片言

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The speech noun 片言 (かたこと) denotes fragmentary, halting, or limited speech.
• Basic usage: It modifies an expression in 片言の挨拶 and marks manner with で in 片言で話す.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Limited or halting speech
  • It focuses on limited, nonfluent speech rather than literally counting a single word.