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Approximate numbers

HSK2 TBCL2

Common errors

Placing 多 in the wrong position

Influenced by English sentence structure, learners often incorrectly place before the numeral.

more than two hours

*多两个小时
两个多小时

more than two hours

*多兩個小時
兩個多小時

Confusing 十块多/十塊多 and 十多块/十多塊

The phrase 十块多/十塊多 describes a sum that is marginally more than ten yuan, typically falling within a narrow range like ¥10–11. On the other hand, 十多块/十多塊 denotes a more expansive estimated range, usually ¥10–19. Learners frequently perceive the two forms as interchangeable or confuse them since many languages do not convey this distinction.

Errors caused by native transfer

(CS/DK/DE/IT/PL)

Classroom activity

1

The teacher divides the students into pairs and asks them to interview each other, using approximate numbers in their answers. The questions may include:

你昨天学习了多久的中文?
你昨天學習了多久的中文?

你一天喝几杯水/咖啡/茶?
你一天喝幾杯水/咖啡/茶?

你一个星期运动几次?
你一個星期運動幾次?

你的衣服多少钱?
你的衣服多少錢?

2

Afterward, students report the results of their interviews to the whole class.