How to Use Numbers Above One Hundred in Czech for English Speakers

Understanding Numbers Above One Hundred in Czech

In Czech, numbers above one hundred follow specific patterns that are important to understand for correct usage. Unlike English, where numbers are often grouped by thousands, Czech uses a combination of words and suffixes to express large numbers.

Basic Structure of Numbers Above 100

The word for one hundred in Czech is sto. Numbers from 101 to 199 are formed by combining sto with the smaller numbers. For example, 101 is sto jedna (literally "hundred one"), and 115 is sto patnáct ("hundred fifteen").

Forming Hundreds Beyond 200

For multiples of one hundred beyond 100, Czech uses the root number plus the suffix -set. For example:

• 200 - dvě stě
• 300 - tři sta
• 400 - čtyři sta
• 500 - pět set
• 600 - šest set
• 700 - sedm set
• 800 - osm set
• 900 - devět set

Note that the form of the word for hundred changes slightly depending on the number preceding it.

Combining Hundreds with Smaller Numbers

To say numbers like 234 or 578, you combine the hundred form with the smaller numbers. For example:

• 234 - dvě stě třicet čtyři (two hundred thirty-four)
• 578 - pět set sedmdesát osm (five hundred seventy-eight)

Thousands and Beyond

The word for one thousand is tisíc. Numbers above one thousand are formed by combining the number with tisíc. For example:

• 1,000 - tisíc
• 2,000 - dva tisíce
• 5,000 - pět tisíc

Note the plural form tisíce used for 2,000 to 4,000 and tisíc for 5,000 and above.

Examples of Large Numbers

Here are some examples of larger numbers in Czech:

• 1,234 - tisíc dvě stě třicet čtyři
• 10,000 - deset tisíc
• 100,000 - sto tisíc
• 1,000,000 - milion

Tips for English Speakers Learning Czech Numbers

• Practice the pronunciation of Czech numbers, paying attention to the changes in word forms.
• Remember that Czech uses different forms for hundreds and thousands depending on the number.
• Use flashcards or apps to memorize common number patterns.