Bonjour! If you’re looking to expand your French vocabulary, learning how to say “ninety” is an essential step. Whether you want to communicate numbers or simply impress your French-speaking friends, this guide will equip you with the formal and informal ways to express “ninety” in French. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Ninety in French
When it comes to expressing “ninety” formally, the French language provides you with a couple of options:
1. Quatre-vingt-dix
The most common and standard way to say “ninety” in French is “quatre-vingt-dix.” Literally translating to “four-twenty-ten,” it might sound a bit puzzling at first. However, it follows a unique pattern in which numbers from sixty to ninety are constructed by adding the tens word “dix” (ten) after the number corresponding to the number of twenties. Here’s an example:
92 – Quatre-vingt-douze (four-twenty-twelve)
By understanding and practicing this pattern, you’ll be able to express any number between sixty and ninety in a formal setting with ease.
2. Nonante (Belgium and Switzerland)
If you happen to find yourself in Belgium or Switzerland, the inhabitants of those regions have their own way to say “ninety.” Instead of “quatre-vingt-dix,” they use “nonante,” which is derived directly from the Latin word for ninety, “nonaginta.” Here’s an example:
97 – Nonante-sept (ninety-seven)
Keep in mind that this variation is specific to Belgium and Switzerland, so it may not be widely recognized in other French-speaking countries.
Informal Ways to Say Ninety in French
When it comes to informal situations, French speakers often use some shortcuts to express “ninety.” Let’s explore these informal ways:
1. Quatre-vingts-dix
An informal way to say “ninety” is by dropping the “-dix” (ten) from “quatre-vingt-dix.” This simplification resulted in “quatre-vingts-dix,” which can be translated as “four-twenty-ninety.” While not used as commonly as “quatre-vingt-dix” in formal settings, it is a popular choice in casual conversations. For example:
94 – Quatre-vingts-quatorze (four-twenty-fourteen)
2. Nonante (Informal Usage)
Similar to the formal Belgian and Swiss usage, “nonante” can also be used informally by the French speakers in these countries. It’s a more relaxed and colloquial way to express “ninety” without using “quatre-vingt-dix.” Here’s an example:
98 – Nonante-huit (ninety-eight)
Remember that using “nonante” in an informal setting outside of Belgium and Switzerland might confuse the person you’re speaking to, so it’s best to stick to the more generally recognized variations.
Useful Tips for Saying “Ninety” in French
Here are some extra tips and examples to help you master the art of saying “ninety” in French:
1. Practice Pronunciation
French pronunciation can be tricky, so it’s essential to practice saying “ninety” in French regularly. Try to focus on the unique sounds, such as the “r” in “quatre” and the nasal “n” in “nonante” if you choose to use it informally.
2. Memorize Common Numbers
By familiarizing yourself with the construction pattern of numbers from sixty to ninety, you’ll find it easier to form other numerical combinations, not just within the nineties range. Understanding the logic behind the French number system is invaluable.
3. Listen to Native Speakers
Expose yourself to authentic French conversations, movies, and songs to enhance your comprehension and fluency. Listening to native speakers will help you absorb the correct pronunciation and usage of “ninety” in different contexts.
4. Engage in Conversations
Find opportunities to engage in conversations with French speakers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek clarification about the usage of “ninety” or other numbers. Practice makes perfect, after all!
In Conclusion
Congratulations on taking the first steps toward mastering the French language! In this guide, you’ve learned about formal and informal ways to say “ninety” in French, including regional variations. Remember to practice pronunciation, memorize common numbers, listen to native speakers, and engage in conversations to ensure your progress.
Bon courage! (Good luck!)
