to Hong Kong's), Imperial units, and United States customary units for five years from January 1, 1993, provided that corresponding SI values were also indicated. For three subsequent years, these units were permissible as secondary to the SI.

What are the three primary traditional units of length mentioned in ancient Chinese units?

The three primary traditional units of length mentioned are the *chi*, *bu*, and *li*. These units formed the basis of linear measurement in ancient China.

How did the ratios between *bu* and *chi*, and *li* and *bu*, vary over time in ancient China?

In ancient China, the ratios varied: 1 *bu* consisted of either 5 or 6 *chi*, and 1 *li* consisted of either 300 or 360 *bu*. These variations highlight the evolving nature of the measurement system.

What was the approximate length of a *chi* during the Shang dynasty?

During the Shang dynasty, the *chi* had approximate lengths of either 0.1675 meters or 0.1690 meters.

What artifact is referenced as a bronze ruler from the Han dynasty?

The source material references a gilded bronze ruler from the Western Han dynasty (206 BCE to 8 CE), excavated in Hanzhong City, which measured 1 *chi* as 231 mm.

Around which unit were most ancient Chinese weight units defined?

Most ancient Chinese weight units were defined around the *jin*, also known as the catty, serving as a fundamental measure of mass.

What was the relationship between *jin*, *liang*, and *zhu* in the ancient mass system?

In the ancient mass system, 1 *jin* was equivalent to 16 *liang*, and 1 *liang* was equivalent to 24 *zhu*, meaning 1 *jin* was 384 *zhu*.

What was the mass of a *jin* in the Pre-Qin era?

In the Pre-Qin era, the mass of a *jin* was approximately 250 grams.

What is the historical pronunciation and meaning of the unit *shi/dan*?

The unit *shi/dan* was pronounced the same as the noun 'stone' (*shí*) in the Eastern Han Dynasty. An alternative pronunciation, *dàn*, evolved later from the word for a carrying pole, reflecting its use as a measure of capacity or weight that could be carried.

How was the *zhu* unit further subdivided, and what did the smallest subdivision represent?

The *zhu* unit was further divided into 100 *shu*. The *shu* represented the mass of a proso millet grain, similar to the concept of a grain unit in other measurement systems.

What are the traditional Chinese units for daytime and nighttime?

Traditional Chinese units for daytime include *shí* or *shíchén*, while nighttime units include *diǎn* and *gēng*. These units were used to divide the day and night into specific intervals.

What was the metric value of a *miǎo* as defined in 1280?

The *miǎo* was defined in 1280 with a metric value of 144 milliseconds, representing a very small unit of time.

How was the major *kè* defined during most of Chinese history, and what was its metric value?

During most of Chinese history, the major *kè* was defined as 1/100 of a day, which equates to 14 minutes and 24 seconds in metric value. It later became 1/96 of a day after the Qing dynasty.

According to the *Book of Han*, what was the fundamental unit of volume, and what did it represent?

According to the *Book of Han*, the fundamental unit of volume was the *lun*, which represented the volume of 1200 grains of proso millet. This shows an early connection between agricultural products and standardized measurements.

What were the relationships between *lun*, *gě*, and *shēng* in ancient Chinese volume measurement?

In ancient Chinese volume measurement, 100 *lun* made a *gě*, and 10 *gě* made a *shēng*. A *shēng* was approximately 1 liter.

Beyond measuring grains, how else were grain amounts used in imperial China?

Beyond their use as a direct measure of volume, amounts of grains were also used as a measure of monthly and annual salary, particularly for official posts within the imperial bureaucracy.

What was the metric equivalent of the *chǐ* (Chinese foot) as promulgated in 1915?

As promulgated in 1915, the metric equivalent of the *chǐ* (Chinese foot) was 0.32 meters.

How did the metric value of the *chǐ* (Chinese foot) change with the 1930 law?

With the 1930 law, the metric value of the *chǐ* (Chinese foot) was redefined to 33 1/3 centimeters, or approximately 0.333 meters, making it a simple fraction of a metric unit.

What is the Chinese term for a metre, and how are SI prefixes applied to it?

The Chinese word for metre is *mǐ*. Chinese standard SI prefixes, such as 'kilo-' or 'centi-', can be added to *mǐ* to form larger or smaller metric length units.

How is 0.01 mm expressed in Chinese engineering terminology?

In the engineering field, 0.01 mm is expressed using the Chinese word *sī*. This demonstrates the adoption of traditional terms for precise metric values in specialized contexts.

What is the metric value of a *chek* (Hong Kong and Macau foot)?

The metric value of a *chek* (Hong Kong and Macau foot) is 371.475 mm, or approximately 1.219 feet.

What was the metric value of a *mǔ* (Chinese acre) as promulgated in 1915?

As promulgated in 1915, the metric value of a *mǔ* (Chinese acre) was 614.4 square meters.

How did the metric value of a *mǔ* (Chinese acre) change with the 1930 law, and what were its definitions?

With the 1930 law, the metric value of a *mǔ* (Chinese acre) was redefined to 666 2/3 square meters. It was defined as 6000 square *chi* per Article 5 of the 1930 Law, equivalent to 60 square *zhang*, and 1/15 of a hectare.

What is the metric value of a *mau5* (Macau acre)?

The metric value of a *mau5* (Macau acre) is 761.4 square meters, or approximately 910.6 square yards.

What is the traditional Chinese practice for naming area units that are derived from length units?

The traditional Chinese practice for naming area units derived from length units is to simply adopt the same name as the length unit, such as *cek3* for both a length and an area unit. Modern derivations, however, typically add a prefix like *fāng* or *píngfāng* meaning 'square'.

What was the metric value of a *shēng* (volume) as promulgated in 1915?

As promulgated in 1915, the metric value of a *shēng* (volume) was 1.0354688 liters.

How did the metric value of a *shēng* (volume) change with the 1930 law?

With the 1930 law, the metric value of a *shēng* (volume) was redefined to exactly 1 liter, aligning it directly with the metric system.

How do the market and metric *shēng* compare in modern Chinese volume units?

In modern Chinese volume units, the market *shēng* and the metric *shēng* coincide, both being equal to one liter. This simplifies conversion and understanding between the traditional and metric systems for this particular unit.

How are cubic units formed in Chinese?

Cubic units in Chinese are formed by adding the prefix *lìfāng*, meaning 'cubic', to any standard unit of length. For example, a cubic meter is *lìfāng mǐ*.

Chinese Units Of Measurement Wiki: Echoes of Empire: Decoding Ancient Chinese Measurement Systems

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What are Chinese Units?

The 'Market System' (Shìzhì)

Chinese units of measurement, formally known as the shìzhì ("market system"), represent the traditional metrological framework employed by the Han Chinese. While Chinese numerals have been decimal (base-10) since the Shang dynasty, it is noteworthy that several traditional Chinese measures historically utilized a hexadecimal (base-16) system.^[1]

Evolution and Standardization

Throughout China's dynastic history, local applications of these units often varied. However, successive Chinese dynasties consistently sought to proclaim and enforce standard measurements, meticulously documenting their predecessors' systems within their historical records. This ongoing process of standardization reflects a persistent effort to maintain order and consistency across vast territories.^[2]

Regional Adaptations Today

In contemporary mainland China, some customary units derived from the market system persist, but they have been rigorously standardized to round metric values. For instance, the common jin (斤) or catty is now precisely 500 grams. To distinguish, "market" (市, shì) specifies the traditional unit, while "common" or "public" (公, gōng) denotes the metric equivalent. Taiwan, influenced by Japanese standardization, adopted traditional units based on Japanese values, such as the ping (坪) for area, approximately 3.306 m². The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) continues to use its traditional units, which are legally defined by local equations with metric units; for example, the Hong Kong catty is precisely 604.78982 grams.^[3]

Historical Trajectories

Legendary Origins & Early Unification

According to ancient texts such as the Liji, the mythical Yellow Emperor is credited with establishing the earliest units of measurement. Early length units, as described in the Xiao Erya and Kongzi Jiayu, were purportedly derived from human body dimensions. However, these anthropometric measures led to inconsistencies, prompting the legendary Yu the Great to unify length measurements. Archaeological findings from Shang dynasty tombs have unearthed rulers featuring decimal units, indicating early sophistication in metrology.^[4]

Dynastic Standardization & Documentation

During the Zhou dynasty, the decentralization of power led to varied measurement units across different states. This inconsistency was rectified by Qin Shi Huang, who unified China and subsequently standardized its measurement system. These standardized measures continued into the Han dynasty and were systematically documented in the Book of Han. Astronomical instruments from subsequent centuries reveal remarkable stability in the length of the chi (尺), a crucial unit, as calendrical consistency was paramount. The traditional system underwent significant revision with the introduction of decimal units during the Ming dynasty.^[5]

Republican Era Reforms (1915-1930)

The Beiyang government, on January 7, 1915, enacted a measurement law that not only adopted the metric system as the primary standard but also formalized a set of Chinese-style measurements directly based on Qing dynasty definitions, known as the Yingzao Chi Kuping Zhi.^[6] Subsequently, on February 16, 1929, the Nationalist government promulgated The Weights and Measures Act, making the metric system the official standard. This act restricted the newer "market-use system" (市用制, shìyòngzhì), which featured rounded metric equivalents, to private transactions, effective January 1, 1930.^[7] These market units remain in use in the Republic of China-controlled territories of Kinmen and Matsu today.

PRC and Special Administrative Regions

The Government of the People's Republic of China continued to utilize the market system alongside the metric system, as mandated on June 25, 1959. A significant change was the redefinition of 1 catty (斤) to 500 grams, divided into 10 (new) taels (两) instead of the traditional 16, to simplify calculations. Chinese prescription drugs were exempted to prevent errors.^[8] On February 27, 1984, the State Council decreed the market system acceptable until the end of 1990, with a mandatory transition to legal measures, though farmland measurements were temporarily exempt.^[9] Hong Kong's 1976 Metrication Ordinance allowed a gradual shift to SI, but its Weights and Measures Ordinance legally defines metric, Imperial, and Chinese units, all of which remain in widespread use.^[10] Macau, in 1992, permitted Chinese, Imperial, and US units for a period, provided corresponding SI values were indicated, eventually transitioning them to secondary status to SI.^[11]

Ancient Units Unpacked

Length: Chi, Bu, Li

Traditional units of length included the chi (尺), bu (步), and li (里). The precise length of these units, and their inter-unit ratios, fluctuated significantly across different dynasties. Historically, 1 bu could consist of either 5 or 6 chi, while 1 li was defined as either 300 or 360 bu. This variability underscores the challenges in historical metrology.^[12]

The following table illustrates the approximate lengths of these units in meters across various dynasties:

Dynasty	Chi (m)	Bu (= 5 chi) (m)	Bu (= 6 chi) (m)	Li (= 300 bu) (m)	Li (= 360 bu) (m)
Shang (c. 1600 – c. 1045 BC)	0.1675		1.0050	301.50
Shang (c. 1600 – c. 1045 BC)	0.1690		1.0140	304.20
Western Zhou (c. 1045–771 BC)	0.1990		1.1940	358.20
Eastern Zhou (c. 771–256 BC)	0.2200		1.3200	396.00
	0.2270		1.3620	408.60
	0.2310		1.3860	415.80
Qin (c. 221–206 BC)	0.2260		1.3560	406.80
Han (c. 202 BC–9 AD; 25–220 AD)	0.2300		1.3800	414.00
Han (c. 202 BC–9 AD; 25–220 AD)	0.2381		1.4286	428.58
Wei - Sui (c. 220–266 AD; 581 to 618 AD)	0.2550		1.5300	459.00
Tang (c. 618–690 AD; 705–907 AD)	0.2465	1.2325		369.75	443.70
Tang (c. 618–690 AD; 705–907 AD)	0.2955	1.4775		443.25	531.90
Song (c. 960–1279 AD)	0.2700	1.3500		405.00	486.00
Northern Song (c. 960–1127 AD)	0.3080	1.5400		462.00	554.40
Ming (c. 1368–1644 AD)	0.3008–0.3190	1.5040–1.5950		451.20–478.50	541.44–574.20
Qing (c. 1636–1912 AD)	0.3080–0.3352	1.5400–1.6760		462.00–503.89	554.40–603.46

Mass: Jin, Liang, Zhu

Ancient Chinese weight units were primarily centered around the jin (斤) or catty. The unit shi/dan (石) was pronounced similarly to "stone" in the Eastern Han Dynasty, later evolving to dàn, akin to a carrying pole. A zhu (銖) was further subdivided into 100 shu (黍), representing the mass of a millet grain, analogous to the Western "grain" unit.^[13]

The following table details mass units in grams across various dynasties:

Dynasty		Shi/Dan (石) (120 jin)	Jun (鈞) (30 jin)	Jin (斤) (1 jin)	Liang (兩) (1/16 jin)	Zhu (銖) (1/384 jin)	Qian (錢) (1/160 jin)	Fen (分) (1/1600 jin)
Pre-Qin		30000	7500	250	15.625	0.651
Qin		30360	7590	253	15.8	0.66
Western Han		29760	7440	248	15.5	0.65
Eastern Han, Three Kingdoms, Jin dynasty		26400	6600	220	13.8	0.57
N&S D	S. Qi	39600	9900	330	20.625	0.859375
	Liang, Chen	26400	6600	220	13.8	0.57
	N. Wei & N. Qi	52800	13200	440	27.5	1.1458333333333
	N. Zhou	79200	19800	660	41.25	1.71875
Sui	Small system	26400	6600	220	13.8
Sui	Large system	79320	19830	661	41.3
Tang		79320	19830	661	41.3		4.13	0.41
Song, Yuan		75960		633	40		4	0.4
Ming, Qing		70800		590	36.9		3.69	0.369

Time: Ke, Shi, Geng

Traditional Chinese timekeeping involved a unique set of units. The kè (刻) was a significant unit, with a "major" kè historically defined as 1/100 of a day, later standardized to 1/96 of a day in the Qing dynasty, aligning with the modern kè of 15 minutes. The shí or shíchén (時/時辰) represented a two-hour period, serving as a daytime unit, while diǎn (點) and gēng (更) were specific nighttime units.^[14]

The following table outlines ancient Chinese time units and their modern equivalents:

Pinyin	Character	Relative value	Metric/modern value	Notes
miǎo	秒	1/100 fēn	144 milliseconds	Defined in 1280
fēn	分	1/6000 day	14.4 seconds
kè	刻	(minor) 1/6 major kè	144 seconds	The major kè was defined at 1/100 (rarely 1/96, 1/108, or 1/120) day during most of Chinese history. It became established at 1/96 day after the Qing dynasty, becoming the same as the modern kè.
kè	刻	(major) 1/100 day	14 minutes 24 seconds
shí/shíchén	時/時辰 (T) 时/时辰 (S)	1/12 day	2 hours	Daytime unit
diǎn	點 (T) 点 (S)	1/6 gēng	24 minutes	Nighttime unit
gēng	更	1/10 day	2.4 hours	Nighttime units
rì / tiān	日/天	(basic unit)	1 day

Volume: Lun, Ge, Sheng

As documented in the Book of Han, the foundational unit of volume was the lun (𧟧), defined as the volume occupied by 1200 grains of proso millet. From this, larger units were derived: 100 lun constituted a gě (合), and 10 gě formed a shēng (升), which is approximately 1 liter. For measuring larger quantities of dry goods, units such as the dǒu (斗, "ladle"), hú (斛), and shí or dàn (石, "[basket for] a stone's weight") were employed. These grain measures also served as a basis for determining monthly and annual salaries, particularly for officials within the imperial bureaucracy.^[15]

Modern Chinese Units

Mainland China's Market System

Modern Chinese units, particularly those in mainland China, are largely derived from traditional measures but have been precisely aligned with the metric system. The Republic of China government in 1915 promulgated a metric version of the Qing Dynasty's Yingzao Chi Kuping Zhi. Later, in 1930, the "market unit" (市制) system was introduced, redefining traditional units as simple fractions of metric units. The People's Republic of China further modified the mass system in 1959, notably dividing 1 jin into 10 liang instead of the traditional 16, to streamline calculations.^[16]

Hong Kong and Macau Variations

In Hong Kong and Macau, traditional units have distinct definitions. Mass units were standardized against the British pound, with the 1878 definition of 0.45359 kg. Volume units were inherited from the Qing dynasty, showing slight differences from the 1915 definitions. Length units in these regions are based on a historically larger chi found in Guangdong. Area units appear to be based on a different chi of 35.6 cm. All three systems—metric, Imperial, and Chinese—are legally recognized for trade in Hong Kong, reflecting its unique historical context.^[17]

Engineering and Metric Integration

Beyond the market system, Chinese terminology also integrates directly with metric units. For instance, the word for meter is 米 (mǐ), which can be combined with standard SI prefixes. In engineering, traditional terms are often repurposed for precise metric values; for example, 絲 (sī) is used to denote 0.01 mm, and 忽 (hū) for 1 µm. This dual system highlights a practical approach to measurement in a rapidly modernizing society.^[18]

Modern Length Units

Mainland China (1930 Standards)

The 1930 standards for length units in mainland China established a clear relationship with the metric system, often using rounded metric values for traditional terms. For example, the chǐ (尺), or Chinese foot, was set at 33 1/3 cm, and the lǐ (里), or Chinese mile, at exactly 500 meters. This standardization aimed to simplify conversions and integrate traditional measures into a modern framework.^[19]

Table of Chinese length units effective in 1930:

Pinyin	Character	Relative value	Metric value	Imperial value	Notes
háo	毫	1/10 000	33 1/3 µm	0.00131 in	Chinese mil
lí	厘 (T) or 釐 (S)	1/1000	1/3 mm	0.0131 in	Chinese calibre
fēn	市分	1/100	3 1/3 mm	0.1312 in	Chinese line
cùn	市寸	1/10	3 1/3 cm	1.312 in	Chinese inch
chǐ	市尺	1	33 1/3 cm	13.12 in	Chinese foot
zhàng	市丈	10	3 1/3 m	3.645 yd	Chinese yard
yǐn	引	100	33 1/3 m	36.45 yd	Chinese chain
lǐ	市里	1500	500 m	546.8 yd	Chinese mile

Hong Kong & Macau Length

In Hong Kong and Macau, specific traditional length units like fān (分), cyun (寸), and cek (尺) have distinct metric and imperial equivalents. For instance, 1 cek, or Hong Kong/Macau foot, is precisely 371.475 mm. These units reflect a blend of Chinese tradition and historical British influence, maintaining their relevance in local commerce and daily life.^[20]

Table of Chinese length units in Hong Kong and Macau:

Jyutping	Character	English	Portuguese	Relative value	Metric value	Imperial value	Notes
fan1	分	fan	condorim	1/100	3.71475 mm	0.1463 in
cyun3	寸	tsun	ponto	1/10	37.1475 mm	1.463 in	Hong Kong and Macau inch
cek3	尺	chek	côvado	1	371.475 mm	1.219 ft	Hong Kong and Macau foot

Engineering & Metric Length

For engineering applications, Chinese terminology often directly maps to metric units. The term 米 (mǐ) is used for meter, and standard SI prefixes are applied. Smaller units like 忽 (hū) for 1 µm and 絲 (sī) for 10 µm are common in technical contexts, demonstrating a practical adaptation of traditional linguistic roots to modern scientific precision. A kilometer is also known as 公里 (gōnglǐ), a "metric lǐ".^[21]

Table of Chinese length units in engineering:

Pinyin	Character	Relative value	Metric value	Notes
hū	忽	1/1 000 000	1 µm	Authorized name: 微米
sī	絲 (T) or 丝 (S)	1/100 000	10 µm	Authorized name: 忽米
háo	毫	1/10 000	100 µm	Authorized name: 絲米 (T) or 丝米 (S)
lí	厘 (T) or 釐 (S)	1/1000	1 mm	Authorized name: 毫米
fēn	公分	1/100	10 mm	Authorized name: 厘米 (T) or 釐米 (S)
cùn	公寸	1/10	100 mm	Authorized name: 分米
chǐ	公尺	1	1 m	Authorized name: 米
zhàng	公丈	10	10 m	Authorized name: 十米
yǐn	公引	100	100 m	Authorized name: 百米
lǐ	公里	1000	1000 m	This li is not the small li above, which has a different character and tone

Modern Mass Units

PRC Mass Units (Post-1959)

Since 1959, the People's Republic of China has standardized its market mass units with a key modification: 1 jin (斤) or catty is precisely 500 grams, but it is now divided into 10 liang (两) instead of the traditional 16. This decimalization simplifies calculations and aligns with modern metric practices, while retaining traditional unit names. Units like lí (釐) and fēn (分) also have precise metric equivalents.^[22]

Table of mass units in the People's Republic of China since 1959:

Pinyin	Character	Relative value	Metric value	Imperial value	Notes
lí	市釐	1/10 000	50 mg	0.001764 oz	cash
fēn	市分	1/1000	500 mg	0.01764 oz	candareen
qián	市錢	1/100	5 g	0.1764 oz	mace or Chinese dram
liǎng	市兩	1/10	50 g	1.764 oz	tael or Chinese ounce
jīn	市斤	1	500 g	1.102 lb	catty or Chinese pound; formerly 16 liang = 1 jin
dàn	市擔	100	50 kg	110.2 lb	picul or Chinese hundredweight

Hong Kong & Macau Mass

In Hong Kong and Macau, mass units like gān (斤) and daam (擔) are also precisely defined. The Hong Kong and Macau gān (catty) is 604.78982 grams, and 1 gān is traditionally divided into 16 loeng (兩) or taels. These units are integral to local trade, particularly for goods like fresh produce and precious metals. Hong Kong also maintains specific troy units for trading gold and silver, such as the fēn troy (金衡分) and liáng troy (金衡兩).^[23]

Table of Chinese mass units in Hong Kong and Macau:

Jyutping	Character	English	Portuguese	Relative value	Relation to Traditional Chinese Units (Macau)	Metric value	Imperial value	Notes
lei4	釐	li, cash	liz	1/16 000	1/10 condorim	37.79931 mg	0.02133 dr	Not defined in Hong Kong. Macanese definition may not be correct when dividing catty.
fan1	分	fen, fan, candareen	condorim	1/1600	1/10 maz	377.9936375 mg	0.2133 dr	Macanese definition of 377.9931 mg may not be correct when dividing catty.
cin4	錢	qian, tsin, mace	maz	1/160	1/10 tael	3.779936375 g	2.1333 dr	Macanese definition of 3.779931 g may not be correct when dividing catty.
loeng2	兩	liang, leung, tael	tael	1/16	1/16 cate	37.79936375 g	1.3333 oz	Macanese definition of 37.79931 g may not be correct when dividing catty.
gan1	斤	jin, kan, catty	cate	1	1/100 pico	604.78982 g	1.3333 lb	Hong Kong and Macau share the definition.
daam3	擔	dan, tam, picul	pico	100	None	60.478982 kg	133.3333 lb	Hong Kong and Macau share the definition.
		Ding				1000 kg

Table of mass (Hong Kong troy) units:

English	Character	Relative value	Metric value	Imperial value
fen (candareen) troy	金衡分	1/100	374.29 mg	0.096 drt
qian (mace) troy	金衡錢	1/10	3.7429 g	0.96 drt
liang (tael) troy	金衡兩	1	37.429 g	1.2 ozt

Metric Mass Units

The Chinese term for gram is 克 (kè), which readily accepts standard SI prefixes. A kilogram is frequently referred to as 公斤 (gōngjīn), literally a "metric jin". This nomenclature highlights the integration of traditional concepts with modern scientific standards, providing a clear and intuitive system for mass measurement in contemporary China.^[24]

Modern Time Units

Contemporary Timekeeping

Modern Chinese time units largely correspond directly to Western units, reflecting global standardization in timekeeping. The miǎo (秒) is 1 second, fēn (分) is 1 minute, and shí (時) or xiǎoshí (小時) is 1 hour. The traditional kè (刻) has been standardized to 15 minutes, or one quarter-hour, a definition that has remained consistent since the Qing dynasty. The term diǎn (點) is also commonly used for reporting the time of day, as in "3 diǎn" for 3 o'clock.^[25]

Table of modern time units:

Pinyin	Character	Value	Notes
miǎo	秒	1 second
fēn	分	1 minute
kè	刻	15 minutes (i.e. one quarter-hour)	Same definition since Qing dynasty
shí xiǎoshí	時小時	1 hour	shí is more technical than xiǎoshí. Also used is diǎn for reporting the time-of-day (3 diǎn means 3 o'clock)
rì / tiān	日/天	1 day

Additionally, the ancient shíchén is occasionally used with the value of exactly 2 hours.

Modern Volume Units

Mainland China (1930 Standards)

The 1930 standards for volume units in mainland China also saw a comprehensive metric alignment. The shēng (升), a traditional unit, was precisely equated to 1 liter, making it a direct metric equivalent. Other units like cuò (撮) for milliliter and dǒu (斗) for decaliter were also standardized, providing a clear and consistent system for measuring cereal grains and other commodities.^[26]

Table of Chinese volume units effective in 1930:

Pinyin	Character	Relative value	Metric value	US value	Imperial value	Notes
cuò	撮	1/1000	1 mL	0.0338 fl oz	0.0352 fl oz	millilitre
sháo	勺	1/100	10 mL	0.3381 fl oz	0.3520 fl oz	centilitre
gě	合	1/10	100 mL	3.381 fl oz	3.520 fl oz	decilitre
shēng	市升	1	1 L	2.113 pt	1.760 pt	litre
dǒu	市斗	10	10 L	21.13 pt 2.64 gal	17.60 pt 2.20 gal	decalitre
dàn	市石	100	100 L	26.41 gal	22.0 gal	hectolitre

Macau Volume Units

Macau's volume units, such as cyut (撮), gam dak (甘特), and sek (石), also have specific metric equivalents, reflecting a local adaptation of traditional measures. These units are used in various contexts, from daily commerce to specific agricultural measurements, showcasing the enduring legacy of traditional systems alongside modern metrology.^[27]

Table of Chinese volume units in Macau:

Jyutping	Character	Relation to the Traditional Chinese Units (Macau)	Metric value
cyut3	撮	1/10 甘特	1.031 L
gam1 dak6	甘特	1/10 石	10.31 L
sek6	石	None	103.1 L

Metric Volume Units

In the realm of volume, the market shēng and the metric liter coincide, both being equal to one liter. This direct equivalence simplifies international trade and scientific communication. The Chinese standard SI prefixes can be applied to shēng to denote smaller or larger metric volumes. Furthermore, units of volume can be derived from any standard unit of length by using the prefix 立方 (lìfāng, "cubic"), as in 立方米 (lìfāng mǐ) for one cubic meter.^[28]

Historiography of Measures

Documenting Diverse Systems

The study of Chinese units of measurement is a complex field, given the hundreds of unofficial measures that were historically in use. Until the 1980s, Wu Chenglou's 1937 History of Chinese Measurement served as the standard reference, primarily relying on surviving literary accounts. However, more recent scholarship has placed a greater emphasis on archaeological discoveries, which provide tangible evidence of historical metrological practices.^[29]

Modern Scholarly Contributions

Contemporary research, such as Qiu Guangming and Zhang Yanming's 2005 bilingual work, Concise History of Ancient Chinese Measures and Weights, synthesizes these archaeological findings, offering a more comprehensive understanding. For a broader overview, a detailed bibliography organized by historical period was compiled by Cao et al. in 2012, and a shorter list can be found in Wilkinson's 2000 Chinese History. These works collectively highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of Chinese measurement systems throughout history.^[30]

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References

1 zhu was in turn divided into 100 shu (é»). Shu meaning proso millet, i.e. the mass of a millet grain. Similar to grain (unit).

Yearbook HK. "Yearbook." Metrication. Retrieved on 26 April 2007.

Cap. 68 WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ORDINANCE

A full list of references for this article are available at the Chinese units of measurement Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for expert historical, linguistic, or metrological consultation. While every effort has been made to present accurate information, historical data, especially concerning ancient measurement systems, can be subject to interpretation and ongoing research. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified experts for specific academic or research needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

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Echoes of Empire: Decoding Ancient Chinese Measurement Systems

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What are Chinese Units? 📜

📦 The 'Market System' (Shìzhì)

🌐 Evolution and Standardization

🌍 Regional Adaptations Today

Historical Trajectories ⏳

👑 Legendary Origins & Early Unification

📜 Dynastic Standardization & Documentation

🏛️ Republican Era Reforms (1915-1930)

🇨🇳 PRC and Special Administrative Regions

Ancient Units Unpacked 🏛️

📏 Length: Chi, Bu, Li

⚖️ Mass: Jin, Liang, Zhu

⏰ Time: Ke, Shi, Geng

🏺 Volume: Lun, Ge, Sheng

Modern Chinese Units 📏

🇨🇳 Mainland China's Market System

🇭🇰🇲🇴 Hong Kong and Macau Variations

⚙️ Engineering and Metric Integration

Modern Length Units 📐

📏 Mainland China (1930 Standards)

📐 Hong Kong & Macau Length

🔬 Engineering & Metric Length

Modern Mass Units ⚖️

⚖️ PRC Mass Units (Post-1959)

🪙 Hong Kong & Macau Mass

📊 Metric Mass Units

Modern Time Units ⏰

⏱️ Contemporary Timekeeping

Modern Volume Units 🏺

💧 Mainland China (1930 Standards)

🌊 Macau Volume Units

🧪 Metric Volume Units

Historiography of Measures 📚

🔍 Documenting Diverse Systems

📖 Modern Scholarly Contributions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What are Chinese Units?

The 'Market System' (Shìzhì)

Evolution and Standardization

Regional Adaptations Today

Historical Trajectories

Legendary Origins & Early Unification

Dynastic Standardization & Documentation

Republican Era Reforms (1915-1930)

PRC and Special Administrative Regions

Ancient Units Unpacked

Length: Chi, Bu, Li

Mass: Jin, Liang, Zhu

Time: Ke, Shi, Geng

Volume: Lun, Ge, Sheng

Modern Chinese Units

Mainland China's Market System

Hong Kong and Macau Variations

Engineering and Metric Integration

Modern Length Units

Mainland China (1930 Standards)

Hong Kong & Macau Length

Engineering & Metric Length

Modern Mass Units

PRC Mass Units (Post-1959)

Hong Kong & Macau Mass

Metric Mass Units

Modern Time Units

Contemporary Timekeeping

Modern Volume Units

Mainland China (1930 Standards)

Macau Volume Units

Metric Volume Units

Historiography of Measures

Documenting Diverse Systems

Modern Scholarly Contributions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice