Understanding the Basics: German Numbers 1 to 20

Before diving into more complex numbers, it is essential to get comfortable with the fundamentals. The numbers from 1 to 20 in German form the foundation for counting and are frequently used in daily conversations.

German Numbers 1 to 10

Here are the German numbers from one to ten, along with their pronunciations:

• 1 – eins [ayns]
• 2 – zwei [tsvay]
• 3 – drei [dry]
• 4 – vier [feer]
• 5 – fünf [fünf]
• 6 – sechs [zeks]
• 7 – sieben [ZEE-ben]
• 8 – acht [ahkt]
• 9 – neun [noyn]
• 10 – zehn [tsayn]

Mastering these ten numbers is crucial as they appear frequently in daily German speech.

Numbers 11 to 20

Numbers 11 through 20 are slightly more complex but follow recognizable patterns:

• 11 – elf [elf]
• 12 – zwölf [tsvölf]
• 13 – dreizehn [dry-tsayn]
• 14 – vierzehn [feer-tsayn]
• 15 – fünfzehn [fünf-tsayn]
• 16 – sechzehn [zekh-tsayn]
• 17 – siebzehn [zeep-tsayn]
• 18 – achtzehn [ahkt-tsayn]
• 19 – neunzehn [noyn-tsayn]
• 20 – zwanzig [TSVAN-tsig]

Notice the suffix “-zehn,” which corresponds to the English “-teen.” Becoming comfortable with these will help when moving on to higher numbers.

The Structure of German Numbers Beyond 20

Counting beyond 20 in German introduces a unique feature: the inversion of the digit order compared to English.

How to Count from 21 to 99

From 21 onwards, German numbers are constructed by saying the unit digit first, then “und” (meaning “and”), and then the tens digit. For example:

• 21 – einundzwanzig (one and twenty)
• 35 – fünfunddreißig (five and thirty)
• 47 – siebenundvierzig (seven and forty)
• 59 – neunundfünfzig (nine and fifty)
• 88 – achtundachtzig (eight and eighty)

This pattern continues consistently up to 99. This inversion can be tricky for learners but is essential to master for fluency.

Pronunciation Tips for Numbers 21-99

– The “und” is pronounced like the English “oont.”
– Pay attention to the “ß” character in numbers like 30 (dreißig) and 80 (achtzig), which sounds like a sharp “s.”
– Practice breaking the words into components: unit + und + tens to aid memorization.

Counting by Hundreds, Thousands, and Beyond

Once numbers under 100 are mastered, it is time to learn how to count higher.

Hundreds

– 100 – hundert [HOON-dert]
– 200 – zweihundert [tsvay-HOON-dert]
– 300 – dreihundert [dry-HOON-dert]

Numbers between 101 and 199 follow the pattern of “hundert” plus the smaller number:

– 101 – hundert eins
– 156 – hundert sechsundfünfzig

Thousands

– 1,000 – tausend [TAU-zent]
– 2,000 – zweitausend
– 10,000 – zehntausend

For numbers like 1,234, you say “eintausend zweihundert vierunddreißig.”

Millions and Billions

– 1,000,000 – eine Million
– 1,000,000,000 – eine Milliarde

Note that “Million” and “Milliarde” are feminine nouns in German, so they require the appropriate articles.

Common Uses of Numbers in German Language and Culture

Dates and Time

– Dates use cardinal numbers (e.g., 1. Januar – first of January).
– Time is often expressed with the 24-hour clock (e.g., 15:30 – fünfzehn Uhr dreißig).

Prices and Money

– Prices are read with decimal commas instead of points (e.g., 3,50 € is drei Euro fünfzig).

Phone Numbers and Addresses

– Numbers are pronounced digit by digit.
– It is common to spell out numbers clearly to avoid confusion.

Practical Tips for Learning How to Count in German

• Use Talkpal: Talkpal offers interactive speaking and listening exercises to practice numbers in context.
• Memorize in Chunks: Group numbers in sets (1-10, 11-20, 21-30) for easier retention.
• Practice Pronunciation: Use audio tools to master tricky sounds like “ß” and “ü.”
• Apply Numbers Daily: Try to count objects around you in German to build familiarity.
• Understand Number Grammar: Learn how numbers affect noun cases (e.g., singular vs. plural forms).

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Counting in German

• Mixing Up Digit Order: Remember that numbers from 21-99 invert the order compared to English.
• Incorrect Pronunciation of “und”: It should be pronounced as a single sound, not separately.
• Forgetting Gender in Large Numbers: “Million” and “Milliarde” are feminine and require articles.
• Overusing “eins” in Compound Numbers: Use “ein” instead of “eins” in compound numbers (e.g., einundzwanzig, not einsundzwanzig).

How Talkpal Enhances Your German Number Learning Experience

Talkpal stands out as an excellent tool for learners aiming to master how to count in German due to its interactive and immersive approach. Features include:

• Real-Time Practice: Engage in conversations with native speakers or AI tutors to practice counting naturally.
• Customizable Lessons: Focus on number ranges that match your current level and goals.
• Pronunciation Feedback: Immediate correction helps you perfect tricky sounds.
• Contextual Learning: Numbers are taught within useful contexts like shopping, scheduling, and travel.

This method ensures that counting in German becomes not just memorization but a practical skill.

Conclusion

Understanding how to count in German is an essential step toward fluency, opening doors to everyday communication, travel, and cultural integration. From the basics of numbers 1 to 20, through the unique structure of numbers 21 to 99, to handling large numbers and practical usage, mastering this skill requires consistent practice and good resources. Talkpal offers an effective and engaging platform that supports learners through every stage of this journey, making it easier to internalize German numbers and use them confidently. By combining structured learning with immersive practice, you can quickly progress in your ability to count and communicate in German with ease.