Mastering Bengali Numbers: The #1 Beginner’s Guide

Numbers in different colors - Bengali numbers

Planning a trip to Kolkata soon? Fantastic! You’re going to love it. But before you dive into the culture, let’s get you prepped with Bengali numbers. Trust me, being able to count will impress the locals and make your experience even better.

We know how important numbers are. And when we are learning a new language, being able to read and use them will be helpful in many situations. Bengali numbers, like ১ – এক (ek), which is the number “one,” will come in handy when you go shopping for souvenirs at a local store, helping you keep track of how many items you’re buying, among other things. That’s why I have structured this blog as simply as possible to help you understand them. So, if you’re interested in learning about Bengali numbers and their rules and patterns, keep on reading.

Understanding Numbers In Bengali

At the basic level, Bengali numbers are not so complicated. For example, one is called ek (এক) – ১, two is dui (দুই) – ২, and three is tin (তিন) – ৩. As you move higher, a number like ten becomes dash (দশ) – ১০. Twenty is bish (বিশ) – ২০ and hundred is eksho (একশো) – ১০০. For instance, knowing numerals from 1 to 100 is important when you’re shopping, getting lost and asking for directions, or dealing with money.

Bengali Numbers: Patterns And Rules

Bengali numbers follow a unique pattern, with each digit having a distinct form. The script is written from left to right, unlike some other Indian scripts. The numbers 1 to 9 are fundamental. Once you reach 10, the numbers combine. For instance, 11 is “ekadash” (10+1) is called egaro (এগারো), and 12 is “baro” (10+2) is called baro (বারো).

Multiples of ten, such as 30 trish (ত্রিশ), 40 chollish (চল্লিশ), and 50 ponchash (পঞ্চাশ), all follow a similar pattern. Larger numbers, like 100 eksho (একশো), stick to the same rule, making the system logical.

Here are the numbers in scripts from 1 to 10:

EnglishBengaliPronunciationSound
1 – one ১ – একek
2 – two ২ – দুইdui
3 – three ৩ – তিনtin
4 – four ৪ – চাchar
5 – five ৫ – পাঁচpanch
6 – six ৬ – ছয়chhoy
7 – seven ৭ – সাতshaat
8 – eight ৮ – আটaat
9 – nine ৯ – নয়noy
10 – ten ১০ – দশdosh

Differences Between Bengali And English Numbers

English numbers are used all over the world, but Bengali numbers are only used in regions where the language is spoken, such as West Bengal and Bangladesh.

Here are some key differences:

Appearance

Bengali numbers look different, and it might take a little time for people used to English numbers to understand them.

Pronunciation

The Bengali numerals sound quite different from English numbers. For example, the number 1 is called ‘ek’ (১) in Bengali, while in English, it’s ‘one.’

Writing System

The Bengali script is written from left to right, just like English. Bengali numerals are used in cultural writings, signs, and literature, so they are an important part of learning the language.

Decimal System

While the Bengali numeral system is based on the decimal system, it uses unique terminology for certain numbers. For example, 20 is referred to as ‘Kuri’ (কুড়ি), which is not a direct translation of twenty. This can make learning numbers more complex for beginners.

Man learning with laptop, notebook, and pen

Step-By-Step Guide To Learn Bengali Numbers

1. Get To Know The Symbols

First, it will be helpful to become familiar with the system. The numbers from 1 to 10 are different from the Arabic numerals; each has its own symbol. Try to recognize these symbols until they become second nature. For example, try to read out the the figures on the price tags or phone numbers. You can also try to write them down while doing simple arithmetic exercises.

2. Understand The Pronunciation

For every symbol, you have to know how it is pronounced in the Bengali language. Be careful with the sounds because some of them may be significantly different from English phonetics. Try counting things you see during the day—fruits, books, etc. This will help you with pronunciation and listening comprehension, making the numbers sound more natural when used in conversations.

3. Write The Numbers

Practice how to write numbers on paper. Begin with the basic ones. Writing them repeatedly will help you recognize them and retain them in your memory.

4. Break Down Numbers Into Pairs

Try counting up to 9, and then practice how to write two-digit figures in Bengali. For example, numbers like 11 or 12 could be written as 10 + 1 (dosh + ek), 10 + 2 (dosh + dui), etc. This method will help you understand patterns in the way numerals are formed.

5. Use Visual Resources

Using charts and posters with the numbers can be very useful. Put a number chart in an area where you can look at it often, for instance, on a desk or a wall. This passive exposure will help your brain to reinforce the recognition of the numerals.

6. Write From Memory

After you have spent some time imitating numbers, try to write them without looking at them. First, write 1 to 10 in a numerical sequence, then attempt to write them in a random sequence. Such memory exercises should be done regularly to facilitate learning.

7. Add Numbers With Common Sayings

Use numbers in ordinary expressions or everyday tasks. For instance, practice saying the time, counting money, and counting objects in Bengali. This helps you make useful connections in your mind, which strengthens your understanding of the count and how to use it.

8. Consistency Is Key

Spend some time daily reading and writing the numbers. Just 10–15 minutes a day will pay off in the long term and help to create long-lasting retention and fluency.

'Time to learn' written inside a clock, and a hand holding a marker

How Do You Say Numbers In Bengali?

In Bengali, the word for ‘number’ is Shongkha (সংখ্যা), pronounced as shong-kha.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is The Number 1 to 10 In Bengali?

The numerals in Bengali are easy to memorize with practice. Here they are:

  • 1 – ek (এক)
  • 2 – dui (দুই)
  • 3 – tin (তিন)
  • 4 – char (চার)
  • 5 – panch (পাঁচ)
  • 6 – chhoy (ছয়)
  • 7 – shaat (সাত)
  • 8 – aat (আট)
  • 9 – noy (নয়)
  • 10 – dosh (দশ)

2. What Is The Number 20 In Bengali?

The number 20 is called Kuri (কুড়ি). In Bengali-speaking communities, it is employed in all aspects of daily life, such as counting, pricing, and measuring.

3. How Do You Say 1-2-3 In Bangladesh?

Bengali is the official language, and numerals are spoken in the same way as in West Bengal, India. Here’s how you say Bengali Numbers 1, 2, and 3 in Bangladesh:

  • 1 – ek (এক)
  • 2 – dui (দুই)
  • 3 – tin (তিন)

Wrapping Up

Bengali numbers are the first thing that any beginner should learn when starting the language. Learning the individual numerals and how they are different from English numbers, as well as how to read and write the basic numbers 1-10 as ek—daśa, will help you out in your day-to-day interactions. Using a learning app like the Ling app can help you master Bengali numbers and Bengali grammar and improve your pronunciation.

Learning these basics will give you a strong foundation for building your skills in the language. So, take the time to master the Bengali numbers, and you’ll be on your way to becoming more comfortable with the language.

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