Why do Chinese like No 8, whether it’s a telephone number or a car’s registration plate?
Why do they price their products at 68, 98 or 268?
But No 4 is taboo. That’s because 4 is pronounced “si” which sounds similar to that of “death” in Chinese.
No 6 represents smoothness and success. Many young people choose the dates with No 6 as their wedding days, such as the 6th, 16th and 26th.
No 8, however, is the most popular of all. It’s pronounced “ba” which, in Cantonese, is close to “fa” which means
”to make a fortune.”
The Cantonese, who have taken the lead in implementing reform and opening up to the outside world under the policy initiated by the late leader Deng Xiaoping, are seen with high prestige. As they deal with more people from other areas, their fondness for No 8 has spread far and wide around China.
Most Chinese companies choose No 8 to start their business in hope of getting lucky. Some even designate the exact time of 8:08, 8:18 or some other similar set with No 8 for celebration.
Besidess No 4, Chinese also dislike No 250, which is regarded as an unpleasant set of numbers, mostly used to curse other people. It basic means “mental disorder.”
Chinese also like even numbers, believing that “good things come in pairs.” That’s why they often choose dates with even numbers for happy events. They also send gifts in even numbers.
Now, you know why in some buildings in Beijing or Hong Kong or Shanghai, the lift doesn’t stop at the fourth floor. The fourth floor doesn’t exist!
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