数字
shù zì
Numbers · trad. 數字
数字 (shùzì) is the most common and general term for "numbers" in Mandarin Chinese. It refers to numerical figures, digits, or quantities in a broad sense.
When to use it
Neutral. It's appropriate in almost any situation. When talking about specific types of numbers, like a phone number or house number, you'll often use 号码 (hàomǎ).
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “SHOO-dzuh.” The first syllable is a falling tone, and the second is a light, neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 号码hào mǎnumber (e.g., phone number, house number)
- 数shùnumber, count, figure (often in compounds)
- 数量shù liàngquantity, amount
Examples
请写下这些数字。
qǐng xiě xià zhè xiē shù zì 。
Please write down these numbers.
你的电话号码是多少？
nǐ de diàn huà hào mǎ shì duō shǎo ？
What is your phone number?
这个数字很重要。
zhè ge shù zì hěn zhòng yào 。
This number is very important.
Pro tip: While 数字 is the general term for 'numbers,' when asking for a phone number, room number, or any identifying number, you'll almost always use 号码 (hàomǎ).
Related phrases
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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