neuf
/nœf/
neuf is the French word for the number nine.
neuf refers to the number that comes after eight and before ten. It is also a homonym, meaning it can also mean the adjective 'new' depending on the context.
How do you pronounce it?
/nœf/
Did you know?
- While neuf and nouveau both translate to 'new', you cannot use neuf to describe a 'new' person, such as a new neighbor, as that would imply they were recently manufactured.
- The word neuf for 'nine' descends from the Latin novem, while the neuf meaning 'new' comes from the Latin novus.
- While neuf means 'new' for an object that has just been manufactured, the word nouveau is used for something that is 'new' to the owner or a new experience.
Examples in context
- J'ai neuf unités en stockI have nine units in stock
- J'ai neuf pommes dans mon sac.I have nine apples in my bag.
- Il est neuf heures du matin.It is nine in the morning.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Emma are counting pieces of candy.
- GabrielCombien de bonbons as-tu, Emma ?How many candies do you have, Emma?
- EmmaJ'en ai neuf.I have nine.
- GabrielMoi, j'en ai seulement huit.I only have eight.
- EmmaTu peux en avoir neuf si tu veux !You can have nine if you want!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry neuf, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries neuf, CC BY-SA 4.0.
