How to Count in French: Essential Numbers for Beginners

Understanding French Numbers Basics

Learning to count in French involves understanding both the numbers and the pronunciation. Just like in English, French numbers have patterns and exceptions that can initially seem challenging. However, once you grasp the basics, it becomes much easier.

Cardinal Numbers 1-10

Key Numbers 11-20

Tens and Beyond

Once you've learned the numbers up to twenty, counting in tens becomes more straightforward. The words for the tens include "vingt" for 20, "trente" for 30, "quarante" for 40, "cinquante" for 50, "soixante" for 60, "soixante-dix" for 70, "quatre-vingt" for 80, and "quatre-vingt-dix" for 90.

Patterns in French Numbers

The pattern for numbers 21 through 99 can be a bit different compared to English. After reaching 70, the French system becomes less linear: for 70-79, it's literally sixty plus the additional number. For instance, "soixante-dix" (70) is "sixty-ten", and for 80-89, it's a multiplication: "quatre-vingts" (80) meaning "four twenties".

Counting in Everyday Situations

Knowing numbers not only helps with basic math but also with everyday situations in France, such as shopping, telling the time, or discussing dates. Practice by incorporating French numbers into these daily activities.