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March 24, 2026
数字(數字)shùzì(shu4zi4)
数字 (shùzì) refers to a numeral or digit used to represent a number. It can denote both mathematical figures and digital concepts, making it widely used in contexts ranging from mathematics to electronics. The term encompasses any numerical representation, including integers, decimals, and even binary code.
Strokes19Frequency#1832DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, numbers hold significant meanings, with certain digits being considered lucky or unlucky (like 8 for prosperity). The term 数字 is frequently used in business contexts, especially when discussing financial figures or statistics.
Memory Tip
Think of the character 数 (shù) as a tall figure counting numbers, and 字 (zì) as a written character. Visualize a giant with fingers extending to the sky, each finger representing a digit, helping you remember that 数字 is all about numbers.
Meanings of 数字
shùzì(shu4zi4)
1numeral
2digit
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About 数字
数字Simplified
數字Traditional
19Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#1832Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L4HSK 3.0L4ElementaryTOCFLL2HSKKL1CEFRA1
Podcast: 数字
Podcast: 数字
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AI Study Notes for 数字
Quick Contrast
数字 (shùzì) vs 数目 (shùmù) — use 数字 for individual numerals or digits, while 数目 refers to the total count or amount.
Usage Notes
Be careful to use 数字 in contexts specifically referring to numerals, as it differs from the broader term 'number' in English. It is often used in both formal and informal settings, but avoid using it in overly poetic contexts. Common collocations include '电话号码' (telephone number) and '数字化' (digitization).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, 数字 connects well with other numerical terms like '数量' (quantity) or '数字游戏' (number games). Students should focus on its applications in both everyday conversation and technical fields, such as computing.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 数字 with 号码 (hào mǎ), thinking they are interchangeable. Remember that 数字 refers to the numeral itself, while 号码 is a specific type of number used for identification, such as a phone number.
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Pronunciation of 数字
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数字 (shùzì) refers to a numeral or digit used to represent a number. It can denote both mathematical figures and digital concepts, making it widely used in contexts ranging from mathematics to electronics. The term encompasses any numerical representation, including integers, decimals, and even binary code.
When to use 数字
Be careful to use 数字 in contexts specifically referring to numerals, as it differs from the broader term 'number' in English. It is often used in both formal and informal settings, but avoid using it in overly poetic contexts. Common collocations include '电话号码' (telephone number) and '数字化' (digitization).
数字 or something close to it
数字 (shùzì) vs 数目 (shùmù) — use 数字 for individual numerals or digits, while 数目 refers to the total count or amount.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 数字 with 号码 (hào mǎ), thinking they are interchangeable. Remember that 数字 refers to the numeral itself, while 号码 is a specific type of number used for identification, such as a phone number.
Write 数字
数
字
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Practice writing 数字 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
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Grammar Patterns of 数字
数字 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 6 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.
