Introduction to Counting by Tens
Counting by tens is a fundamental skill in learning numbers in French. It helps with understanding larger numbers and makes math exercises easier. In French, numbers like 10, 20, 30, etc., have unique names and follow specific pronunciation rules.
French Tens Numbers
The numbers counting by tens in French are: dix (10), vingt (20), trente (30), quarante (40), cinquante (50), soixante (60), soixante-dix (70), quatre-vingts (80), and quatre-vingt-dix (90). Each of these words is essential to build up numbers beyond the basic 1-9.
Pronunciation Tips
French tens are pronounced with subtle nuances. For example, vingt ends with a nasal sound (like "van"), and quatre-vingts sounds like "cat-ruh van." Special attention is needed for numbers after 60, where soixante-dix literally means "sixty-ten," and quatre-vingt-dix breaks into "four twenties and ten."
Using Counting by Tens
To count numbers like 21, 32, or 55 in French, you combine the tens with units. For example, 21 is vingt-et-un (twenty and one), 32 is trente-deux (thirty-two), and 55 is cinquante-cinq (fifty-five). This pattern is consistent except for some exceptions around 70-99.
Practice Exercises
Regular practice helps memorize the tens in French. Counting aloud, writing numbers, and using flashcards can reinforce learning. Try counting by tens from 10 to 100 and then create combinations like 73 or 88 to expand your skills.
