Are you curious to know what makes the number 4 in Japanese special?

Have you ever tried learning the Japanese language and stumbled upon the number 4, only to find out it’s considered bad luck?

It can be unclear and even unsettling, especially when starting.

But don’t worry! We’re here to demystify why Japanese people see 4 as an unlucky number, and how you can navigate this cultural nuance like a pro.

Introduction to Japanese Numbers

Learning numbers in a new language is a great first step toward fluency. In Japanese, numbers are more than just a way to count—they’re a window into Japanese culture, history, and superstitions.

Understanding the intricacies of numbers can give you a solid foundation for your Japanese lessons and enhance your experience with the language.

The Importance of Numbers in Everyday Life

Numbers are everywhere—they’re in phone numbers, dates, prices, and more. In Japan, numbers are especially significant in everyday life, influencing everything from traditional ceremonies to the layout of buildings.

By mastering Japanese numbers, you’ll be better equipped to handle everyday situations and appreciate their cultural context.

The Dual Numerical Systems: Sino-Japanese and Native Japanese Numbers

One unique aspect of the Japanese language is its use of two numerical systems: the Sino-Japanese reading (on’yomi) and the native Japanese reading (kun’yomi).

This dual system stems from incorporating Chinese characters into the Japanese writing system.

Sino-Japanese Numbers (On’yomi)

The Sino-Japanese numbers are derived from Chinese characters and are used in various contexts, especially when dealing with large numbers, dates, and certain counters.

  • 1: ichi (いち)
  • 2: ni (に)
  • 3: san (さん)
  • 4: shi (し)
  • 5: go (ご)
  • 6: roku (ろく)
  • 7: shichi (しち)
  • 8: hachi (はち)
  • 9: kyuu (きゅう)
  • 10: juu (じゅう)

Native Japanese Numbers (Kun’yomi)

The native Japanese numbers are used primarily when counting objects, ages, and occurrences.

  • 1: hitotsu (ひとつ)
  • 2: futatsu (ふたつ)
  • 3: mittsu (みっつ)
  • 4: yottsu (よっつ)
  • 5: itsutsu (いつつ)
  • 6: muttsu (むっつ)
  • 7: nanatsu (ななつ)
  • 8: yattsu (やっつ)
  • 9: kokonotsu (ここのつ)
  • 10: tou (とお)

Why Two Systems?

The dual numerical systems can be attributed to historical influences. The Sino-Japanese system came with introducing kanji characters from China, while the native Japanese numbers existed prior. Japanese use both systems in different contexts, and mastering both is crucial for fluency.

The Number 4 in Japanese: Readings and Pronunciations

The number 4 is unique because it has two readings:

  • Shi (し) – Sino-Japanese reading
  • Yon (よん) – Native Japanese reading

The Significance of “Shi” and “Yon”

  • Shi sounds like the Japanese word for “death” (死), making it an unlucky number.
  • Yon doesn’t carry this negative connotation, so it’s often used instead.

Native speakers tend to prefer yon over shi to avoid the association with death, especially in everyday life.

Cultural Superstitions Surrounding the Number 4

The Fear of “Shi” (Tetraphobia)

  • Tetraphobia is the practice of avoiding the number 4.
  • It is common in East Asian countries, including Japan, due to the similar pronunciation of “shi” and “death.”

Real-Life Examples

  • Hospitals and Hotels: Rooms numbered 4 or floors labeled 4 are often omitted.
  • Elevators: The fourth floor might be labeled as “F” instead of “4”.
  • Phone Numbers: People avoid phone numbers with multiple 4s.
  • Gifts: Giving gifts in sets of 4 is considered bad luck.

Impact on Japanese People

  • The superstition affects decisions in business, healthcare, and personal life.
  • Even native Japanese speakers who aren’t superstitious may avoid 4 out of cultural respect.

Using Counters with the Number 4

The Concept of Counters in Japanese

In Japanese, when counting objects, you must use counter words that correspond to the kind of object you’re counting. This can be challenging for learners because many counters are used in specific contexts.

Common Counters Involving 4

  1. General Objects: つ (tsu)
    • 4 small objects: yottsu (よっつ)
  2. Flat Objects: 枚 (mai)
    • 4 sheets of paper: yonmai (よんまい)
  3. Thin Objects or Long Cylindrical Objects: 本 (hon)
    • 4 pencils: yonhon (よんほん)
  4. Small Animals: 匹 (hiki)
    • 4 cats: yonhiki (よんひき)
  5. People: 人 (nin)
    • 4 people: yonin (よにん)

The Importance of Using the Right Counter

  • Using the correct counter is essential for clear communication.
  • It shows respect for the language and helps avoid misunderstandings.

The Most Common Japanese Counters

  • Learning the most frequently used counters is a great place to start.
  • Counters like mai, hon, hiki, and nin are used daily.

Numbers in Everyday Life: From Phone Numbers to Dates

Phone Numbers

  • Arabic numerals are used for writing phone numbers.
  • Pronunciation matters: yon is preferred over shi.
  • Example: A phone number like (1234-5678) is pronounced “ichi ni san yon no go roku nana hachi”.

Dates and the Days of the Month

  • The days of the month have unique readings.
  • The 4th day is pronounced “yokka” (よっか), not “shi-nichi”.
  • This avoids the unlucky shi pronunciation.

Special Dates: July 7th

  • July 7th is “Tanabata”, the Star Festival.
  • Numbers play a role in this festival, but the number 4 is notably absent due to superstition.

Overcoming Superstitions: When 4 is Just a Number

The Modern Perspective

  • Younger generations may not hold the same superstitions.
  • In international settings, the fear of 4 is less pronounced.

When 4 is Neutral or Positive

  • In some contexts, 4 is unavoidable and treated as a number.
  • Mathematics and science use 4 without superstition.

Balancing Respect and Practicality

  • While awareness of cultural superstitions is important, practical usage sometimes takes precedence.
  • Being mindful shows cultural sensitivity, but overemphasis can hinder communication.

Expanding Your Numerical Vocabulary

Learning Larger Numbers

  • Big numbers follow a logical pattern in Japanese.
  • 100 is “hyaku”, but note irregularities like “sanbyaku” (300) and “roppyaku” (600).
  • 1,000 is “sen”, 10,000 is “man”.

Compound Words with Numbers

  • Numbers are used in compound words to convey specific meanings.
  • Juu ni (12): Combines juu (10) and ni (2).
  • Ni juu ichi (21): “Ni” (2), “juu” (10), “ichi” (1).

Popular Examples

  • Sanbyaku (300): Note the pronunciation change to “byaku”.
  • Juu shi (14): Often avoided due to shi; juu yon is preferred.

Understanding Different Readings in Context

Situational Usage of “Shi” and “Yon”

  • Time: 4 o’clock is “yoji” (よじ), not “shi-ji”.
  • Age: 4 years old is “yon-sai” (よんさい).

The Sino-Japanese Number System in Formal Contexts

  • They are used in legal documents, academic settings, and formal speeches.
  • It is essential for reading kanji characters and understanding complex numbers.

The Native Japanese Counting in Everyday Life

  • Common in casual conversations and counting tangible items.
  • It helps in learning new words and understanding cultural nuances.

The Role of Numbers in Japanese Culture

Traditional Ceremonies and Festivals

  • Numbers often hold symbolic meanings.
  • Lucky numbers like 7 are celebrated, as seen in Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3) festival.

Superstitions and Good Luck

  • While 4 is considered bad luck, other numbers like 8 (hachi) symbolize good luck and prosperity.
  • Understanding these superstitions can enhance your cultural experience.

Numbers in Business and Architecture

  • Buildings may skip the 4th floor or label it differently.
  • Businesses may avoid using 4 in product names or prices.

Practical Tips for Mastering Japanese Numbers

Embrace Both Numerical Systems

  • Practice both Sino-Japanese and native Japanese readings.
  • Use flashcards or apps to reinforce learning.

Learn the Most Common Counters

  • Focus on counters relevant to your interests or daily life.
  • Examples: Satsu for books, Dai for machines, Ko as a universal counter.

Engage with Native Speakers

  • Practice counting and using numbers in conversation.
  • Ask about cultural nuances to gain deeper insights.

Use Numbers in Real-Life Scenarios

  • Read prices when shopping.
  • Tell time in Japanese.
  • Discuss dates and events.

Leverage Resources

  • Use a comprehensive guide or textbook.
  • Online platforms offer interactive exercises.

Understanding Numbers in the Japanese Writing System

Kanji for Numbers

  • Each number has a specific kanji character.
  • 4 is written as 四.
  • Knowing the kanji helps in reading signs, menus, and documents.

Arabic Numerals in Japan

  • Arabic numbers (0-9) are widely used, especially in technology.
  • They coexist with kanji in daily life.

The Role of Hiragana and Katakana

  • Numbers can sometimes be written in hiragana or katakana for stylistic purposes.
  • Example: “よん” (yon) in hiragana.

Tackling Complex Numbers and Mathematical Concepts

Decimal Points and Fractions

  • Decimal point is “ten” (点).
  • Fractions use “bun” (分).
  • Example: 0.4 is “rei ten yon” (れい てん よん).

Bigger Numbers and Consistent Patterns

  • Numbers beyond 10,000 follow a consistent pattern.
  • 100,000 is “juu man” (十万).
  • 1,000,000 is “hyaku man” (百万).

Using Numbers in Academic and Scientific Contexts

  • Essential for understanding measurements, statistics, and data.
  • Familiarity with numbers enhances comprehension in these fields.

The Best Way to Learn: Practice and Application

Incorporate Numbers into Daily Practice

  • Count objects around you in Japanese.
  • Use numbers when cooking or exercising.

Contextual Learning

  • Understand the type of object to use the correct counter.
  • Practice in different contexts to solidify knowledge.

Utilize Technology

  • Language learning apps often have modules on numbers and counting.
  • Online quizzes can test your understanding.

Join Language Communities

  • Participate in forums or social media groups.
  • Exchange knowledge with fellow learners and native speakers.

Special Numbers and Their Unique Readings

Numbers with Irregular Readings

  • 300 is “sanbyaku”, not “san hyaku”.
  • 600 is “roppyaku”, 800 is “happyaku”.
  • Being aware of these helps in mastering complex numbers.

Numbers in Idioms and Expressions

  • “San-san-go-go” (33-55) implies “scattered” or “disorderly.”
  • Numbers can carry meanings beyond their numerical value.

Fun Facts and Cultural Tidbits

The Number 7 (Nana/Shichi)

  • Considered a lucky number in Japan.
  • It is associated with events like Tanabata on July 7th.

The Number 9 (Ku)

  • Similar to 4, 9 can be considered unlucky because “ku” sounds like “suffering” (苦).

Numbers in Pop Culture

  • Anime and manga often play with numbers for character names or titles.
  • “One Piece” uses “Gomu Gomu no Mi” (Rubber Fruit) as a pun, with 5-6-5-6 (Go-Mu Go-Mu).

Conclusion

Understanding the number 4 in Japanese is more than a language lesson—it’s a cultural journey. By exploring the dual numerical systems, the superstitions surrounding unlucky numbers, and the practical applications of numbers in everyday life, you’ll not just learn how to count but gain insight into Japanese culture’s heart.

This knowledge will serve you well, whether you decipher a phone number, participate in traditional ceremonies, or count small objects.

Remember, the best way to master Japanese numbers is through consistent practice, cultural immersion, and a willingness to embrace the language’s unique quirks.

Reference: University of Tokyo’s Digital Content and Media Sciences Research Division

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