June 26, 2026 · 星期五
The Lucky Number Eight
幸运数字八· eight
Today’s episode with Jason & AmyThe number eight is cherished in China for its association with prosperity and balance.
The Lucky Number Eight
幸运数字八xìng yùn shù zì bā
In China, numbers carry significant cultural meanings, and among them, the number eight (八, bā) holds a special place. The primary reason for its popularity is its phonetic similarity to the word 'prosper' (发, fā)[1]. This connection to prosperity and success is why many people in China go to great lengths to incorporate the number eight into their lives. It is common to see people paying extra for phone numbers, car license plates, or even addresses that include the number eight.
The influence of the number eight extends beyond personal choices to major public events and business decisions. For instance, the 2008 Beijing Olympics began on August 8 at 8:08 PM, a time carefully chosen for its auspicious alignment with the number eight[2]. In real estate, properties on the eighth floor or with an address containing the number eight often command higher prices. This cultural preference is not just a modern phenomenon; it is deeply rooted in the belief systems and practices of the Chinese people.
Moreover, the number eight is a symbol of balance and harmony, which are essential values in Chinese philosophy. This belief in the power of numbers is part of a broader system known as 'numerology,' where numbers are seen as having inherent qualities that can influence outcomes. As such, the number eight is not only a symbol of wealth but also represents a harmonious and balanced life[3]. Whether it’s used in personal life or business strategies, the appeal of the number eight is an enduring aspect of Chinese culture, reflecting a desire for prosperity and auspiciousness.
The number eight is cherished in China for its association with prosperity and balance.
今天是六月二十六日。
Jīntiān shì liù yuè èrshíliù rì.
Today is June 26th.
- [1] standard reference works on Chinese numerology
- [2] UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage documentation
- [3] standard reference works on Chinese philosophy
Jason & Amy on 八
Podcast: Daily Chinese: 八 — The Lucky Number Eight
Jason & Amy on 八 and The Lucky Number Eight
New here?
八是一个数字。
Bā shì yī gè shùzì.
Eight is a number.
This sentence explains what eight is.
八是幸运的数字。
Bā shì xìngyùn de shùzì.
Eight is a lucky number.
It highlights eight's cultural significance.
许多人喜欢八这个数字。
Xǔduō rén xǐhuān bā zhège shùzì.
Many people like the number eight.
The sentence shows eight's popularity.
八象征着繁荣与平衡。
Bā xiàngzhēngzhe fánróng yǔ pínghéng.
Eight symbolizes prosperity and balance.
This explains the abstract cultural meaning of eight.
The use of 是 with numbers
subject + 是 + number
In Chinese, 是 is used to equate or identify something, such as when stating a number's identity.
Use 是 to state the identity or attribute of a number.
今天是八号。
jīn tiān shì bā hào
Today is the 8th.
我的号码是八。
wǒ de hào mǎ shì bā
My number is eight.
答案是八。
dá àn shì bā
The answer is eight.
What does 八 mean?
How is 八 pronounced?
How do you write "eight" in Chinese?
Listen. What does the sentence mean?
Fill the blank: 我有___个朋友。
八是一个数字。 — What does this sentence mean?
Why is the number eight considered lucky in China?
Arrange into a correct sentence
Frequently asked questions about the word 八
It is pronounced as 'bā' with a flat, high tone.
In Cantonese, it is also pronounced 'baat'.
Yes, 八 can be used in equations, just like any other number.
Today's Mandarin word: 八 (bā) — eight.
Learn it on Mandarin Temple's Dragon Daily 🐉