Learning numbers in a foreign language is an essential part of your language journey. In this guide, we will explore how to express the number “seventy” in French. We will cover both formal and informal ways of saying it, and we’ll also touch on regional variations where necessary. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide you with useful tips and examples to help you grasp the concept easily. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Seventy
When it comes to formal situations in French, there is a specific rule to form numbers above sixty-nine. Unlike in English, where compound numbers are used, in French, they are structured differently. Let’s see how to express “seventy” formally:
Soixante-dix
The literal translation of “soixante-dix” is “sixty-ten.” This structure continues up to 99, where you combine the words for multiples of tens with single digits. This unique way of expressing numbers can be tricky at first, but with practice, you will become more comfortable.
Let’s explore a couple of examples to illustrate this:
- Seventy-one: Soixante-et-onze (sixty-eleven)
- Seventy-five: Soixante-quinze (sixty-fifteen)
- Seventy-nine: Soixante-dix-neuf (sixty-nine)
As you can see, to express numbers between seventy and eighty-nine, you simply combine “soixante” (sixty) with the single-digit number. The pattern continues until ninety-nine. Practice saying them out loud to get the hang of it!
Informal Ways to Say Seventy
In informal contexts, such as casual conversations among friends or family, native French speakers often use an alternative way to say “seventy.” Instead of the formal “soixante-dix,” they tend to use the following expressions:
- Septante: This is the most commonly used term in Belgian French and Swiss French to mean “seventy.” It’s straightforward to use and is a direct translation of the number “seventy.”
- Le septante: In the Swiss French dialect, you may hear the article “le” added before “septante.” For example, “le septante-deux” means “seventy-two.”
It’s worth mentioning that while these informal variations are widely understood in French-speaking regions outside of France, they are not commonly used in standard French.
Additional Tips for Numbers in French
Learning numbers can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you master them:
- Practice Pronunciation: Numbers have specific sounds in French, and practicing their pronunciation is crucial. Use online resources or language apps to listen to the correct pronunciation repeatedly.
- Use Flashcards: Create flashcards with French numbers and test yourself regularly. Repetition is key when it comes to memorization.
- Read and Listen to French: Expose yourself to French language materials, such as books, newspapers, and podcasts, to reinforce your understanding of numbers and their usage in context.
Remember, learning a new language takes time and practice. So be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way!
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve covered the formal and informal ways to say “seventy” in French. Remember that in formal contexts, you should use “soixante-dix,” while in informal situations, “septante” is widely recognized outside of France. By following the tips provided and practicing regularly, you’ll soon become confident in expressing numbers in French. Happy learning!
