Question

Japanese hospitals usually do not count this floor because the number translated also means death.

a) 4th
b) 7th
c) 13th
d) 17th

Answer 1

In Japanese hospitals, the floor numbers 4th, 7th, 13th, and 17th are usually skipped or not labeled due to their association with death in Japanese culture.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Japanese hospitals, the floor numbers 4th, 7th, 13th, and 17th are usually skipped or not labeled because their pronunciation in Japanese can be associated with the word for death. This belief is rooted in superstition and cultural beliefs around the number's symbolism. In Japanese, the number 4 is pronounced as 'shi,' which is similar to the word for death, and the number 7 is pronounced as 'shichi,' similar to the word for suffering. Number 13 has a similar association with death in many cultures, including Japan. The number 17 is avoided due to its association with a phrase that can mean 'person will die.' It is important to note that not all Japanese hospitals follow this practice, and it may vary depending on the region and hospital.