What does 第 mean in Chinese?

第 is a prefix meaning "ordinal," used to indicate order or ranking, like "first," "second," "third," etc.

How do you form ordinal numbers with 第?

To form ordinal numbers, place 第 before the number, as in 第一 (dì yī, "first") or 第三 (dì sān, "third").

Can 第 be used with numbers and characters?

Yes, 第 can be used with Arabic numerals (like 第2) and Chinese numerals (like 第二).

Is 第 only used for numbers?

Primarily, 第 is used for ordinal numbers, but it can also indicate sequence in a series, such as 第一步 (dì yī bù, "the first step").

What’s the difference between 第 and 个?

第 specifically marks order or ranking, while 个 is a general measure word for counting items without specifying order.

Can I learn Chinese with LTL?

Yes! You can learn Chinese in one of our 10+ destination, in both group or individual classes. Have a look at all of our programs here. Or contact a Student Advisor to discuss your plans directly.

HSK 1

Grammar Point	Pattern	Example
How to use 第 for ordinal numbers	第 + [Number]	我是第一个到达的人。
How to use 别 for negative commands	别 + Verb (+ Object)	别忘记你的书!
How to use 不太 to express "not very"	Subject + 不太 + Adjective/Verb	这个房间不太大
How to use 每 to express "every"	每 + (Measure word) + Noun	每个国家
Difference between 能 and 会	Subject +（不）会/能 + Verb + Object	弟弟会游泳。
How to use 想 and 要	Subject + 想要 + Noun/Verb	你想要什么礼物?
Chinese superlative with 最	最 + Adj.	午后的阳光是最刺眼的。
How to use 了	Subject + Verb + 了	我们都去了。
Using 离 to talk about distance	Place 1 + 离 + Place 2 + Adverb of degree + 近/远	上海离北京很远。
Expressing "already" with 已经	Subj. + 已经 + Verb + 了	他已经回家了。
Chinese questions words	Subj. + 是 + 谁 ?	你是谁？
Saying “briefly” with 一下	S + Verb + 一下	我休息一下。