Why the Number 4 is Considered Unlucky in Hong Kong

The number 4 is widely regarded as an unlucky number in Hong Kong and many other East Asian cultures, including China, Japan, and Korea. This superstition, known as tetraphobia, is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs, linguistic connections, and historical traditions. Here's a detailed guide to understanding why the number 4 carries negative connotations in Hong Kong.

1. Linguistic Roots: The Pronunciation of "4"

The primary reason for the number 4's unluckiness lies in its pronunciation:

• In Cantonese, the number 4 (四, pronounced "sei") sounds very similar to the word for "death" (死, also pronounced "sei").

• This phonetic similarity creates a strong cultural association between the number 4 and misfortune, fear, or bad omens.

For instance:

• Saying "four" aloud can evoke thoughts of death, particularly in solemn or formal situations.

• This association has led to the avoidance of the number in many aspects of daily life.

2. Impact on Everyday Life in Hong Kong

The superstition surrounding the number 4 influences various facets of life in Hong Kong, from real estate to technology. Here are some examples:

a. Real Estate

• Apartment Numbers and Floors:
  Developers often skip the number 4 in building floor numbers, similar to how some Western cultures avoid the 13th floor.
  For example, a building might go from the 3rd floor to the 5th floor, or label the 4th floor as "3A" instead.

  • Floors like 14, 24, and 44 are also avoided, as they contain the digit 4 and may intensify the unlucky connotation.

  • Properties on floors associated with 4 are harder to sell and typically command lower prices.

b. Telephone Numbers

• People in Hong Kong often avoid phone numbers with repeated 4s, as these are perceived to bring bad luck or symbolize impending misfortune.

c. License Plates

• Car license plates containing the number 4 are considered undesirable, especially if the 4 appears repeatedly.

d. Business and Marketing

• Companies in Hong Kong are careful to avoid using the number 4 in product names, packaging, or promotional materials.

  • For example, a company might label a product "Version 3.5" instead of "Version 4" to avoid alienating superstitious customers.

3. Cultural and Historical Context

The fear of the number 4 is not merely a modern superstition; it has deep historical and cultural roots:

• Feng Shui:
  In traditional Chinese geomancy (Feng Shui), the number 4 is considered inauspicious because of its association with death.

  • Homes, businesses, and personal items are often chosen with favorable numbers to attract prosperity and avoid misfortune.

• Ancestor Worship:
  Honoring ancestors and respecting traditions related to death is a key aspect of Chinese culture. Avoiding reminders of death, such as the number 4, is a way to maintain harmony and show respect.

4. Exceptions and Modern Trends

While the fear of the number 4 remains prevalent, there are some exceptions and modern shifts:

• Younger Generations:
  Some younger people in Hong Kong view the superstition as outdated and may not avoid the number as strictly as older generations.

• Western Influence:
  Globalization and Western influence have brought changes in attitudes, especially among the business community, where practical considerations often outweigh superstitions.

5. Comparison to Other Numbers

While the number 4 is considered unlucky, certain numbers are seen as particularly lucky in contrast:

• 8 (八): Pronounced "baat" in Cantonese, it sounds similar to "faat" (發), meaning "to prosper" or "wealth."

• 9 (九): Symbolizes longevity and eternity, as it is associated with the concept of everlasting.

The number 4's unlucky status in Hong Kong stems from its phonetic resemblance to the word for "death," a deeply ingrained cultural belief that continues to influence many aspects of daily life. From real estate to phone numbers, this superstition serves as a fascinating example of how language and tradition shape perceptions of luck and fortune. While attitudes are slowly evolving, the association between the number 4 and bad luck remains a powerful cultural force in Hong Kong.