If you’re learning French or simply interested in expanding your vocabulary, knowing how to express numbers is essential. In this guide, we’ll focus on the word “eighty” and explore its formal and informal variations in French, while also providing some useful tips and examples to help you master this numerical expression.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Eighty in French
When it comes to formal situations, such as official speeches, business meetings, or academic settings, the most commonly used expression for “eighty” is:
Quatre-vingts
It directly translates to “four twenties” in English and follows a unique structure.
Informal Ways to Say Eighty in French
In informal contexts, like everyday conversations among friends or family, there are alternative ways to express the number “eighty” in French:
- Huitante: Used in some regions of Switzerland, this term is quite rare and is considered non-standard French.
- Octante: Mostly used in Belgium, particularly in the Walloon dialect, “octante” has a regional charm and is not commonly heard throughout the francophone world.
- Quatre-vingt: Often informally shortened to “quatre-vingt” without the final “s,” this version is widely used in everyday speech across most French-speaking regions.
It’s important to note that as language evolves, some alternative ways may become more or less popular over time. Therefore, it’s recommended to be familiar with all the forms mentioned above to better understand regional variations or older texts.
Tips and Examples
Here are some useful tips and examples to help you navigate the usage of “eighty” in French:
1. Formal Situations
In formal situations, such as in academic or business settings where standardized French is required, it’s best to stick to “quatre-vingts.” For example:
L’équipe a remporté quatre-vingts pour cent de ses matches. (The team won eighty percent of their matches.)
2. Informal Conversations
In informal conversations or casual written texts like text messages, “quatre-vingt” is commonly used. For instance:
J’ai acheté quatre-vingt livres à la librairie hier. (I bought eighty books at the bookstore yesterday.)
3. Regional Variations
If you’re in Belgium or speaking with Belgians, “octante” is occasionally used. Here’s an example:
La fête commence à octante heures. (The party starts at eighty o’clock.)
4. Using “Huitante” in Switzerland
While not widely recognized, if you find yourself in Switzerland, particularly in the canton of Vaud or Valais, you might hear “huitante” instead of “quatre-vingts.” Here’s an example:
Les montagnes valaisannes sont magnifiques par une température de moins quatre-vingts degrés. (The Valais mountains are magnificent at a temperature of minus eighty degrees.)
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to say “eighty” in French is essential for anyone learning the language or seeking to communicate effectively with native French speakers. In formal settings, “quatre-vingts” is the standard option, while “quatre-vingt” with or without an “s” is more commonly used in informal contexts. However, regional variations may occur in Belgium and Switzerland, with “octante” and “huitante” being used in specific areas respectively. By familiarizing yourself with these variations and practicing their usage, you’ll be well-equipped to express the number “eighty” confidently in French.
