The Number 4 Is Unlucky in China

Numerology plays a significant role in Chinese culture, with certain numbers carrying auspicious or inauspicious meanings. The number 4 is the most feared because it is pronounced si in Mandarin, nearly identical to the word for death. This superstition affects daily life in numerous ways. Many buildings, especially hotels, simply skip from floor 3 to floor 5, omitting any floor with a 4 in it. Phone numbers, license plates, and addresses containing multiple 4s are avoided and often sell for less. Conversely, the number 8 is considered extremely lucky because it sounds like the word for wealth or fortune. The 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony began at 8:08 PM on August 8th.