HSK 2
序数表示法
xù shù biǎo shì fǎ
Expressing ordinal numbers
Explanation
This is how ordinal numbers (which one in order) are expressed in Chinese.
第 (dì) + cardinal number → 第一 (dì-yī) (first), 第三 (dì-sān) (third). For floors of a building: number + 楼 (lóu) or 层 (céng) → 二楼 (èr lóu) (second floor), 三层 (sān céng) (third floor). For addresses: number + 号楼 (hào lóu) (building no.…), number + 房间 (fángjiān) (room…). For bus routes: number + 路 (lù) → 302路公交车 = bus route 302.
Use 第 when you need to clearly indicate rank or order; but for floors, house numbers, room numbers, and bus route numbers, read the number directly with its unit, do NOT add 第.
二楼 is read èr lóu (do not use 两 (liǎng) for ordinal numbers); room/route numbers are read digit by digit (205 = èr líng wǔ).
Vietnamese learners often add 第 to floors and house numbers (e.g. the wrong 第二楼) or use 两 instead of 二 when saying ordinal numbers — ordinal numbers always use 二, not 两.
Examples
first, third, seventh, second floor, third floor
building no. 13, room 205, bus route 302
Practice
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Learn “序数表示法” effectively
The grammar point “序数表示法” (Expressing ordinal numbers) is one of the key structures at HSK 2. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
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