Learn Afrikaans: Numbers 1–20

This lesson introduces the foundation of counting in Afrikaans by covering the numbers from Nul ([nœl]) to Twintig ([ˈtvəntəx]). Mastering these early numerals is essential for everyday interactions, whether you are checking the time, asking for prices, or sharing your phone number. English speakers will notice immediate similarities because both languages share Germanic origins, making many of these terms easy to recognize and memorize.

When learning the first ten digits, pay close attention to the pronunciation of Vier ([fiːr]) and Vyf ([vəif]), where the initial letter sounds like an English "f." Once you reach the teenage numbers, a clear and helpful pattern emerges. Just as English uses the suffix "-teen," Afrikaans adds "-tien" to the base number. For example, Ten is Tien ([tin]), and Fourteen is Veertien ([ˈfiːrtin]). You will notice slight spelling modifications in words like Dertien ([ˈdærtin]) for thirteen, where the base Drie changes slightly to accommodate the suffix.

Moving past twelve, or Twaalf ([tvɑːlf]), the consistency of the "-tien" ending helps you quickly build your vocabulary. By the time you reach Twenty, which is Twintig ([ˈtvəntəx]), you will have established a strong rhythmic sense of how Afrikaans numbers are structured. This set provides the necessary tools to navigate basic numerical data and prepares you for more complex counting as you progress in your language studies.