百万
How to Understand
百万 is the Chinese word for 'million,' representing the number 1,000,000. It is used in both numerical and figurative contexts, similar to the English word 'million.' Unlike some other Chinese numerals, it is not typically used as a standalone verb or adjective but functions primarily as a noun.
The character 百 (bǎi) means 'hundred,' and 万 (wàn) means 'ten thousand.' Together, they form a compound numeral that represents 100 × 10,000 = 1,000,000. This structure reflects the traditional Chinese numbering system, which uses units of 10, 100, and 10,000 rather than powers of 1,000 as in English.
百万 is commonly used in financial, scientific, and everyday contexts. For example, it appears in phrases like 一百万美元 (yī bǎi wàn měiyuán), meaning 'one million dollars.' It also appears in idiomatic expressions, such as 百万富翁 (bǎi wàn fùwēng), meaning 'millionaire.' Understanding this term is essential for comprehending large numbers in Chinese media and conversations.