Swahili is a beautiful language spoken by millions of people in East Africa. Whether you’re planning a trip to Kenya, Tanzania, or just want to expand your linguistic repertoire, learning how to say numbers in Swahili is a fundamental skill. In this guide, we will cover both the formal and informal ways of saying numbers, providing you with useful tips and examples along the way.
1. Cardinal numbers
Cardinal numbers are used to denote quantity, and they form the basis for counting objects, people, and more. Here are the cardinal numbers from 1 to 10 in Swahili:
1. moja (moh-jah)
2. mbili (mbi-lee)
3. tatu (tah-too)
4. nne (nneh)
5. tano (tah-noh)
6. sita (see-tah)
7. saba (sah-bah)
8. nane (nah-neh)
9. tisa (tee-sah)
10. kumi (koo-mee)
To form numbers beyond 10, simply use these cardinal numbers and add the appropriate ten’s place prefix. For example, to say 15, you would combine “kumi” (10) with “tano” (5), resulting in “kumi na tano.”
2. Formal and Informal Numbers
Swahili, like many languages, has different levels of formality. When it comes to numbers, people tend to use more formal constructions in professional or official settings. The informal way of saying numbers is commonly used in everyday conversations among friends, family, and peers.
2.1 Formal Numbers Examples
Let’s take a look at some examples of formal number usage in Swahili:
- Formal: Mimi ninazo zaidi ya mia mbili na arobaini na sita (I have more than 246).
- Formal: Safari yao iliishia nyumbani jana saa kumi na moja alfajiri (Their journey ended at home yesterday at 11 a.m.).
2.2 Informal Numbers Examples
Now, let’s explore informal number usage in Swahili through some examples:
- Informal: Nitakupa tatu tu kwa ada ya kumi (I’ll give you just three for ten shillings).
- Informal: Leo nimeamka saa tano asubuhi (I woke up at 5 a.m. today).
3. Tips for Pronouncing Numbers
When pronouncing numbers in Swahili, it’s essential to know a few tips to get the pronunciation right. Here are some helpful tips:
3.1 Emphasize the correct syllables
In Swahili, the second-to-last syllable in a word usually receives the most emphasis. For example, in “mbili” (two) and “tano” (five), the “bi” and “ta” syllables are emphasized respectively.
3.2 Pay attention to vowel length
Vowel length is crucial in Swahili. A long vowel is denoted by a double vowel letter, while a short vowel has a single vowel letter. Be sure to pay attention to vowel lengths while pronouncing numbers, as it can affect the meaning of a word. For example, “mama” means mother, while “mamaa” means 50.
3.3 Familiarize yourself with Swahili sounds
Swahili has its own distinct sounds. To pronounce numbers accurately, familiarize yourself with the Swahili alphabet, including its consonants and unique vowel sounds.
4. Regional Variations
Swahili is spoken across several East African countries. While there may be slight regional variations in the language, the numbers we’ve covered here are generally understood throughout the Swahili-speaking regions. These numbers will serve as a solid foundation for your interactions with Swahili speakers in various countries.
5. Summary
Congratulations! You’ve learned the basics of how to say numbers in Swahili. Remember to practice the pronunciation, pay attention to formality, and embrace the rich linguistic heritage of East Africa. By incorporating these numbers into your Swahili vocabulary, you’ll be well on your way to hold conversations and navigate various situations in Swahili-speaking communities. Karibu (Welcome) to the world of Swahili numbers!
