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March 24, 2026
二èr(er4)
The character '二' (èr) means 'two' and is used to denote the number 2 in various contexts, including counting, mathematics, and everyday conversation. In Beijing dialect, it can also colloquially mean 'stupid', adding a layer of nuance to its usage depending on the context.
Strokes2Radical二Frequency#664DifficultyEasy
Cultural note
'二' is also significant in Chinese culture as it is associated with duality and balance, often appearing in sayings and idioms that emphasize pairs or opposites. It also appears in traditional Chinese festivities where pairs are considered auspicious.
Memory tip
Imagine two ducks quacking 'èr' in unison. The character '二' resembles two horizontal lines, symbolizing the number two. Picture these two lines as the two ducks standing side by side, reinforcing both the pronunciation and meaning.
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AI study notes for 二
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include confusing '二' with '一' (yī), which means 'one'. It’s essential to remember that '二' is used in both formal and informal situations, especially when counting. Watch out for the tone; 'èr' must be pronounced with a falling tone to convey the correct meaning.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 1 word, '二' is foundational for beginners and connects well with other numbers like '一' (yī) and '三' (sān). Focus on mastering its pronunciation and its role in simple counting and expressions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '二' with '两' (liǎng), which is used specifically when counting objects. For example, saying '二个' instead of '两个' is incorrect; it should be '两个' for 'two items'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 二
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Example
Learning Lab
Knowing 二 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
The character '二' (èr) means 'two' and is used to denote the number 2 in various contexts, including counting, mathematics, and everyday conversation. In Beijing dialect, it can also colloquially mean 'stupid', adding a layer of nuance to its usage depending on the context.
When to use 二
Common mistakes include confusing '二' with '一' (yī), which means 'one'. It’s essential to remember that '二' is used in both formal and informal situations, especially when counting. Watch out for the tone; 'èr' must be pronounced with a falling tone to convey the correct meaning.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '二' with '两' (liǎng), which is used specifically when counting objects. For example, saying '二个' instead of '两个' is incorrect; it should be '两个' for 'two items'.
Write 二
二
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Practice writing 二 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
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Grammar patterns of 二
二 functions as a number. It almost always combines with a measure word before a noun (三个人, 五本书). Standalone numbers are rare outside of math or counting. It carries 5 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
