How to Count and Use Numbers in Indonesian for English Speakers

Introduction to Numbers in Indonesian

Numbers are an essential part of any language. In Indonesian, counting is straightforward and logical, making it easier for English speakers to learn. This article will guide you through the basics of numbers and counting in Indonesian, helping you build a strong foundation.

Basic Indonesian Numbers from 1 to 10

Here are the Indonesian numbers from one to ten, along with their English translations and pronunciations:

Pronunciation Tips

Most Indonesian numbers are pronounced as they are spelled. For example, satu is pronounced as /ˈsa.tu/. The stress is usually on the first syllable.

Numbers from 11 to 20

Numbers from 11 to 19 are formed by combining the word for the unit number with the word belas, which means 'teen'.

1. Sebelas (11) - literally 'one teen'
2. Dua belas (12) - 'two teen'
3. Tiga belas (13) - 'three teen'
4. Empat belas (14) - 'four teen'
5. Lima belas (15) - 'five teen'
6. Enam belas (16) - 'six teen'
7. Tujuh belas (17) - 'seven teen'
8. Delapan belas (18) - 'eight teen'
9. Sembilan belas (19) - 'nine teen'

The number 20 is dua puluh, which literally means 'two tens'.

Counting by Tens and Larger Numbers

Counting beyond 20 follows a logical pattern by combining the tens and units.

• 20 - Dua puluh (two tens)
• 30 - Tiga puluh (three tens)
• 40 - Empat puluh (four tens)
• 50 - Lima puluh (five tens)
• 60 - Enam puluh (six tens)
• 70 - Tujuh puluh (seven tens)
• 80 - Delapan puluh (eight tens)
• 90 - Sembilan puluh (nine tens)

To form numbers between these tens, simply say the tens followed by the unit number. For example, 21 is dua puluh satu (two tens one).

Hundreds, Thousands, and Beyond

Here are some larger numbers in Indonesian:

Note that seratus and seribu use the prefix se- to mean 'one' hundred or thousand.

Using Numbers in Everyday Indonesian

Numbers are used in many daily situations such as telling time, shopping, and giving phone numbers. Practice using numbers in context to improve your fluency.

Example: Telling Time

To say 'It's three o'clock' in Indonesian, you say Jam tiga. The word jam means 'hour' or 'o'clock'.

Example: Shopping

If you want to say 'I want five apples', you say Saya mau lima apel. The number comes before the noun.