Learning numbers in Bosnian, a South Slavic language spoken primarily in Bosnia and Herzegovina, provides not only a basis for daily communication but also an insight into the culture and traditions of the region. This lesson aims to offer a comprehensive guide to understanding, pronouncing, and using Bosnian numbers from 1 to 1,000,000.

Introduction to Bosnian Numerals

Bosnian numerals, similar to those in Croatian and Serbian due to the shared linguistic roots, use a decimal system. Mastery of these numbers will aid in various everyday contexts such as shopping, telling time, discussing prices, and more.

Basic Numbers (1-10)

The foundation of learning numbers in any language starts with 1 through 10. Here are the Bosnian numbers in this range, along with their phonetic pronunciations:

1. Jedan [YE-dan] – One
2. Dva [dva] – Two
3. Tri [tree] – Three
4. Četiri [CHET-ee-ree] – Four
5. Pet [pet] – Five
6. Šest [shesht] – Six
7. Sedam [SEH-dam] – Seven
8. Osm [osm] – Eight
9. Devet [DEH-vet] – Nine
10. Deset [DEH-set] – Ten

Forming Numbers (11-19)

Numbers from 11 through 19 are formed by combining “naest” with the unit number:

• Jedanaest – [jɛdanaɛst] – 11
• Dvanaest – [dvanaɛst] – 12
• Trinaest – [trinaɛst] – 13
• Četrnaest – [ʧɛtrnaɛst] – 14
• Petnaest – [pɛtnaɛst] – 15
• Šesnaest – [ʃɛsnaɛst] – 16
• Sedamnaest – [sɛdamnaɛst] – 17
• Osamnaest – [osamnaɛst] – 18
• Devetnaest – [dɛvɛtnaɛst] – 19

Counting in Tens (20-100)

Learning to count by tens up to one hundred is essential for forming larger numbers:

• Dvadeset [DVAH-deh-set] – 20
• Trideset [TREE-deh-set] – 30
• Četrdeset [CHET-rdeh-set] – 40
• Pedeset [PEH-deh-set] – 50
• Šezdeset [SHEZ-deh-set] – 60
• Sedamdeset [SEH-dam-deh-set] – 70
• Osamdeset [O-sam-deh-set] – 80
• Devedeset [DEH-veh-deh-set] – 90
• Sto [sto] – 100

Compound Numbers (21-99)

For numbers between 21 and 99, compound numbers are formed by stating the tens and then the units, with “i” (and) for 21-29:

• Dvadeset i jedan [DVAH-deh-set EE YE-dan] – 21
• For numbers 31 and beyond, the “i” is typically omitted:
• Trideset tri [TREE-deh-set TREE] – 33

Larger Numbers

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

• Dvijestotine [dvee-YEH-sto-tee-neh] – 200
• Tisuća [TEE-soo-cha] – 1,000
• Deset tisuća [DEH-set TEE-soo-cha] – 10,000
• Stotinu tisuća [STO-tee-noo TEE-soo-cha] – 100,000
• Milijun [MEE-lee-yoon] – 1,000,000

Practice and Exercises

1. Listening and Pronunciation Practice: Utilize online resources, language learning apps, or Bosnian music and radio to familiarize yourself with the pronunciation of numbers. Practice speaking them out loud.
2. Writing and Reading: Write out numbers in both numeral and word forms to improve your reading and writing skills in Bosnian.
3. Practical Application: Try to use numbers in everyday situations, such as making purchases, discussing time, or talking about distances and quantities.

Tips for Effective Learning

• Consistent Practice: Regular practice with numbers will help solidify your understanding and improve recall.
• Flashcards: Use flashcards with numbers on one side and their word forms on the other to test your memory.
• Language Exchange: Practice speaking with native speakers or fellow learners. Using numbers in conversation will help you become more comfortable with their pronunciation and usage.

Conclusion

Mastering numbers in Bosnian is a crucial step towards achieving fluency in the language. By starting with the basics, gradually moving to more complex numbers, and consistently practicing, you’ll enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Bosnian. Remember, patience and consistent practice are your best tools for learning this beautiful language.