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匹
counter for small animals · small animal · equal
N2On: ひつ、ひき、ぴき、びき
Memory Aid
This kanji looks like a simplified drawing of a tiny creature with four legs, perhaps a small dog or a cat. Use it to count these little animals.
'Hiki' (ひき) — Imagine a small animal making a 'hiccup' sound. This connects the sound to the idea of a 'small animal'.
Vocabulary
一匹いっぴきone (small animal)
何匹なんびきhow many (small animals)?
匹敵ひってきrivalry, match, to be a match for
子猫一匹こねこいっぴきone kitten
魚二匹さかなにひきtwo fish
Example Sentences
猫が二匹います。
There are two cats.
公園に犬が何匹かいました。
There were several dogs in the park.
その店には金魚が三匹います。
There are three goldfish in that store.
彼の能力は誰にも匹敵しない。
His ability is unmatched by anyone.