The number system in Mandarin Chinese is surprisingly easy. There are two interesting things to note here. Firstly, once you learn the counting system in Chinese you’ll be able to learn the number systems in other Asian languages such as Japanese, Korean and Thai very easily as they are largely based on the Chinese counting system. Secondly, you’ll notice find that the counting system and numbers in Mandarin Chinese are actually EASIER than in other western European languages such as French and German!

So, here goes with the tutorial:

To say the number one (1 )you say yī (一) with the first flat tone. It sounds kind of like “yeeeee”.

The number two (2)  èr (二). Basically it’s kind of like the “urgh” sound you make when you’re angry at something or somebody!

The number three (3) sān (三) is extremely easy – just remember to use the first flat tone.

The number four (4) is pronounced sì (四) and you must remember to use that fourth falling tone. If you goof up and use the third dipping tone you will be saying “dead” or “death” and the Chinese people will look at you in a very funny way!

The number five (5) is pronounced wǔ (五) and uses that third dipping tone. The number five sounds like the common Chinese surname (lastname) Wu so this one is quite easy. Note the number 5 in Mandarin and the surname Wu (吳 – i think i got that right!) are writting in totally separate characters.

The number six (6) is pronounced lìu and sounds like “Leo” – the Thai beer. Remember to use the fourth falling tone. If u goof up and use the second rising tone you’ll be saying to stay.

The number seven (7 ) is pronounced qī (七) with the first flat tone. Remember that Q in Chinese pinyin sounds kind of like “ch”

The number eight (8) bā (八) is really easy – just say ba and make sure you use the first flat tone.

The number nine (9) jiǔ (九) is a bit tricky. Remember to use that third dipping tone.

The number ten (10) shí (十) uses the second rising tone. It is absolutely essential that you stress that rising tone. If you goof up and use the fourth falling tone you’ll be saying the word for “to be” or the chinese identifier word, shi – 是!