How Lucky and Unlucky Numbers Shape Chinese Traditions and Modern Life

Numbers play a vital role in Chinese culture, often carrying deep symbolic meanings that influence various aspects of daily life, from business decisions to personal choices. This profound connection between numbers and luck stems from a complex blend of linguistic, historical, and cultural factors.

Here’s an exploration of some of the most notable lucky and unlucky numbers in Chinese tradition, their significance, their role in modern Chinese internet slang, and the occasions where their usage is particularly important.

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Lucky Numbers

while the numbers 8, 6, and 9 are among the most widely recognized lucky numbers in Chinese culture, other numbers like 2, 3, 5, and 10 also carry positive connotations and are considered auspicious.

These numbers are often chosen in various contexts, from personal life decisions to business endeavors, to attract good fortune, harmony, and prosperity. Understanding the significance of these numbers provides a deeper insight into the rich tapestry of Chinese cultural beliefs and practices.

8 (八, bā)

The number 8 is perhaps the most famous lucky number in Chinese culture. The pronunciation of 8 (bā) sounds similar to the word for “prosper” or “wealth” (发, fā). This phonetic resemblance makes 8 synonymous with good fortune and success. The affinity for the number 8 is so strong that people go to great lengths to incorporate it into their lives. For instance, it is common to see phone numbers, addresses, and license plates with multiple 8s, often at a premium cost. The Beijing Olympics, a significant event symbolizing international recognition and success, commenced on 8/8/08 at 8:08:08 PM.

6 (六, liù)

The number 6 is another auspicious number, associated with smooth progress and success. Its pronunciation (liù) sounds like the word for “flow” (流, liú), which suggests everything will go smoothly without obstacles. This belief is particularly prevalent in business, where the number 6 is used to signify smooth operations and a path to wealth.

9 (九, jiǔ)

The number 9 holds a special place due to its association with longevity and eternity. In ancient China, 9 was considered the highest single-digit number, symbolizing the Emperor’s supreme power and eternal reign. It is often used in contexts related to the Imperial family and seen as a number of completeness and perfection.

2 (二, èr)

The number 2 is considered lucky because it symbolizes harmony and balance. The Chinese saying “好事成双” (hǎo shì chéng shuāng) translates to “good things come in pairs,” reinforcing the idea that the number 2 brings about good fortune and harmony. This belief is particularly prevalent in events like weddings, where pairs are seen as a symbol of partnership and unity.

3 (三, sān)

The number 3 is associated with growth and vitality because it sounds similar to the word “生” (shēng), which means “to live” or “life.” In traditional Chinese culture, the number 3 often represents the three stages of life: birth, marriage, and death, each considered an important and auspicious phase. Therefore, 3 is generally seen as a positive number that signifies a flourishing and successful life.

5 (五, wǔ)

The number 5 is regarded as lucky due to its association with the five elements (五行, wǔ xíng): wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. These elements are fundamental to Chinese philosophy and are believed to be the building blocks of the universe. The balance and harmony of these elements are considered essential for a prosperous life. Additionally, the number 5 is associated with the five blessings (五福, wǔ fú): longevity, wealth, health, virtue, and a peaceful death, all of which are highly valued in Chinese culture.

10 (十, shí)

The number 10 symbolizes completeness and perfection. In Chinese culture, the number 10 represents a full cycle and is often associated with wholeness and fulfillment. This belief is reflected in the phrase “十全十美” (shí quán shí měi), which means “perfect in every way” or “complete and beautiful.”

Unlucky Numbers

4 (四, sì)

In stark contrast to 8, the number 4 is widely regarded as unlucky. This superstition arises from its pronunciation (sì), which sounds very similar to the word for “death” (死, sǐ). As a result, the number 4 is avoided in many settings, similar to how some Western cultures avoid the number 13. Buildings often skip the fourth floor, and products rarely have model numbers containing the digit 4. This aversion can influence major life decisions, such as choosing a wedding date or a phone number.

7 (七, qī)

While not as universally avoided as 4, the number 7 can be considered unlucky in certain contexts. The seventh month of the lunar calendar is Ghost Month, during which it is believed that spirits and ghosts come to visit the living. This period is associated with inauspicious events, and people often avoid significant activities like moving house or getting married during this time.

Is 13 Unlucky in Chinese Culture?

The number 13 is not traditionally considered unlucky in Chinese culture. The superstition surrounding the number 13 as unlucky is primarily a Western belief, particularly prevalent in Western countries like the United States and various European nations. In Chinese culture, the numbers 4 (due to its pronunciation similar to the word for “death”) and sometimes 7 (associated with the Ghost Month) are more prominently viewed as unlucky.

However, in recent times, due to globalization and cultural exchange, some aspects of Western superstitions, including the fear of the number 13, have permeated into Chinese society, particularly in urban areas and among younger generations who are more exposed to Western media. Despite this, the number 13 does not hold the same deep-seated negative connotations in traditional Chinese culture as it does in the West.

Numbers in Chinese Internet Slang

In addition to their cultural and superstitious meanings, numbers also play a significant role in Chinese internet slang, often used to convey phrases or sentiments quickly and efficiently through homophonic wordplay.

520 (wǔ èr líng)

The number 520 is one of the most famous examples of numerical internet slang. Pronounced “wǔ èr líng,” it sounds like “wǒ ài nǐ” (我爱你), which means “I love you.” As a result, 520 has become a popular numerical shorthand for expressing love and affection, particularly in digital communication and on social media.

521 (wǔ èr yī)

Similar to 520, the number 521 (wǔ èr yī) sounds like “wǒ ài nǐ” but with a slight variation, often used interchangeably to mean “I love you.” It provides an alternative for expressing the same sentiment.

1314 (yī sān yī sì)

The number sequence 1314 (yī sān yī sì) represents the phrase “yīshēng yīshì” (一生一世), meaning “for a lifetime” or “forever.” Combining it with 520 or 521 (e.g., 5201314) expresses a desire for eternal love.

88 (bā bā)

The number 88 (bā bā) is used as a shorthand for “bye-bye” due to its phonetic similarity. It’s a casual and friendly way to say goodbye in chats and text messages.

666 (liù liù liù)

In internet slang, 666 (liù liù liù) is used to praise someone or something, similar to saying “cool” or “awesome.” This usage stems from the number’s association with smoothness and success.

233 (èr sān sān)

The number 233 (èr sān sān) represents laughter, similar to “LOL” in English. It originated from a popular emoji on the Chinese messaging platform Tencent QQ, which depicts a laughing face.

Occasions Requiring Attention to Number Usage

In Chinese culture, paying attention to the usage of certain numbers is crucial in various occasions to avoid bad luck and ensure good fortune. Here are some key scenarios where the consideration of lucky and unlucky numbers plays an important role:

Choosing Dates for Important Events

Weddings: Couples often consult the Chinese lunar calendar to choose auspicious dates for their wedding. Avoiding dates that contain the number 4 is common, as it is associated with death. Instead, dates featuring the numbers 8 or 6 are preferred for their connotations of prosperity and smoothness.
Business Openings: The opening day of a new business is carefully chosen to ensure success. Numbers like 8, which symbolize wealth, are favored, while 4 is avoided.

Buying or Renting Property

House Numbers: When selecting a house or apartment, the number 4 is typically avoided due to its negative connotation. Numbers like 8 and 9 are preferred for their positive associations with prosperity and longevity.
Floors in Buildings: Many buildings in China skip the fourth floor (or any floor containing the number 4) altogether, similar to how some Western buildings omit the 13th floor.

Phone Numbers and License Plates

Phone Numbers: People often choose phone numbers with lucky digits like 8 and 6, and avoid those with the number 4. Special number combinations like 520 (which sounds like “I love you”) are also popular.
License Plates: Similarly, car owners prefer license plates with auspicious numbers. Plates with multiple 8s can be sold at a premium price.

Pricing of Products

Product Prices: Businesses sometimes price their products with auspicious numbers to attract customers. For instance, an item might be priced at 88 yuan instead of 84 yuan.

Gifting and Red Envelopes (Hongbao)

Cash Gifts: When giving red envelopes, especially during Chinese New Year, weddings, or other celebrations, the amount of money given often contains lucky numbers. Amounts like 88 or 168 yuan are common because they symbolize good fortune and prosperity.
Avoiding Unlucky Amounts: Cash gifts that total to an amount containing the number 4 are avoided to prevent implying bad luck.

Personal Identification Numbers

ID Numbers: Whenever possible, people prefer to have identification numbers (like ID cards or social security numbers) that include lucky digits and avoid unlucky ones.

Business and Brand Names

Brand Names: Companies often incorporate lucky numbers into their brand names or marketing materials to convey positive associations and attract customers.

Personal Milestones and Celebrations

Birthdays: Significant birthdays, especially those that mark milestones (like the 60th birthday, which is highly celebrated in Chinese culture), are often planned with consideration of lucky numbers.

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