Learning how to count in a different language is a fundamental part of mastering any new language. If you’re looking to learn how to say counting in French, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of counting in French, providing you with useful tips, examples, and even some regional variations. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways of Counting in French
When it comes to formal situations, such as in business or official settings, it’s important to use proper and polite expressions for counting in French. Here’s a list of numbers from 0 to 20 in French:
0 – zéro
1 – un
2 – deux
3 – trois
4 – quatre
5 – cinq
6 – six
7 – sept
8 – huit
9 – neuf
10 – dix
11 – onze
12 – douze
13 – treize
14 – quatorze
15 – quinze
16 – seize
17 – dix-sept
18 – dix-huit
19 – dix-neuf
20 – vingt
To count beyond 20, you need to understand how French numbers work. In French, numbers are constructed more systematically compared to English. Here are some examples:
Counting by Tens
When counting by tens, you combine the tens number with the unit number. For example:
- 30 – trente
- 40 – quarante
- 50 – cinquante
- 60 – soixante
- 70 – soixante-dix
- 80 – quatre-vingts
- 90 – quatre-vingt-dix
Notice the unique forms for 70, 80, and 90. These patterns may seem odd at first, but they are an essential part of French numeral vocabulary.
Counting Beyond 100
Similar to counting by tens, French has specific words for each hundred. Here are a few examples:
- 100 – cent
- 200 – deux cents
- 300 – trois cents
- 1000 – mille
- 2000 – deux mille
It’s also important to add the corresponding connecting word “et” (and) between the hundred and unit numbers for numbers greater than 100. For example:
- 101 – cent un
- 253 – deux cent cinquante-trois
- 1000 – mille
- 2004 – deux mille quatre
Informal Ways of Counting in French
In informal situations or among friends, French speakers may use different expressions for counting. It’s always helpful to have a grasp of the informal vocabulary to better understand everyday conversations. Here are some examples:
0 – zéro (same as formal)
1 – un (same as formal)
2 – deux (same as formal)
3 – trois (same as formal)
4 – quatre (same as formal)
5 – cinq (same as formal)
6 – six (same as formal)
7 – sept (same as formal)
8 – huit (same as formal)
9 – neuf (same as formal)
10 – dix (same as formal)
11 – onze (same as formal)
12 – douze (same as formal)
13 – treize (same as formal)
14 – quatorze (same as formal)
15 – quinze (same as formal)
16 – seize (same as formal)
17 – dix-sept (same as formal)
18 – dix-huit (same as formal)
19 – dix-neuf (same as formal)
20 – vingt (same as formal)
In informal French, there are some changes after 20. Here are a few examples:
- 30 – trente (same as formal)
- 40 – quarante (same as formal)
- 50 – cinquante (same as formal)
- 60 – soixante (same as formal)
- 70 – septante
- 80 – huitante
- 90 – nonante
Notice the variations in pronunciations for 70, 80, and 90 in informal French. These regional variations are commonly used in Belgium and some parts of Switzerland. Outside of these regions, the formal versions (soixante-dix, quatre-vingts, quatre-vingt-dix) tend to be more commonly used.
Tips for Learning to Count in French
Learning to count in French might initially seem challenging, but with practice and these useful tips, you’ll be confident in your counting skills in no time:
- Practice repetition: Repetition is key when learning any new language. Set aside some time each day to practice counting in French, starting from 0 and gradually working your way up to higher numbers.
- Use flashcards: Create flashcards with numbers in French and their corresponding English translations. Quiz yourself regularly to reinforce your learning.
- Listen to native speakers: Immerse yourself in the French language by listening to French podcasts, songs, or watching French movies. Pay attention to how native speakers pronounce the numbers.
- Engage in conversations: Practicing counting with a language partner or tutor can greatly enhance your skills. Have conversations and games involving numbers in French to improve your fluency.
- Explore online resources: Take advantage of online resources, such as interactive websites and mobile apps, which offer activities and quizzes designed to help you learn French numbers effectively.
Remember, learning a new language takes time and patience, and counting is just one aspect of it. Enjoy the process and celebrate your progress along the way!
