Japanese Counter for Pairs (組) – Counting Pairs and Groups
Learn how to count pairs or teams in Japanese using 組
In Japanese, the counter 「組」(くみ / kumi) is used to count pairs, teams, or groups of people working together.
This counter is commonly used in schools, competitions, events, and when talking about couples or teams.
Basic Pattern
Most numbers follow the pattern:
number + 組
Examples:
一組 (ひとくみ / hitokumi)
二組 (ふたくみ / futakumi)
三組 (さんくみ / sankumi)
Common Usage
三組のカップルが来ました。 (sankumi no kappuru ga kimashita)
Meaning: Three couples came.
このクラスは五組あります。 (kono kurasu wa gokumi arimasu)
Meaning: This class has five groups.
Compared to many other counters, the pronunciation of 組 is very regular and easy to learn.