Learning numbers in Filipino, also known as Tagalog, offers not just a linguistic skill but also a deeper insight into the rich culture and traditions of the Philippines. This lesson will guide you through Filipino numbers, providing pronunciation tips, structure explanations, and practical applications to ensure a comprehensive understanding.

Introduction to Filipino Numerals

Filipino numerals combine native Tagalog words and Spanish-derived numbers, reflecting the country’s history. The language uses a decimal system, similar to English, but with unique aspects, especially in the choice between native and Spanish numbers for different contexts.

Basic Numbers (1-10)

Mastering numbers 1 through 10 is essential as they form the foundation for creating larger numbers. Filipino has two sets for numbers: one native (Tagalog) and one Spanish-derived. Here, both sets are presented with their phonetic pronunciations:

Native Tagalog Numbers

1. Isa [ee-sah] – One
2. Dalawa [da-la-wah] – Two
3. Tatlo [tat-lo] – Three
4. Apat [ah-pat] – Four
5. Lima [lee-mah] – Five
6. Anim [ah-nim] – Six
7. Pito [pee-toh] – Seven
8. Walo [wah-loh] – Eight
9. Siyam [see-yam] – Nine
10. Sampu [sahm-poo] – Ten

Spanish-Derived Numbers

1. Uno [oo-no] – One
2. Dos [dos] – Two
3. Tres [tres] – Three
4. Kwatro [kwah-tro] – Four
5. Singko [sing-ko] – Five
6. Sais [sighs] – Six
7. Siyete [see-yeh-teh] – Seven
8. Ocho [o-cho] – Eight
9. Nueve [nwe-veh] – Nine
10. Dyes [dyes] – Ten

Forming Numbers (11-19)

For numbers 11 through 19, both the Tagalog and Spanish-derived system have their distinctive patterns.

• Labing-isa – [laˈbiŋ ˈisa] / Onse – [ˈon.se] – 11
• Labindalawa – [labɪnˈdalawa] / Dose – [ˈdo.se] – 12 – 12
• Labintatlo – [labɪnˈtatlo] / Trese – [ˈtre.se] – 13
• Labing-apat – [ˈlabiŋ ˈapat] / Katorse – [kaˈtor.se] – 14
• Labinlima – [ˈlabinˈlima] / Kinse – [ˈkin.se] – 15
• Labing-anim – [ˈlabiŋ ˈanim] / Disisais – [diˈsi.sais] – 16
• Labimpito – [labimˈpito] / Disisiyete – [di.siˈsje.te] – 17
• Labing-walo – [ˈlabiŋ ˈwalo] / Disiotso – [diˈsot.so] – 18
• Labinsiyam – [ˈlabinsiˈjam] / Disinuebe – [diˈsnwe.be] – 19

Counting in Tens (20-100)

Learning to count by tens is crucial for forming larger numbers. In everyday communication, Filipinos often use the Spanish-derived system for numbers above ten:

• Dalawampu [da-la-wam-poo] / Veynte [veynt-eh] – 20
• Tatlumpu [tat-lum-poo] / Trenta [tren-tah] – 30
• Apatnapu [ah-pat-nah-poo] / Kwarenta [kwa-ren-tah] – 40
• Limampu [lee-mam-poo] / Singkwenta [sing-kwen-tah] – 50
• Animnapu [ah-nim-nah-poo] / Sesenta [se-sen-tah] – 60
• Pitumpu [pee-tum-poo] / Siyetenta [see-yeh-ten-tah] – 70
• Walumpu [wah-lum-poo] / Otsenta [o-chen-tah] – 80
• Siyamnapu [see-yam-nah-poo] / Noventa [no-ven-tah] – 90
• Isang daan [ee-sang da-an] / Siyento [see-yen-toh] – 100

Compound Numbers (21-99)

For numbers between 21 and 99, the Filipino language often employs the Spanish-derived system, especially in casual conversation:

• Dalawampu’t isa [da-la-wam-poot ee-sah] / Veynte uno [veynt-eh oo-no] – 21
• Tatlumpu’t dalawa [tat-lum-poot da-la-wah] / Trenta y dos [tren-tah ee dos] – 32

Larger Numbers

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

• Isang daan [ee-sang da-an] / Siyento [see-yen-toh] – 100
• Dalawang daan [da-law-ang da-an] / Dos syentos [dos see-yen-tos] – 200
• Isang libo [ee-sang lee-bo] / Mil [meel] – 1,000
• Sampung libo [samp-oong lee-bo] / Dyes mil [dyes meel] – 10,000
• Isang daang libo [ee-sang dang lee-bo] / Siyento mil [see-yen-toh meel] – 100,000
• Isang milyon [ee-sang meel-yon] / Un milyon [oon meel-yon] – 1,000,000

Practice and Exercises

1. Listening and Pronunciation Practice: Use audio resources or language learning apps to familiarize yourself with the pronunciation of Filipino numbers. Practice speaking them aloud.
2. Writing and Reading: Practice writing numbers in both numeral and word forms to enhance your reading and writing skills in Filipino.
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 Filipino 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 Filipino. Remember, patience and consistent practice are your best tools for learning this beautiful and culturally rich language.