Guide: How to Say Numbers in Sinhala

Learning how to say numbers in Sinhala is a helpful skill whether you are visiting Sri Lanka, interacting with Sinhala-speaking friends, or simply want to expand your language abilities. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways of expressing numbers in Sinhala, providing useful tips, examples, and essential phrases. Let’s get started!

Formal and Informal Ways to Say Numbers

Sinhala, being an official language of Sri Lanka, has both formal and informal ways of expressing numbers. The formal style is typically used in official settings, while the informal style is suitable for casual conversations. Let’s take a look at both:

Formal Style

In the formal style, numbers in Sinhala follow a slightly more complex system compared to the informal style. Here are some key rules to keep in mind:

1. Units: Starting from one to ten, the Sinhala numbers are as follows:
   

   1 – ekak
   2 – deka
   3 – thuna
   4 – hathara
   5 – paha
   6 – haya
   7 – hathuru
   8 – atuwa
   9 – namaya
   10 – dahaya

2. Tens: To express numbers from eleven to ninety-nine, Sinhala utilizes a combination of tens and units. For example:
   

   11 – ekolakuma dahaya
   25 – hathlamaya paha

   Note that the numbers from eleven to nineteen follow a unique pattern.

3. Hundreds: When dealing with numbers in hundreds, Sinhala uses the base number followed by the word “hathara.” For example:
   

   100 – ekәthi hathara
   900 – namayәthi hathara

4. Thousands, Millions, and Billions: Sinhala words for larger numbers have similarities with English. Here are some examples:
   

   1,000 – dunna
   1,000,000 – laksha
   1,000,000,000 – koti

By following these rules, you can express numbers correctly in a formal setting. However, for day-to-day conversations, especially with friends and family, the informal style can be used.

Informal Style

The informal style of saying numbers in Sinhala is much simpler and commonly used in everyday situations. Here are the key features:

1. Units and Tens: The informal style follows the same pattern as the formal style for numbers from one to ten and from eleven to ninety-nine.
2. Hundreds, Thousands, Millions, and Billions: For larger numbers, Sinhala uses the same words as in the formal style:

100 – ekәthi hathara
1,000 – dunna
1,000,000 – laksha
1,000,000,000 – koti

Now that you have an understanding of the formal and informal ways to express numbers in Sinhala, let’s look at some tips to help you sound more natural:

Tips for Saying Numbers in Sinhala

1. Emphasize Syllables: In Sinhala, it is crucial to emphasize the correct syllables while pronouncing numbers. Pay attention to stress the relevant syllables to ensure accurate communication.

2. Practice Pronunciation: Practice pronouncing Sinhala numbers regularly. Start with smaller numbers and gradually move to larger ones. This will help you gain confidence and fluency.

3. Listen to Native Speakers: Listening to native Sinhala speakers is an excellent way to learn the correct pronunciation and intonation of numbers. Online resources, language exchange programs, and conversations with native speakers will be beneficial in improving your skills.

4. Use Numbers in Context: Incorporate number vocabulary into your daily life. Use them while counting objects, expressing time, or discussing quantities. This practical exposure will reinforce your learning and make it more effective.

5. Break Down Complex Numbers: If you come across a large number, break it down into smaller parts to simplify the pronunciation. This technique will make it easier for you to convey the number accurately.

Remember, language learning is a process, and with consistent practice and exposure, you will gradually become more proficient. Now, let’s go through some examples to see how numbers are utilized in Sinhala:

Examples

Here are a few examples of numbers in Sinhala:

• 25 – hathlamaya paha
• 100 – ekәthi hathara
• 437 – thana hathara thuna hathara hathlamaya
• 1,000 – dunna
• 10,000 – dahaya dunna
• 1,000,000 – laksha
• 135,246 – thanaya thuwalaya hade hathara paha haya kala hathlamaya

By following the pronunciation rules and practicing these examples, you will soon become comfortable with expressing numbers in Sinhala.

Congratulations on taking the initiative to learn the numbers in Sinhala! With these formal and informal expressions, useful tips, and various examples, you are now equipped to communicate numbers confidently in Sinhala. Keep practicing and enjoy your language learning journey!