# liang

/ˈɫjæŋ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/liang
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a traditional unit of weight used in China for measuring things like silver or medicine. It is often called a 'tael' in English.

For teachers: a traditional Chinese unit of mass, historically used as a currency weight for silver. While the exact weight has varied by region and era, it was standardized in modern China at 50 grams.

## Examples

- The merchant weighed the silver in liang.
- In historical Chinese dramas, characters often pay for their meals using several liang of silver.
- The standardization of weights and measures meant that one liang became exactly one-tenth of a jin, simplifying trade across different provinces.

## Usage notes

- Often used in historical or traditional contexts; frequently translated as 'tael' in Western literature.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.