Learning numbers in Danish, a North Germanic language spoken primarily in Denmark and parts of Greenland, offers not just a linguistic skill but also a key to understanding Danish culture and society. Danish numbers have unique aspects, especially in the way larger numbers are formed, which can be intriguing for learners. This lesson aims to provide a comprehensive guide to Danish numbers, including pronunciation tips and practical applications.

Introduction to Danish Numerals

Danish numerals follow a decimal system but with a twist in the formation of certain numbers, particularly those above 20. Understanding these numbers is crucial for everyday activities such as shopping, telling time, discussing prices, and more.

Basic Numbers (1-10)

Mastering numbers 1 through 10 is essential as they form the foundation for creating larger numbers. Here are the Danish numbers in this range, along with their phonetic pronunciations:

1. En/et [en/et] – One
2. To [to] – Two
3. Tre [tre] – Three
4. Fire [fee-re] – Four
5. Fem [fem] – Five
6. Seks [seks] – Six
7. Syv [sü] – Seven
8. Otte [o-te] – Eight
9. Ni [ni] – Nine
10. Ti [ti] – Ten

Forming Numbers (11-19)

Numbers from 11 to 19 mostly end in “-ten,” making them relatively straightforward:

• Elleve – [ˈeləvə] – 11
• Tolv – [ˈtʌlv] – 12
• Tretten – [ˈtʁɛtən] – 13
• Fjorten – [ˈfjoɐ̯ˀtn] – 14
• Femten – [ˈfɛmtn̩] – 15
• Seksten – [ˈsɛkstn̩] – 16
• Sytten – [ˈsytn̩] – 17
• Atten – [ˈatn̩] – 18
• Nitten – [ˈnitn̩] – 19

Counting in Tens (20-100)

The structure of numbers from 20 onwards can seem unusual to learners due to the Danish “base 20” system used for certain numbers:

• Tyve [ty-ve] – 20
• Tredive [tre-di-ve] – 30
• Fyrre [für-re] – 40 (Note: Derived from “fire tyve” or “four twenties”)
• Halvtreds [halv-tres] – 50 (Short for “halvtredsindstyve” meaning “half third times twenty” or 2.5 times 20)
• Tres [tres] – 60 (Short for “tresindstyve” meaning “three times twenty”)
• Halvfjerds [hal-feers] – 70 (Short for “halvfjerdsindstyve”)
• Firs [feers] – 80 (Short for “firsindstyve”)
• Halvfems [hal-fems] – 90 (Short for “halvfemsindstyve”)
• Hundrede [hun-dre-de] – 100

Compound Numbers (21-99)

For numbers between 21 and 99, Danish places the unit before the ten, which is a unique aspect compared to many other languages:

• Enogtyve [e-no-ty-ve] – 21 (Literally “one and twenty”)
• Toogtredive [to-o-tre-di-ve] – 32 (Literally “two and thirty”)
• Treogfyrre [tre-o-für-re] – 43 (Literally “three and forty”)

Larger Numbers

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

• Et hundrede [et hun-dre-de] – 100
• To hundrede [to hun-dre-de] – 200
• Et tusind [et tu-sind] – 1,000
• Ti tusind [ti tu-sind] – 10,000
• Et hundrede tusind [et hun-dre-de tu-sind] – 100,000
• En million [en mi-ly-on] – 1,000,000

Practice and Exercises

1. Listening and Pronunciation Practice: Use audio resources or language learning apps to listen to the pronunciation of Danish numbers. Repeat them aloud to improve your accent.
2. Writing and Reading: Practice writing numbers in both numeral and word forms to enhance your reading and writing skills in Danish.
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 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 Danish 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 Danish. Remember, patience and consistent practice are your best tools for learning this intriguing language with its unique numerical system.