[The textual research of "body cun"]

Although the concept of "body cun" was proposed in Neijing (Inner Canon of Huangdi), it was matured in Qianjin Yaofang (Invaluable Prescriptions for Ready Reference) in Tang Dynasty, so it was believed by the majority of physicians this term was firstly proposed in Qianjin Yaofang. In this study, the literature regarding "body cun" was reviewed, and it was believed the term was originated from Chongguangbuzheng Huangdineijingsuwen, when WANG bing noted Suwen (The Plain Questions). The connotation of the "body cun" included multiple meanings, such as bone cun, finger cun and so on, and the points of view were different in different periods, different doctors or scholars. From the respective explanation of bone cun and finger cun to the combination use in Ming Dynasty and Qing Dynasty, the extension of the term was embodied. After the establishment of term' s connotation and extension, the translation of the term was accurate and clear.