The number 4 is considered unlucky primarily because of its pronunciation in Chinese.
The Chinese Connection
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Pronunciation: In Chinese, the number 4 (四, sì) is pronounced very similarly to the word for death (死, sǐ). This phonetic similarity makes the number 4 a symbol of bad luck and misfortune for many Chinese speakers.
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Cultural Impact: This association with death has permeated various aspects of Chinese culture, including:
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Building Numbers: Similar to avoiding the 13th floor in Western cultures, buildings in Chinese-speaking regions (e.g., China, Taiwan, Singapore) often omit floors with the number 4 (4, 14, 24, etc.). Sometimes the numbering will skip from floor 3 to floor 5.
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Phone Numbers and License Plates: People often avoid phone numbers, license plates, or addresses containing the number 4. Conversely, they might pay a premium to acquire numbers considered lucky, such as 8 or 9.
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Gifts: Giving gifts in sets of four is generally avoided.
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Variations and Regional Differences
While the aversion to 4 is most strongly associated with Chinese culture, the influence has spread to other East Asian countries, including:
- Japan: Similar to Chinese, the Japanese pronunciation of 4 (shi) is also similar to the word for death.
- Korea: Likewise, the Korean pronunciation (sa) carries the same unfortunate association.
Beyond Simple Superstition
It's important to recognize that this is more than just a simple superstition. It's deeply rooted in linguistic associations and cultural traditions. This association impacts consumer behavior, architectural design, and personal choices within these cultures.
