数到三
shǔ dào sān
Count to three · trad. 數到三
数到三 (shǔ dào sān) means "count to three." It is commonly used when giving instructions, starting a game, or as a playful warning, especially by parents.
What does 数到三 (shǔ dào sān) mean?
数到三 (shǔ dào sān) means “count to three” in English.
When to use it
Neutral and widely understood. It's often used with children for games or as a gentle prompt. For a more general "count," use 数数 (shǔ shù).
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “shoo DAO sahn.” 数 dips (third tone), 到 falls (fourth tone), and 三 is high and level (first tone).
Other ways to say it
- 数一二三shǔ yī èr sāncount one two three
- 倒数三秒dàoshǔ sān miǎocount down three seconds
- 数数shǔshucount (generally)
Examples
我们数到三，然后一起跳。
wǒmen shǔ dào sān, ránhòu yīqǐ tiào.
We'll count to three, then jump together.
妈妈说数到三，你就要把玩具收好。
māma shuō shǔ dào sān, nǐ jiù yào bǎ wánjù shōuhǎo.
Mom said count to three, and you have to put away your toys.
孩子们喜欢玩捉迷藏，每次都从数到三开始。
háizimen xǐhuan wán zhuōmícáng, měicì dōu cóng shǔ dào sān kāishǐ.
Kids love playing hide-and-seek, always starting by counting to three.
Pro tip: When parents use "数到三" as a warning, it often implies a consequence if the child doesn't comply by the time "三" is reached.
Related phrases
跟我读 · Repeat after me大声一点 · A little louder一二三 · 1 2 3
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