Learning numbers in Bengali (Bangla), the seventh most spoken language in the world and the official language of Bangladesh and parts of India, is a fascinating journey into its rich linguistic culture. Bengali numbers are indispensable for various aspects of daily life, including shopping, telling time, and discussing quantities. This lesson will guide you through the basics of Bengali numbers, their pronunciation, and how to use them in different contexts.

Introduction to Bengali Numerals

Bengali numerals have their unique script, derived from the ancient Brahmi script, but for the purpose of this lesson, we will focus on transliteration to facilitate pronunciation for non-native speakers. Understanding the structure and formation of numbers in Bengali will allow you to communicate more effectively and understand spoken and written Bengali better.

Basic Numbers (1-10)

The foundation of learning numbers in any language starts with 1 through 10. Here are the Bengali numbers in this range with their transliterations and approximate pronunciations:

1. এক (Ek) – [ek]
2. দুই (Dui) – [doo-i]
3. তিন (Tin) – [teen]
4. চার (Char) – [chaar]
5. পাঁচ (Pāch) – [paanch]
6. ছয় (Chhoy) – [choy]
7. সাত (Sāt) – [shaat]
8. আট (Āṭ) – [aato]
9. নয় (Noy) – [noy]
10. দশ (Dosh) – [dosh]

Forming Numbers (11-19)

The numbers 11 through 19 mostly end in either “aro” or “ero,” making them relatively straightforward:

• এগারো (Ēgārō) – [eɡaːro] – 11
• বারো (Bārō) – [baːro] – 12
• তেরো (Tērō) – [teːro] – 13
• চৌদ্দ (Caudda) – [tʃɔuddɔ] – 14
• পনেরো (Pōnērō) – [ponero] – 15
• ষোল (Ṣōla) – [ʃolo] – 16
• সতেরো (Satērō) – [sætero] – 17
• আঠারো (Āṭhārō) – [aːʈʰaːro] – 18
• ঊনিশ (Ūniś) – [uniʃ] – 19

Counting in Tens (20-100)

Numbers in the tens follow a specific pattern that is easy to grasp once you are familiar with the basics:

• ২০ কুড়ি (Kuri) – 20 [kuri]
• ৩০ ত্রিশ (Trish) – 30 [tree-sh]
• ৪০ চল্লিশ (Chollish) – 40 [chol-lish]
• ৫০ পঞ্চাশ (Ponchash) – 50 [pon-chaash]
• ৬০ ষাট (Shaat) – 60 [shaat]
• ৭০ সত্তর (Shottor) – 70 [shot-tor]
• ৮০ আশি (Aashi) – 80 [aashi]
• ৯০ নব্বই (Nobboi) – 90 [nob-boi]
• ১০০ একশো (Eksho) – 100 [ek-sho]

Compound Numbers (21-99)

For numbers 21 through 99, Bengali typically forms compound numbers by combining the tens and units, separated by a space:

• ২১ একুশ (Ekush) – 21 [e-koosh]
• ৩২ বত্রিশ (Botrish) – 32 [bo-tree-sh]
• ৪৩ তেতাল্লিশ (Tetalish) – 43 [te-taa-lish]
• And so on, following the pattern for each tens digit.

Larger Numbers

Understanding larger numbers is essential for discussing quantities, dates, and financial transactions:

• ১০০০ হাজার (Hajar) – 1,000 [haa-jar]
• ১০,০০০ দশ হাজার (Dosh Hajar) – 10,000 [dosh haa-jar]
• ১,০০,০০০ লক্ষ (Lokkh) – 100,000 [lok-kho]
• ১০,০০,০০০ দশ লক্ষ (Dosh Lokkh) – 1,000,000 (Ten lakhs) [dosh lok-kho]

Practice and Exercises

1. Listening and Pronunciation Practice: Use audio resources or language learning apps to hear the pronunciation of Bengali numbers. Repeat them aloud.
2. Writing and Reading: Practice writing numbers in both numeral and word forms in Bengali script if possible, to improve your familiarity with the language.
3. Practical Application: Try to use numbers in everyday situations, such as discussing prices, dates, or quantities, to reinforce your learning.

Tips for Effective Learning

• Consistent Practice: Regular practice is key to mastering Bengali numbers. Try to incorporate them into your daily routine.
• Flashcards: Create flashcards with numbers on one side and their word forms in Bengali on the other. This can help with memorization.
• Language Exchange: Practice speaking with native speakers or fellow learners. Using numbers in conversation can significantly improve your proficiency.

Conclusion

Mastering numbers in Bengali is a crucial step towards fluency in the language. By starting with the basics, recognizing patterns, and practicing regularly, you’ll enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Bengali. Remember, patience and consistent practice are your best tools for learning this beautiful language.