In German, the numbers from 11 to 20 follow a logical pattern that links them to the base numbers 1 through 10. After 12, the numbers 13 to 19 are formed by attaching -zehn (similar to "-teen" in English) to the root of the base number, with slight modifications for 16 and 17. This system reflects the language's characteristic structure and makes it easier to learn higher numbers.
- 11: elf
- 12: zwölf
- 13: dreizehn
- 14: vierzehn
- 15: fünfzehn
- 16: sechzehn
- 17: siebzehn
- 18: achtzehn
- 19: neunzehn
- 20: zwanzig
11–20: Details and Usage
- 11 (elf) and 12 (zwölf) are unique words, not based on the root numbers.
- From 13 to 19, the numbers are formed by combining the root number + "zehn" (e.g., 13 = drei + zehn).
- For 16 (sechzehn) and 17 (siebzehn), the roots are slightly modified (sechs, sieben).
- 20 (zwanzig) is the start of a new pattern for counting beyond ten.
Example Sentences:
- Ich bin zwölf Jahre alt. (I am twelve years old.)
- Das Buch kostet sechzehn Euro. (The book costs sixteen euros.)
Conclusion
German numbers from 11 to 20 reveal a fascinating blend of unique words and systematic construction, making them both memorable and a key to understanding higher numbers.
- 11 and 12 are unique: elf, zwölf.
- 13–19 combine the number root + "zehn," with some spelling tweaks.
- 20 (zwanzig) starts a new pattern for counting above ten.