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Ni hao! I am Studyfin, your friendly study buddy. Today, we will learn how to count to three in Mandarin Chinese!
In Mandarin, Chinese characters are built using simple strokes. The numbers one, two, and three are very easy to learn because they look like the numbers they show.
The number one is written as a single flat line. It is called 'yī' and is spelled with a flat line over the letter 'i' to show a high, flat tone.
The number two is written with two flat lines and is called 'èr'. The top line is slightly shorter than the bottom line.
The number three is written with three lines and is called 'sān'. The middle line is the shortest, and the bottom line is the longest.
Imagine you see three apples on a table. How would you write and say this number in Mandarin?
- First, count the apples on the table to find the total number, which is three.
- Next, remember that the Mandarin word for three is 'sān'.
- Then, picture the three flat lines that make up the Chinese character for three.
- Finally, write the three lines: a medium line on top, a short line in the middle, and a long line on the bottom.