Learning how to say numbers in Japanese is essential for basic communication. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways of stating numbers from 1 to 100. While there aren’t significant regional variations, we’ll highlight any notable differences along the way. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of numbers in Japanese and be able to confidently use them in various contexts.
Table of Contents
Formal Numbers (1-10)
Let’s start with the formal way of saying numbers from 1 to 10 in Japanese. Memorize these digits as they serve as building blocks for larger numbers.
- 1 – ichi: Pronounced as ‘ee-chee’.
- 2 – ni: Pronounced as ‘nee’.
- 3 – san: Pronounced as ‘sahn’.
- 4 – shi: Pronounced as ‘shee’. Note: Four can also be pronounced as ‘yon’ to avoid potential associations with death.
- 5 – go: Pronounced as ‘goh’.
- 6 – roku: Pronounced as ‘roh-koo’.
- 7 – shichi: Pronounced as ‘shee-chee’. Note: Seven can also be pronounced as ‘nana’.
- 8 – hachi: Pronounced as ‘hah-chee’.
- 9 – kyū: Pronounced as ‘kyoo’.
- 10 – jū: Pronounced as ‘joo’.
Formal Numbers (11-100)
To create numbers from 11 to 100, you need to combine the above digits. Let’s observe the pattern:
Digit(s) + Jū + Digit(s)
Example: 11 (10 + 1) – jūichi (‘joo-ee-chee’)
Following this pattern, you’ll be able to construct numbers from 11 to 99. However, there’s a slight variation when it comes to multiples of 10. Instead of using ‘jū’, you use ‘jū’ with ‘hyaku’.
- 20 – ni-jū: Pronounced as ‘nee-joo’. (2 * 10)
- 30 – san-jū: Pronounced as ‘sahn-joo’. (3 * 10)
- 40 – yon-jū: Pronounced as ‘yon-joo’. (4 * 10)
- 50 – go-jū: Pronounced as ‘goh-joo’. (5 * 10)
- 60 – roku-jū: Pronounced as ‘roh-koo-joo’. (6 * 10)
- 70 – nana-jū: Pronounced as ‘nana-joo’. (7 * 10)
- 80 – hachi-jū: Pronounced as ‘hah-chee-joo’. (8 * 10)
- 90 – kyū-jū: Pronounced as ‘kyoo-joo’. (9 * 10)
Informal Numbers
In casual conversations, Japanese speakers often use alternative pronunciations for certain numbers. Let’s explore the informal variants of the formal numbers.
- 1 – ichi: Informal variations include ‘itchi’ and ‘hito’.
- 3 – san: Informal variant is pronounced as ‘mi’ in some regions.
- 4 – shi: Informal variant is ‘yon’ to avoid association with death.
- 7 – shichi: Informal variant is pronounced as ‘nana’.
- 9 – kyū: Informal variant is pronounced as ‘ku’ to ease pronunciation in some cases.
Regional Variations
While there aren’t major regional variations in numbers, there are a few notable differences to be aware of:
- In the Kansai region, ‘4’ is often pronounced as ‘shi’ rather than ‘yon’.
- In some parts of the Tohoku region, ‘7’ can be pronounced as ‘shitchi’ instead of ‘nana’.
- In parts of Okinawa, ‘6’ is pronounced as ‘ruku’.
- Some regions may have specific colloquial or dialectal variations for particular numbers, but these won’t affect general communication.
Summary
In summary, learning numbers in Japanese is crucial for effective communication. By familiarizing yourself with the formal and informal variations of numbers from 1 to 100, you can confidently express quantities, talk about prices, understand time, and much more. Remember the building blocks for numbers 1-10, and how to combine them to create larger numbers using the pattern Digit(s) + Jū + Digit(s). Stay aware of any regional variations you may encounter, but rest assured that the formal way of saying numbers is widely understood throughout Japan. Practice and repetition will help you master the pronunciation and usage of Japanese numbers. Enjoy your journey of learning Japanese and have fun incorporating numbers into your conversations!
