A Comprehensive Guide to Numbers in Nepali Grammar

Introduction to the Nepali Number System
The Nepali number system, derived from the ancient Indian number system, is a unique and intricate component of the language. This system presents a fascinating aspect of Nepali grammar, which is the principal language of Nepal and serves as the country’s official language. In this guide, you will discover the characteristics, variations, and rules surrounding numbers in Nepali grammar.

Nepali Cardinal Numbers: Counting in Nepali

Cardinal numbers, also known as the basic counting numbers, are essential in any language. In Nepali, these numbers are used to express quantities or indicate the order of items. Here is a list of cardinal numbers from one to ten in Nepali along with their English translations:

1. एक (ek) – One
2. दुई (dui) – Two
3. तिन (tin) – Three
4. चार (chaar) – Four
5. पाँच (paanch) – Five
6. छ (chha) – Six
7. सात (saat) – Seven
8. आठ (aath) – Eight
9. नौ (nau) – Nine
10. दश (dash) – Ten

Nepali Ordinal Numbers: Indicating Order

Ordinal numbers in Nepali are used to indicate the order or sequence of items. They are created by adding the suffix ‘-औं’ (-auṁ) to the cardinal numbers. Below are a few examples of Nepali ordinal numbers:

1. पहिलो (pahilo) – First
2. दोस्रो (dosro) – Second
3. तेस्रो (tesro) – Third

Forming Higher Numbers in Nepali

Counting Further
To form higher numbers in Nepali, it is crucial to understand the structure of the language and how numbers are combined. Here are some examples:

• एकैसय (ekaisay) – Eleven (10+1)
• बीस (bees) – Twenty
• तिस (tis) – Thirty
• एकत्तिस (ekattis) – Thirty-one (30+1)

Large Numerals
When it comes to larger numerals in Nepali, words are formed by using a combination of different numerals. For example:

• शंख (shankh) – A hundred thousand
• महाशंख (mahashankh) – Ten million
• पद्म (padma) – A billion

Using Numbers in Sentences

In Nepali grammar, numbers are used in sentences to denote age, quantity, or order. For instance:

• म त्यस्तो फल दुई किनेँ। (Ma tyasto phal dui kinē) – I bought two such fruits.
• नेपालमा आठ टोप टीमहरू छन्। (Nepālmā āṭh ṭōp ṭīmharū chan) – There are eight top teams in Nepal.

Conclusion

Numbers in Nepali grammar encompass a range of different aspects, including cardinal and ordinal numbers, variations in forming higher numbers, and their usage in sentences. By understanding this unique number system, you can more effectively communicate and navigate the world of the Nepali language.