Definitions
(numeral)
two; 2
Etymology
The character is based on the original meaning "file of ten soldiers". The modern meaning "what" is a phonetic loan.
About
The character '二', representing the number two, is constructed from two horizontal strokes and functions as a fundamental numeral within the Chinese writing system. Its etymology is that of a simple ideogram, where the repetition of a basic line visually conveys the concept of duality, a structural principle that has remained essentially unchanged. While its primary meaning as a cardinal number has been consistently central, the character also routinely serves to denote ordinal sequence, meaning 'second'. In modern colloquial usage, it has developed an additional layer of meaning, often applied to describe behavior or individuals considered foolish or simple, illustrating a semantic expansion beyond its original numerical value.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我今年十二岁。
他是第二名。
这本书二十元。
我住在二楼。
现在十二点半。
二氧化碳是一种气体。
二月份有二十八天。
第二次世界大战发生在二十世纪。