小数
xiǎoshù
In Chinese, the English phrase "decimal" is translated as 小数 (xiǎoshù).
小数 is the standard term used to refer to a decimal number.
Meaning: number system (noun)
Which one should you use?
In mathematical contexts, 小数 is often used in contrast with 整数, which means "integer". It is important to distinguish between different components of decimal notation: 十进制 refers to the "decimal system", 小数点 refers specifically to the "decimal point" and 小数位 refers to a "decimal place".
How do you pronounce it?
xiǎoshù
Did you know?
- The word 小数 literally translates to 'small number'. This gives the impression that a decimal is a number that is inherently smaller in magnitude than an integer, rather than just a number with a fractional part.
- Ancient China used a decimal-based counting system on bamboo rods long before the modern decimal point 小数点 was adopted from Western mathematics.
- The term for integer 整数 contains the character 整, which means 'whole' or 'tidy'. It is the same root used to describe a 'neat' or 'organized' room.
Examples in context
- 两点七五2.75
- 三点一四3.14
- 零点八三0.83
- 零点九0.9
- 请把这个小数写在纸上。Qǐng bǎ zhège xiǎoshù xiě zài zhǐ shàng.Please write this decimal on the paper.
- 这个小数非常精确。Zhège xiǎoshù fēicháng jīngquè.This decimal is very precise.
Example conversation
A student is asking a teacher for help with a math problem.
- 志强 Zhiqiang老师，这个小数怎么读？Lǎoshī, zhège xiǎoshù zěnme dú?Teacher, how do you read this decimal?
- 晓雯 Xiaowen志强，你要仔细看小数点。Zhìqiáng, nǐ yào zǐxì kàn xiǎoshùdiǎn.Zhiqiang, you need to look closely at the decimal point.
- 志强 Zhiqiang我明白了，谢谢您。Wǒ míngbáile, xièxiè nín.I understand, thank you.
- 晓雯 Xiaowen不客气，继续做题吧。Bù kèqì, jìxù zuò tí ba.You're welcome, keep doing the problems.
