In this guide, we will be exploring how to say numbers in Malayalam, both formally and informally. Malayalam, a language spoken primarily in the Indian state of Kerala, features its own unique system of numeral words. While there are regional variations within Kerala, we will focus on the common forms of number expression. Let’s dive in and learn how to count in Malayalam!
Table of Contents
Cardinal Numbers: Formal and Informal
Cardinal numbers are used to express the quantity or to count nouns. In Malayalam, there are specific terms for each numeral. Here is the list of formal and informal ways of saying numbers in Malayalam:
1. Informal Numbers:
- 0: ‘sunna’ or ‘shunya’
- 1: ‘onnu’
- 2: ‘randu’
- 3: ‘munnottu’
- 4: ‘naalu’
- 5: ‘anchu’
- 6: ‘aaru’
- 7: ‘eezhu’
- 8: ‘ettu’
- 9: ‘onpathu’
- 10: ‘pathu’
In informal settings, these are the commonly used ways to express numbers. However, keep in mind that formal situations may require a distinct set of words.
2. Formal Numbers:
- 0: ‘sunyam’
- 1: ‘onnu’
- 2: ‘randu’
- 3: ‘munnu’
- 4: ‘nalu’
- 5: ‘anchu’
- 6: ‘aaru’
- 7: ‘eezhu’
- 8: ‘ettu’
- 9: ‘onpathu’
- 10: ‘pathu’
The formal way of expressing numbers is usually adopted in official or formal situations. It’s important to use the appropriate form based on the context and the people you are interacting with.
Tips for Number Expression in Malayalam:
Now that we have covered the basic numeral words, let’s explore some tips and additional examples to enhance your understanding of numbers in Malayalam:
1. Regional Variations:
While we have provided the commonly used Malayalam number terms, it’s worth noting that regional variations may exist for certain numbers within Kerala. These variations arise due to dialectical differences. However, for beginner-level Malayalam learners, focusing on the common forms will suffice in most cases.
2. Combining Numbers:
When expressing numbers larger than 10, you can combine the words to form compound numbers. For instance:
Example: 11 – ‘pathinonnu’ (10 + 1)
Example: 25 – ‘irupanchavu’ (20 + 5)
By combining the words for individual digits, you can construct the desired numeral words for larger numbers in Malayalam.
3. Hundreds, Thousands, and Beyond:
To express numbers beyond 100, the base words are used in combination. Here’s an example of such numbers:
Example: 200 – ‘randu nooru’ (2 + 100)
Example: 500 – ‘anchu nooru’ (5 + 100)
Example: 1,000 – ‘onnu aayiram’ (1 + 1,000)
Example: 1,500 – ‘pathu anchu nooru’ (10 + 5 + 100)
You can see that by combining the words for specific digits along with the base words for “hundred” and “thousand,” you can express larger numbers effortlessly.
4. Ordinal Numbers:
Ordinal numbers are used to indicate the position or order of something. In Malayalam, ordinal numbers typically follow a pattern. For example:
- 1st: ‘pattathi’
- 2nd: ‘randathathi’
- 3rd: ‘munnotam’
- 4th: ‘nattam’
- 5th: ‘anchatham’
- 10th: ‘patham’
The word endings change based on the number, and once you learn the pattern, you can easily form ordinal numbers up to the desired position.
Conclusion
Congratulations! By now, you have learned how to say numbers in Malayalam. You’re equipped with both the formal and informal ways to express quantities, as well as some tips and examples for a better understanding. Remember to consider your audience and the context when choosing which form of number expression to use. Keep practicing and expand your knowledge of Malayalam numerical vocabulary. Happy counting!
