Bonjour! If you’re looking to learn how to say numbers in French, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to impress your French-speaking friends, travel to a French-speaking country, or simply expand your language skills, mastering numbers is an essential part of your journey. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing numbers in French, including tips, examples, and some regional variations.
Table of Contents
Cardinal Numbers
Cardinal numbers are used to express quantity or to count objects, people, and more. Let’s start with the basics:
0 to 10
Here are the numbers from zero to ten:
- 0 – zéro
- 1 – un (informal), un(e) (formal)
- 2 – deux
- 3 – trois
- 4 – quatre
- 5 – cinq
- 6 – six
- 7 – sept
- 8 – huit
- 9 – neuf
- 10 – dix
11 to 20
When expressing numbers between 11 and 20 in French, you start with the word for “ten” (dix) and then add the remaining unit:
- 11 – onze
- 12 – douze
- 13 – treize
- 14 – quatorze
- 15 – quinze
- 16 – seize
- 17 – dix-sept
- 18 – dix-huit
- 19 – dix-neuf
- 20 – vingt
Multiples of Ten
From 21 to 69, the pattern is to state the multiple of ten and then add the desired unit, connected with a hyphen:
- 21 – vingt et un(e)
- 30 – trente
- 40 – quarante
- 50 – cinquante
- 60 – soixante
- 70 – soixante-dix
- 80 – quatre-vingts
- 90 – quatre-vingt-dix
- 100 – cent
Formal and Informal Ways
It is important to note that there aren’t significant differences between formal and informal ways of saying numbers in French. However, it is common to use the word “un(e)” instead of just “un” in more polite or formal conversations in order to distinguish between the number “one” and the indefinite article “a/an”. For instance:
Formal: J’ai un chat. (I have a cat.)
Informal: J’ai un(e) chat. (I have one cat.)
Regional Variations
While the cardinal numbers we’ve discussed are widely used throughout the French-speaking world, there are some regional variations you may come across:
Belgium and Switzerland
In Belgium and Switzerland, numbers from 70 to 99 differ from those used in the rest of the French-speaking world. Here’s how they are expressed:
- 70 – septante
- 71 – septante et un
- 80 – huitante (Switzerland) or octante (Belgium)
- 81 – huitante et un (Switzerland) or octante et un (Belgium)
- 90 – nonante
- 91 – nonante et un
Tips for Practicing
Learning numbers in French can be challenging, but with dedication and practice, it becomes easier. Here are some tips to help you master number pronunciation:
1. Listen and Repeat
Find online resources, podcasts, or videos where native French speakers say numbers. Listen carefully and repeat after them to improve your pronunciation.
2. Count Everything
Count objects around you, whether it’s fruits, books, or even random items. This simple exercise will reinforce your knowledge of numbers.
3. Use Flashcards
Create flashcards with numbers on one side and their French pronunciation on the other. Test yourself regularly to strengthen your memory.
4. Practice with a Language Partner
If possible, find a native French speaker who can help you practice saying numbers correctly. Regular conversations will boost your confidence.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve made it through this comprehensive guide on how to say numbers in French. Remember to practice regularly and be patient with yourself. Soon, expressing numbers, whether formally or informally, will become second nature to you. Keep exploring the beautiful French language and enjoy your journey to fluency!
