Learning numbers
Counting from 1 to 100 and Beyond in Dutch
Whether you’re shopping, asking for directions, or simply telling the time, knowing numbers is essential in any language. Dutch numbers follow some simple patterns, making them easier to learn once you understand the basics. Let’s dive into the numbers in Dutch and how to use them!
### 1. Counting from 1 to 10
Let’s start with the basics. Here are the numbers from 1 to 10 in Dutch:
- 1 – één
- 2 – twee
- 3 – drie
- 4 – vier
- 5 – vijf
- 6 – zes
- 7 – zeven
- 8 – acht
- 9 – negen
- 10 – tien
These are essential numbers to memorize, as they form the foundation for all other numbers.
### 2. Numbers from 11 to 20
The numbers from 11 to 20 have unique names but still follow patterns seen in other Germanic languages.
- 11 – elf
- 12 – twaalf
- 13 – dertien
- 14 – veertien
- 15 – vijftien
- 16 – zestien
- 17 – zeventien
- 18 – achttien
- 19 – negentien
- 20 – twintig
Notice that many of these numbers end with “-tien,” which is like adding “-teen” in English.
### 3. Counting by Tens: 20 to 100
Once you know the numbers up to 20, learning by tens becomes straightforward. Here are the tens in Dutch:
- 20 – twintig
- 30 – dertig
- 40 – veertig
- 50 – vijftig
- 60 – zestig
- 70 – zeventig
- 80 – tachtig
- 90 – negentig
- 100 – honderd
### 4. Combining Numbers: 21 to 99
To form numbers between tens, Dutch uses a unique but logical structure. For instance, to say “21,” you’d say “éénentwintig,” which translates directly to “one and twenty.” Here are a few examples:
- 21 – éénentwintig
- 34 – vierendertig
- 56 – zesenvijftig
- 78 – achtenzeventig
- 99 – negenennegentig
### 5. Using Numbers in Everyday Dutch
Knowing numbers can help you navigate daily situations in Dutch-speaking areas. Here are some practical ways to use numbers:
- Telling time – "Het is vier uur" (It’s four o’clock).
- Shopping – "Dit kost tien euro" (This costs ten euros).
- Asking for age – "Hoe oud ben je?" (How old are you?), with responses like "Ik ben dertig" (I am thirty).
### 6. Practice Tips for Learning Numbers
- Practice counting out loud – Repetition is key when memorizing numbers.
- Use flashcards – Write the Dutch number on one side and the English translation on the other.
- Incorporate numbers into daily activities – Count in Dutch when cooking, doing exercises, or checking the time.
With these basics, you’re ready to start using numbers in Dutch! Practicing them regularly will help you feel more comfortable in conversations, and soon you’ll be counting fluently in Dutch.