The Structure of French Numbers: An Overview
Before diving into 70, 80, and 90 specifically, it’s helpful to review how French numbers generally work. French numbers from 0 to 69 follow a fairly predictable pattern. However, starting at 70, the rules change, and this is where many learners stumble. Unlike English, where “seventy,” “eighty,” and “ninety” are separate words, French combines smaller numbers in a unique way.
How to Say 70 in French
The Construction of 70
In French, 70 is not a unique word. Instead, it is expressed as “soixante-dix,” which literally translates to “sixty-ten.” The logic is that you start with sixty (soixante) and add ten (dix):
- 70 = soixante-dix (60 + 10)
Forming Numbers from 71 to 79
The same pattern continues for numbers 71 through 79, where you simply add the appropriate number (from 11 to 19) to “soixante”:
- 71 = soixante-et-onze (60 + 11)
- 72 = soixante-douze (60 + 12)
- …and so on up to 79: soixante-dix-neuf (60 + 19)
Pronunciation Tips
Pronouncing “soixante-dix” can be tricky. Break it down as “swah-sawnt-dees.” Make sure to blend the syllables smoothly for a natural French sound.
How to Say 80 in French
The Construction of 80
Unlike English or even other Romance languages, French uses a multiplication for 80. The word is “quatre-vingts,” which translates to “four twenties” (4 x 20):
- 80 = quatre-vingts (4 x 20)
Notice the “s” at the end of “vingts.” This “s” is only present when it is exactly 80, not when additional numbers are added.
Forming Numbers from 81 to 89
For 81 to 89, add the numbers 1 to 9 after “quatre-vingt” (without the “s”):
- 81 = quatre-vingt-un
- 82 = quatre-vingt-deux
- …up to 89: quatre-vingt-neuf
Pronunciation Tips
Say “quatre-vingts” as “katr-vahn.” For 81 and above, drop the final “s” sound and connect the words smoothly.
How to Say 90 in French
The Construction of 90
For 90, French combines “quatre-vingt” and “dix” to form “quatre-vingt-dix,” which means “four twenties ten” (4 x 20 + 10):
- 90 = quatre-vingt-dix (80 + 10)
Forming Numbers from 91 to 99
Numbers from 91 to 99 are built by adding numbers 11 to 19 to “quatre-vingt”:
- 91 = quatre-vingt-onze (80 + 11)
- 92 = quatre-vingt-douze (80 + 12)
- …up to 99: quatre-vingt-dix-neuf (80 + 19)
Pronunciation Tips
“Quatre-vingt-dix” is pronounced “katr-vahn-dees.” Keep your pronunciation fluid, and practice blending the syllables for a more native-like sound.
Key Takeaways for French Learners
- French numbers 70, 80, and 90 are formed through combinations and multiplications, not unique words.
- Practice saying “soixante-dix,” “quatre-vingts,” and “quatre-vingt-dix” until it feels natural.
- Remember the small differences for numbers ending in 1 (like “soixante-et-onze” for 71 and “quatre-vingt-un” for 81).
Practice Makes Perfect
Mastering French numbers is a vital step in becoming fluent. Try writing numbers, saying them aloud, and using language learning tools like Talkpal to reinforce your knowledge. With regular practice and a clear understanding of how numbers 70, 80, and 90 are formed, you’ll boost your confidence and sound more like a native French speaker.
Conclusion
French numbers can seem confusing at first, especially with the unique patterns for 70, 80, and 90. But with a bit of practice and the right approach, you can master them quickly. Remember to review, repeat, and reinforce your learning with resources like Talkpal, and soon you’ll be counting in French with ease and accuracy!
