Numbers In Somali: Your #1 Practical Guide

Want to learn to count in Somali? Perhaps you want to discuss prices, or ask someone how old they are. The good news is that the numbers in Somali are pretty straightforward, so they shouldn’t give you much trouble, even if you’re just starting to learn the language.

In this guide, we’ll go over Somali numbers starting from 1 to 10, then 10-100, and finally large and ordinal numbers. We’ll also give you a few tips to make things easier and answer some common questions.

Basic Numbers In Somali: From 0 To 10

Let’s start simple. The numbers in Somali from 0 to 10 are these.

As you can see, Somali uses Arabic numerals (0-9) just like English, which makes things easier.

But there’s something you should keep in mind: In Somali, the number 1 can change according to context. It’s kow for counting and doing math, but hal if you use it before a noun, so “one person” is hal qof.

Tens In Somali: 20, 30, 40, And More

In Somali, multiples of 10 are standalone words, and some of them aren’t too similar to the units, particularly 5 – shan, 50 – konton. That means you’ll have no choice but to memorize them.

Tens Plus Units In Somali Numbers

When it comes to tens plus units in the Somali language, you have to use the word “and”, which is iyo.

The pattern is:

• units + “and” (iyo) + tens
  
  

So the number 12, laba iyo toban, is literally “two and ten”. It’s quite logical!

Here are numbers from 10 to 19 in Somali.

When it comes to 20-something, 30-something, etc., it’s all the same. You follow the same pattern we just saw.

• units + “and” (iyo) + tens
  
  

So, for example, 21 is “one and twenty” – kow iyo labaatan. Easy, right?

Let’s see a few random numbers so you get the idea.

Large Numbers In The Somali Language

Now, let’s see some large numbers in Somali. The logic is mostly the same, but you’ll notice there’s no “and” – iyo between hundreds/thousands and smaller units.

Ordinal Numbers In Somali

Ordinal numbers are those that show the position or order in a sequence, such as first, second, third, etc.

In the Somali language, to turn a number into its ordinal form, you just have to add -aad. So “first” is kowaad, “second” is labaad, and so on.

How Do You Say ‘Numbers’ In Somali?

There are three words to say ‘numbers’ in Somali: raqam, lambar, and tiro. Raqam is used when referring to numbers when writing or in formal contexts. Lambar is for numbered items, such as IDs, phones, etc. Tiro is the term for abstract numbers when counting or doing math.

Examples:

• Raqam: “Write the numeral 7” – Qor raqamka toddoba.
• Lambar: “Phone numbers” – Lambarada taleefanka.
• Tiro: “Let’s learn the numbers.” – Aan baranno tirooyinka.

Tips For Using Somali Numbers

Now that you know the numbers in Somali, here are a few tips to make sure you’re using them correctly:

1. Remember that the number 1 has different forms. Use kow for counting but hal before nouns.
   
   
2. There’s actually a third way to say 1 in Somali, which we didn’t mention above to avoid confusion. Mid is used when the number stands alone, like if someone asks you how many moons the Earth has and you answer “one.”
   
   
3. While Somali is not a tonal language, it uses pitch accent, so tone affects meaning in some ways. Therefore, pay special attention to your pronunciation and listen to native speakers as much as you can.
   
   
4. Remember to use “and” – iyo for compound numbers.
   
   
5. Keep in mind that when you use a number with a noun in Somali, you must attach an article to it, based on definiteness and gender. For example, in English we say “two books,” but in Somali it’s “two [the] books” – laba buugga, with an article added as a suffix to the noun. This can be a bit complex, so it’s worth studying in more depth.
   
   
6. Pay attention to the tens that have irregular forms, such as 5 – shan vs. 50 – konton.
   
   
7. Finally, if you’re learning numbers for travel, make sure to master some basic phrases as well, such as how to say good morning in Somali.

Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers In Somali

1, 2, 3, Let’s Go!

Now that you know the numbers in Somali, you’re all set to ask someone their age, ask prices, count, and anything else you need.

You know that numbers from one to ten are kow/hal, laba, saddex, afar, shan, lix, toddoba, sideed, sagaal, and toban. You know tens and how to combine them with units, and we even went over large and ordinal numbers.

Make sure to go over the tips we gave you. Somali numbers aren’t particularly difficult, but you have to remember a couple of things to use them correctly.

Learn Somali Numbers And More With Ling!

If you want to go beyond Somali numbers and basic phrases, the Ling app can give you a hand! Its fun, bite-sized lessons make it an excellent tool to learn Somali.

You’ll find interactive dialogs, flashcards, audio by native speakers, and much more. Plus, its points, achievements, and friendly reminders make sure you stay motivated while learning.

Moreover, you can use the 7-day free trial to test the app and see how it fits your learning style.

So don’t wait any longer. Download the Ling app and start your Somali learning journey today!