Expression of Approximate Numbers 2: 左右

Usage:

In Mandarin Chinese, the term 左右 (zuǒyòu) is used to indicate an approximate or rough quantity, especially when talking about numbers.

Meaning:

左右 (zuǒyòu) literally means "left and right" and is used figuratively to convey an estimated or rounded value.

Examples:

• 这个箱子大概有五十公斤左右。(Zhège xiāngzi dàgài yǒu wǔshí gōngjīn zuǒyòu.) - This box weighs approximately fifty kilograms.
• 他大约二十岁左右。(Tā dàyuē èrshí suì zuǒyòu.) - He is approximately twenty years old.