複數 / 复数
fùshù
The English word "plural" is translated into Chinese as 複數 / 复数 (fùshù). Wiktionary also lists 眾數 / 众数 (zhòngshù).
Meaning: more than one (adj)
Ways to say it
| Chinese | Romanization (Wiktionary) |
|---|---|
| 複數 / 复数 | fùshù |
| 眾數 / 众数 | zhòngshù |
As an adjective, 複數 / 复数 means "more than one". In a linguistic context, when referring to the plural form of a word, one typically uses 複數 / 复数. The terms can also function as nouns meaning "the plural number" or "word in plural form".
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is fùshù.
Did you know?
- In Chinese mathematical terms, 複數 can also refer to 'complex numbers' in algebra. A student studying grammar and a student studying math might use the exact same word for different concepts.
- The character 複 in 複數 literally means 'double' or 'folded'. This reflects an ancient logic where 'more than one' was viewed as a repetition or a doubling of the original unit.
- To specify a plural noun, Chinese speakers often use the suffix 們, but it is typically reserved for people. Using 們 after an inanimate object is generally considered a grammatical error or a poetic personification.
Example sentences for Chinese are not verified yet.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “plural” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
