Quatre-vingts in 30 Seconds
- The French number for eighty is 'quatre-vingts'.
- It literally means 'four twenties'.
- Used for quantities, ages, prices, and more.
- Pronunciation rules apply, especially regarding the 's'.
The French word "quatre-vingts" literally translates to "four twenties" in English. This is the standard way to say the number eighty in French. It's a numeral, used for counting and indicating quantities. You'll encounter it in everyday situations, from telling time to discussing prices, ages, and quantities of almost anything. Unlike English, which uses a single word for eighty, French uses a compound structure. This is a characteristic feature of the French number system for certain numbers. For instance, seventy is "soixante-dix" (sixty-ten), and ninety is "quatre-vingt-dix" (four-twenty-ten). Understanding "quatre-vingts" is fundamental for grasping these other numbers as well. It's a building block for understanding larger numerical concepts in French. The pronunciation can be a bit tricky for English speakers, with the final 's' in 'vingts' often being silent unless the number is followed by another number, such as in 'quatre-vingts-deux' (eighty-two). This rule of liaison, where a normally silent consonant is pronounced when followed by a vowel sound, is crucial in French pronunciation. When you're shopping, you might see a price like 80 euros, which would be "quatre-vingts euros." If you're discussing someone's age and they are eighty years old, you would say "Il/Elle a quatre-vingts ans." This number is a significant milestone and is frequently used in contexts related to age. In educational settings, when discussing the number of students in a class or the total number of items, "quatre-vingts" will appear. For example, a teacher might say, "Il y a quatre-vingts élèves dans l'école" (There are eighty students in the school). The historical origin of this way of counting is believed to come from the Germanic system of counting in twenties, which was used in some parts of Europe. This linguistic quirk is one of the fascinating aspects of learning French. It's not just about memorizing a word; it's about understanding a system. When you first hear "quatre-vingts," it might sound unusual, but with practice, it becomes natural. Think of it as a puzzle piece that helps unlock other parts of the French numerical language. The more you hear and use it, the more familiar and less daunting it will become. It's a number that represents a substantial quantity, often used when discussing larger groups or totals. It's important to remember that the 's' at the end of 'vingts' is generally silent when 'quatre-vingts' stands alone or is followed by a consonant. However, if it's followed by a word starting with a vowel or a silent 'h', the 's' is pronounced, and the liaison occurs. This is a key point for accurate pronunciation and understanding. For example, "quatre-vingts ans" (eighty years) would involve the liaison. So, in essence, "quatre-vingts" is simply the number eighty, but its structure and pronunciation rules make it a distinctive feature of the French language.
- Literal Translation
- Four twenties
- Usage Category
- Numeral, Counting, Quantity
- Key Feature
- Compound number structure, potential for liaison
The price is quatre-vingts euros.
He is quatre-vingts years old.
Using "quatre-vingts" in sentences is straightforward once you understand its meaning. It functions as a cardinal number, indicating a quantity. You will typically place it before the noun it quantifies or in contexts where a number stands alone, such as answering the question "How many?" or stating a quantity. For example, if you are talking about a group of eighty people, you would say "Il y a quatre-vingts personnes dans la salle" (There are eighty people in the room). When discussing age, it follows the structure "avoir X ans," so for eighty years, it's "avoir quatre-vingts ans." Imagine a scenario at a market where you are buying eighty apples. You would tell the vendor, "Je voudrais quatre-vingts pommes, s'il vous plaît" (I would like eighty apples, please). In educational contexts, numbers are frequently used. A teacher might say, "Le livre contient quatre-vingts pages" (The book contains eighty pages). When discussing historical events or statistics, "quatre-vingts" can appear. For instance, "Environ quatre-vingts pour cent des participants ont réussi" (Approximately eighty percent of the participants succeeded). It's important to note the grammatical agreement. As a cardinal number, "quatre-vingts" generally does not change. However, when it is part of a larger number, like "quatre-vingt-un" (eighty-one), the 's' on "vingts" is dropped. This is a crucial rule for writing and pronunciation. The number "quatre-vingts" is also used when counting items in bulk or when referring to large quantities. For instance, if a factory produces eighty units per day, the manager might state, "Nous produisons quatre-vingts unités par jour." In conversations about finances, you might hear, "Le loyer est de quatre-vingts euros par mois" (The rent is eighty euros per month). When you are learning to count in French, mastering "quatre-vingts" is a significant step. It's a number that appears frequently in everyday life. Consider a situation where you are planning an event and need to know the capacity of a venue. The venue manager might inform you, "La capacité maximale est de quatre-vingts personnes" (The maximum capacity is eighty people). The structure "quatre-vingts" is consistent. You don't say "quatre-vingt-s" when it's just eighty. The 's' is added to "vingts" to indicate the full multiple of twenty, and it remains there unless the number is followed by another digit (e.g., quatre-vingt-un). This is a common point of confusion, so it's worth reiterating. The number eighty is a substantial quantity, and its French representation reflects a historical counting method. When you're practicing your French, try to incorporate "quatre-vingts" into various sentences. For example, think about how many days are in eighty weeks, or how many minutes are in eighty hours. This active practice will help solidify your understanding and usage. The beauty of the French number system, while sometimes complex, is its logic once you understand the patterns. "Quatre-vingts" is a prime example of this.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- Quatre-vingts + Noun / Subject + Verb + Quatre-vingts ans
- Key Grammatical Point
- The 's' on 'vingts' is generally present when 'quatre-vingts' stands alone or is followed by a consonant, but dropped when followed by another digit.
We bought quatre-vingts chairs for the event.
The report has quatre-vingts pages.
You will hear "quatre-vingts" in a multitude of real-life situations in French-speaking countries. Imagine walking into a boulangerie and asking for "quatre-vingts croissants" for a party, or overhearing someone discuss the price of a car that costs "quatre-vingts mille euros" (eighty thousand euros). In the news, you might hear reports about population statistics, such as "Plus de quatre-vingts pour cent de la population est vaccinée" (More than eighty percent of the population is vaccinated). When people discuss their grandparents' ages, it's common to hear "Ma grand-mère a quatre-vingts ans" (My grandmother is eighty years old). In educational settings, teachers use numbers constantly. A history teacher might mention "La Première Guerre mondiale a eu lieu il y a plus de cent quatre-vingts ans" (World War I took place more than one hundred and eighty years ago – though here it would be 'cent quatre-vingts'). If you're in a French classroom, the teacher might say, "Nous avons quatre-vingts exercices à faire" (We have eighty exercises to do). In administrative contexts, like filling out forms, you'll encounter numbers everywhere. A form might ask for your age, and if you are eighty, you would select or write "quatre-vingts." When discussing large projects or investments, figures involving "quatre-vingts" are common. For instance, "Le budget alloué est de quatre-vingts millions d'euros" (The allocated budget is eighty million euros). Even in casual conversations, numbers come up. Someone might say, "J'ai attendu quatre-vingts minutes dans le bus" (I waited eighty minutes on the bus). When you visit a museum, you might see information stating "Ce tableau date d'il y a quatre-vingts ans" (This painting dates from eighty years ago). The French public transport system relies heavily on numbers. Bus routes, train schedules, and ticket prices often involve large figures. You might hear, "Le bus numéro quatre-vingts va dans cette direction" (Bus number eighty goes in this direction). In the context of sports, scores or statistics might reach "quatre-vingts." For example, "L'équipe a marqué quatre-vingts points" (The team scored eighty points). When discussing distances, though kilometers are more common, in specific contexts, you might encounter "quatre-vingts kilomètres." Even in everyday chores, numbers are present. "Il faut quatre-vingts litres d'eau pour remplir la piscine" (It takes eighty liters of water to fill the pool). The French healthcare system also uses numbers extensively. For example, "Le taux de réussite est de quatre-vingts pour cent" (The success rate is eighty percent). In the context of technology, you might see specifications like "Une connexion de quatre-vingts mégabits par seconde" (An eighty megabit per second connection). When ordering food in a restaurant, especially for large groups, you might need to specify quantities like "quatre-vingts couverts" (eighty place settings). The French education system, from primary schools to universities, uses numbers for class sizes, student numbers, and exam scores. You might hear, "Il y a quatre-vingts étudiants dans ce cours magistral" (There are eighty students in this lecture). In the realm of statistics and demographics, "quatre-vingts" is frequently used to describe proportions of populations, age groups, or economic indicators. For example, "Quatre-vingts pour cent des Français possèdent un smartphone" (Eighty percent of French people own a smartphone). Even in casual games or activities, numbers are part of the dialogue. Someone might say, "J'ai quatre-vingts points" (I have eighty points). The mention of "quatre-vingts" is ubiquitous in any scenario where quantities, ages, prices, or measurements are being discussed in French. It’s a fundamental number you will encounter repeatedly.
- Common Scenarios
- Shopping, Age discussions, Statistics, Education, Travel, Finance, Sports
- Audio Context
- Spoken by native speakers in everyday conversations, media, and formal announcements.
The bus stop is at number quatre-vingts.
My grandmother celebrated her quatre-vingts birthday.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with "quatre-vingts" is related to its pronunciation, specifically the 's' at the end of "vingts." Many learners incorrectly pronounce this 's' as if it were a standalone word, or they omit it entirely when it should be pronounced due to liaison. Remember, the 's' is generally silent when "quatre-vingts" is followed by a consonant or stands alone. However, it becomes pronounced and links to the next word if that word begins with a vowel or a silent 'h'. For example, "quatre-vingts" (eighty) is pronounced without the 's' sound, but "quatre-vingts ans" (eighty years) is pronounced with the 's' linking to 'ans'. Another common error is the confusion with the singular "quatre-vingt." When "quatre-vingts" is used as part of a larger number like "quatre-vingt-un" (eighty-one) or "quatre-vingt-dix" (ninety), the 's' on "vingts" is dropped. Learners sometimes mistakenly add the 's' in these compound numbers. For instance, saying "quatre-vingts-un" instead of "quatre-vingt-un." This is a crucial distinction. Think of "vingts" as a base unit that takes an 's' when it's a multiple of twenty, but this 's' is removed when you add to it. A less common but still possible mistake is misinterpreting the "four twenties" structure. Some learners might try to translate it too literally or get confused by the compound nature, expecting a single word like in English. It's essential to accept "quatre-vingts" as the established term for eighty. The sheer length of the word can also be a hurdle; learners might stumble over the pronunciation or spelling. Practicing saying it aloud repeatedly and writing it down is key. Finally, learners might not realize the historical context and simply try to memorize it as an arbitrary word, which can make it harder to retain. Understanding that it's derived from "four twenties" can help anchor the word in memory. When using it in sentences, ensure it's placed correctly. While it's a number, it functions like any other cardinal number, preceding the noun it modifies. Forgetting this basic sentence structure can lead to errors, though it's less about the word "quatre-vingts" itself and more about general numeral placement. The most critical areas to focus on are the liaison rules and the dropping of the 's' in compound numbers. Consistent practice and exposure to native speech will help overcome these common pitfalls.
- Mistake 1: Pronunciation of 's'
- Incorrectly pronouncing or omitting the 's' in "vingts" due to liaison rules.
- Mistake 2: 's' in compound numbers
- Incorrectly keeping the 's' in "vingts" when forming numbers like "quatre-vingt-un".
- Mistake 3: Literal Translation
- Getting confused by the "four twenties" structure and not treating it as a single numeral.
Incorrect: "He is quatre-vingt-s years old." Correct: "He is quatre-vingts years old." (if followed by a consonant or alone)
Incorrect: "I have quatre-vingts-deux books." Correct: "I have quatre-vingt-deux books."
While "quatre-vingts" is the standard and most common way to express eighty in French, understanding its context helps in identifying potential alternatives or related numerical terms. The most direct alternative, if you were to break down the meaning, would be "huit dizaines" (eight tens). However, this is not a natural or commonly used way to say eighty in everyday French. It's more of a descriptive breakdown of the number. For instance, you wouldn't typically hear someone say, "J'ai huit dizaines d'euros" (I have eight tens of euros) when they mean eighty euros. Instead, they would say "J'ai quatre-vingts euros." Another related concept is "quatre-vingt" (without the 's'). This form is used when "quatre-vingts" is followed by another number, forming a compound number. So, "quatre-vingt-un" (eighty-one), "quatre-vingt-deux" (eighty-two), and so on, all use "quatre-vingt" (singular) before the next digit. This distinction is crucial. The 's' on "vingts" signifies the completion of the multiple of twenty. When you are comparing "quatre-vingts" to other numbers, you'll see patterns emerge. For example, seventy is "soixante-dix" (sixty-ten), and ninety is "quatre-vingt-dix" (four-twenty-ten). These compound structures highlight the unique nature of French numeration. In spoken French, you might sometimes hear colloquial or regional variations, but "quatre-vingts" is universally understood and used. For learners, it's best to stick to the standard form. When discussing quantities, the word "beaucoup" (a lot) can be used as a less precise alternative if the exact number eighty isn't critical. For example, "Il y avait beaucoup de monde" (There were a lot of people) could be used instead of "Il y avait quatre-vingts personnes" if the exact count isn't important. However, when precision is needed, "quatre-vingts" is the only correct term. In terms of numbers that are close, you have "soixante-dix-neuf" (seventy-nine) and "quatre-vingt-un" (eighty-one). Understanding the transition from seventy-nine to eighty is important. You simply add one to "quatre-vingts." The number "cent" (one hundred) is the next major milestone after eighty. In summary, while "huit dizaines" is a conceptual relative, and "quatre-vingt" is a grammatical variant, "quatre-vingts" remains the definitive and singular term for the number eighty in French. The other numerical terms like "soixante-dix" and "quatre-vingt-dix" are similar in that they also represent unique French numerical constructions, making "quatre-vingts" part of a larger system of numerical peculiarity.
- Direct Equivalent
- Quatre-vingts (Eighty)
- Conceptual Breakdown
- Huit dizaines (Eight tens) - Not commonly used as a numeral for eighty.
- Grammatical Variant
- Quatre-vingt (used in compound numbers like quatre-vingt-un)
- Imprecise Alternative
- Beaucoup (A lot) - Used when exact quantity is not important.
Comparison: "Il a quatre-vingts euros." vs "Il a huit dizaines d'euros." (The first is correct and natural, the second is not.)
Comparison: "Il y a quatre-vingt-un élèves." (Correct) vs "Il y a quatre-vingts-un élèves." (Incorrect)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The vigesimal system, counting in twenties, was once more widespread. In French, you can still see its influence in expressions like "vingt sous" (twenty sous, an old coin) and in the numbers themselves. This system might have originated from the practice of using fingers and toes for counting. The survival of this system in French numbers is a unique linguistic feature.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the final 's' in 'vingts' when it should be silent.
- Omitting the nasal sound in 'vingts'.
- Incorrectly pronouncing 'quatre' with a long 'a' sound.
- Adding an 's' sound when forming compound numbers like 'quatre-vingt-un'.
- Failure to perform liaison when appropriate (e.g., before a vowel sound).
Difficulty Rating
Recognizing 'quatre-vingts' in text is generally straightforward once the numeral is learned. The challenge lies more in understanding its compound structure and the rules of liaison when reading aloud or encountering it in phonetic transcriptions.
Writing 'quatre-vingts' correctly requires attention to the 's' and its presence or absence in compound numbers. The rule for dropping the 's' in numbers from 81 to 89 is a common pitfall.
Pronunciation, especially the nasal vowel and the silent 's' versus liaison, can be challenging for learners. Mastering the correct sounds and linking them appropriately takes practice.
Identifying 'quatre-vingts' when spoken is relatively easy once the sound is familiar, especially as it's a common number. The main difficulty might arise from fast speech or heavy accents.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Liaison
The 's' in 'vingts' is pronounced when followed by a word starting with a vowel or silent 'h', e.g., "quatre-vingts ans" (eighty years).
Cardinal Numbers
"Quatre-vingts" is a cardinal number used for counting and stating exact quantities.
Compound Numbers
When forming numbers from 81 to 89, the 's' on "vingts" is dropped, e.g., "quatre-vingt-un" (eighty-one).
Agreement of Numbers
Cardinal numbers like "quatre-vingts" do not typically agree in gender or number with the noun they modify, except in specific cases with multiplicatives.
Placement of Numbers
Cardinal numbers usually precede the noun they quantify, e.g., "quatre-vingts livres."
Examples by Level
Il y a quatre-vingts livres.
There are eighty books.
'Quatre-vingts' is used to state a quantity.
J'ai quatre-vingts euros.
I have eighty euros.
'Quatre-vingts' is used to state an amount of money.
C'est quatre-vingts.
It's eighty.
Used as a standalone number.
Ma sœur a quatre-vingts ans.
My sister is eighty years old.
'Quatre-vingts' is used with 'ans' for age.
Il y a quatre-vingts chaises.
There are eighty chairs.
Stating a quantity of objects.
Le prix est quatre-vingts.
The price is eighty.
Indicating a price.
Quatre-vingts, c'est beaucoup.
Eighty is a lot.
Describing a quantity as large.
J'ai vu quatre-vingts oiseaux.
I saw eighty birds.
Counting animals.
La réunion a duré quatre-vingts minutes.
The meeting lasted eighty minutes.
Specifying a duration of time.
Il y avait quatre-vingts personnes à la fête.
There were eighty people at the party.
Indicating the number of attendees.
Le bus numéro quatre-vingts arrive.
Bus number eighty is arriving.
Identifying a bus by its number.
Elle a économisé quatre-vingts euros pour son voyage.
She saved eighty euros for her trip.
Quantifying savings.
Le nouveau bâtiment comptera quatre-vingts appartements.
The new building will have eighty apartments.
Stating the number of units in a building.
J'ai reçu quatre-vingts invitations.
I received eighty invitations.
Counting items received.
Le train partira à quatre-vingts heures.
The train will depart at eighty hours (24-hour format).
Used in a hypothetical 24-hour format or as a large number.
Le cours est divisé en quatre-vingts leçons.
The course is divided into eighty lessons.
Quantifying parts of a whole.
Environ quatre-vingts pour cent des élèves ont réussi l'examen.
About eighty percent of the students passed the exam.
Expressing a percentage. Note the 's' in 'vingts' is often pronounced here due to liaison with 'pour cent'.
Le vieillissement de la population est un sujet qui concerne plus de quatre-vingts pays.
Population aging is a topic that concerns more than eighty countries.
Discussing global statistics.
Le roman compte quatre-vingts chapitres, chacun explorant un aspect différent de la vie.
The novel has eighty chapters, each exploring a different aspect of life.
Describing the structure of a literary work.
Les historiens estiment que près de quatre-vingts pour cent des manuscrits ont été perdus.
Historians estimate that nearly eighty percent of the manuscripts were lost.
Using percentages in historical estimations.
La nouvelle usine produira quatre-vingts tonnes de plastique recyclé par mois.
The new factory will produce eighty tons of recycled plastic per month.
Quantifying industrial production.
Le concert a attiré une foule estimée à quatre-vingts mille personnes.
The concert attracted a crowd estimated at eighty thousand people.
Using "quatre-vingts" as part of a larger number (eighty thousand).
Au début du projet, nous avions quatre-vingts employés ; maintenant, nous en avons cent vingt.
At the beginning of the project, we had eighty employees; now we have one hundred and twenty.
Comparing quantities over time.
La carte routière indique que la distance est d'environ quatre-vingts kilomètres.
The road map indicates the distance is about eighty kilometers.
Specifying distance.
La recherche a révélé que quatre-vingts pour cent des participants ont montré une amélioration significative.
The research revealed that eighty percent of the participants showed significant improvement.
Reporting research findings with percentages.
Les économistes prévoient que la croissance du PIB atteindra quatre-vingts milliards d'euros l'année prochaine.
Economists predict that GDP growth will reach eighty billion euros next year.
Discussing large financial figures.
L'analyse spectrale a identifié quatre-vingts pics d'émission distincts.
Spectral analysis identified eighty distinct emission peaks.
Using numbers in scientific analysis.
La nouvelle réglementation environnementale impose une réduction de quatre-vingts pour cent des déchets plastiques.
The new environmental regulation requires an eighty percent reduction in plastic waste.
Discussing regulatory targets.
Le catalogue propose quatre-vingts modèles différents de smartphones.
The catalog offers eighty different smartphone models.
Listing a large number of variations.
La durée moyenne d'un vol transatlantique est d'environ huit heures, soit quatre-vingts pour cent de la journée.
The average duration of a transatlantic flight is about eight hours, which is eighty percent of the day.
Comparing durations and percentages.
L'entreprise a investi quatre-vingts millions d'euros dans la recherche et le développement.
The company invested eighty million euros in research and development.
Reporting large-scale financial investments.
Les archives révèlent que quatre-vingts pour cent des documents ont été détruits lors de l'incendie.
The archives reveal that eighty percent of the documents were destroyed in the fire.
Describing the extent of damage using percentages.
L'étude démographique a mis en évidence que quatre-vingts pour cent de la population active réside dans les zones urbaines.
The demographic study highlighted that eighty percent of the active population resides in urban areas.
Analyzing demographic trends with precise figures.
La politique de vaccination a permis d'atteindre quatre-vingts pour cent de couverture dans les groupes cibles.
The vaccination policy has achieved eighty percent coverage in the target groups.
Discussing public health policy outcomes.
Le volume des exportations a augmenté de quatre-vingts pour cent au cours du dernier trimestre.
The volume of exports increased by eighty percent in the last quarter.
Reporting significant economic performance.
La majorité écrasante, soit quatre-vingts pour cent des électeurs, a voté en faveur de la réforme.
The overwhelming majority, amounting to eighty percent of voters, voted in favor of the reform.
Emphasizing a strong majority with a precise percentage.
L'analyse comparative a montré que quatre-vingts pour cent des fonctionnalités sont communes aux deux plateformes.
The comparative analysis showed that eighty percent of the features are common to both platforms.
Comparing technical specifications or features.
La subvention couvre quatre-vingts pour cent des coûts de recherche initiaux.
The grant covers eighty percent of the initial research costs.
Explaining financial coverage in detail.
Le projet d'infrastructure, d'un coût de quatre-vingts millions d'euros, est achevé à quatre-vingts pour cent.
The infrastructure project, costing eighty million euros, is eighty percent complete.
Combining cost and progress percentage.
La nouvelle stratégie marketing vise à atteindre quatre-vingts pour cent de part de marché d'ici deux ans.
The new marketing strategy aims to achieve eighty percent market share within two years.
Setting ambitious business objectives.
Les statistiques indiquent que quatre-vingts pour cent des innovations technologiques majeures ont émergé de collaborations interdisciplinaires.
Statistics indicate that eighty percent of major technological innovations have emerged from interdisciplinary collaborations.
Discussing complex causal relationships with statistical backing.
L'évaluation post-implémentation a révélé que quatre-vingts pour cent des utilisateurs ont adopté la nouvelle fonctionnalité avec enthousiasme.
The post-implementation evaluation revealed that eighty percent of users enthusiastically adopted the new feature.
Analyzing user adoption and sentiment.
Le rendement de l'investissement, estimé à quatre-vingts pour cent par an, dépasse largement les prévisions initiales.
The return on investment, estimated at eighty percent per year, far exceeds initial forecasts.
Discussing high-level financial performance and exceeding expectations.
La résilience du tissu économique local a été testée, mais quatre-vingts pour cent des petites entreprises ont survécu à la crise.
The resilience of the local economic fabric has been tested, but eighty percent of small businesses survived the crisis.
Analyzing economic resilience and survival rates.
L'analyse des données historiques suggère que quatre-vingts pour cent des changements climatiques majeurs ont été précédés par des variations solaires significatives.
Analysis of historical data suggests that eighty percent of major climate changes were preceded by significant solar variations.
Linking complex phenomena with statistical correlations.
La mise en œuvre de la nouvelle politique éducative vise à garantir que quatre-vingts pour cent des diplômés acquièrent les compétences professionnelles requises.
The implementation of the new educational policy aims to ensure that eighty percent of graduates acquire the required professional skills.
Discussing policy objectives and skill acquisition targets.
Les résultats préliminaires indiquent que quatre-vingts pour cent des échantillons analysés présentent des traces de contaminants inattendus.
Preliminary results indicate that eighty percent of the analyzed samples show traces of unexpected contaminants.
Reporting on scientific findings and potential risks.
La transformation numérique de l'entreprise a entraîné une augmentation de quatre-vingts pour cent de l'efficacité opérationnelle.
The company's digital transformation has led to an eighty percent increase in operational efficiency.
Quantifying the impact of technological advancements.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— He is eighty years old.
Mon oncle a eu quatre-vingts ans la semaine dernière.
— It costs eighty euros.
Ce nouveau téléphone coûte quatre-vingts euros.
— There are eighty people here.
Pour la fête, il y a environ quatre-vingts personnes.
— Eighty and one (incorrect).
Il faut dire "quatre-vingt-un", pas "quatre-vingts et un".
Often Confused With
This is the singular form used when 'quatre-vingts' is followed by another digit (e.g., quatre-vingt-un). The 's' is dropped.
'Vingt' means twenty. 'Quatre-vingts' is four times twenty.
This means seventy, another example of a compound number in French, but distinct from eighty.
Idioms & Expressions
— To not be eighty years old; to be younger.
Il est encore jeune, il n'a pas quatre-vingts ans, il a seulement trente ans.
Neutral— To be in one's eighties.
Sa grand-mère est dans les quatre-vingts, elle a quatre-vingt-deux ans.
Informal— To reach the age of eighty.
Il espère faire quatre-vingts ans pour voir sa famille.
Neutral— Eighty kilometers per hour (often used to indicate speed).
Il roulait à quatre-vingts à l'heure sur cette route.
Neutral— To be older than eighty years old.
Ce bâtiment est très ancien, il est plus vieux que quatre-vingts ans.
Neutral— To sell eighty items (not a true idiom, but a common phrase structure).
Le marchand a vendu quatre-vingts pièces de tissu aujourd'hui.
Neutral— To have an eighty percent chance.
Vous avez quatre-vingts pour cent de chances de réussir si vous travaillez dur.
Neutral— A task that takes eighty days to complete.
La construction du pont a été un travail de quatre-vingts jours.
Neutral— More than eighty years of history.
Cette entreprise a plus de quatre-vingts ans d'histoire.
Neutral— A sequence of numbers, often implying a progression or a large quantity.
Il a dépensé quatre-vingts, cent, deux cents euros pour cette soirée.
InformalEasily Confused
The presence or absence of the final 's' in 'vingts' is a key point of confusion.
'Quatre-vingts' (with 's') is used when the number eighty stands alone or is followed by a consonant. 'Quatre-vingt' (without 's') is used when it is followed by another digit to form a compound number (e.g., quatre-vingt-un, quatre-vingt-deux).
J'ai quatre-vingts euros. (Eighty euros). Il a quatre-vingt-trois ans. (Eighty-three years old).
Both are related to the concept of 'twenty'.
'Vingt' means twenty. 'Quatre-vingts' means eighty, literally 'four twenties'. 'Vingt' is used for the number 20, while 'quatre-vingts' is used for 80.
Il y a vingt livres. (There are twenty books). Il y a quatre-vingts livres. (There are eighty books).
Both are examples of compound numbers in French that deviate from a simple single word.
'Soixante-dix' means seventy (sixty-ten). 'Quatre-vingts' means eighty (four twenties). They represent different quantities and have different structures.
J'ai soixante-dix ans. (I am seventy years old). J'ai quatre-vingts ans. (I am eighty years old).
Conceptually, eight tens equals eighty.
'Huit dizaines' is a descriptive phrase meaning 'eight tens'. 'Quatre-vingts' is the actual, standard numeral for eighty used in French. You would never say 'huit dizaines' to mean eighty in a normal context.
Correct: Il a quatre-vingts ans. Incorrect: Il a huit dizaines d'ans.
Both are cardinal numbers, and 'cent' is the next major number after the eighties.
'Cent' means one hundred. 'Quatre-vingts' means eighty. They represent different quantities.
Il y a quatre-vingts étudiants dans la salle. Il y a cent étudiants dans l'amphithéâtre.
Sentence Patterns
Quatre-vingts + [Noun]
Quatre-vingts pommes.
Subject + a + quatre-vingts ans
Il a quatre-vingts ans.
Il y a + quatre-vingts + [Noun]
Il y a quatre-vingts chaises.
Le prix est + quatre-vingts + [Currency]
Le prix est quatre-vingts euros.
Quatre-vingts + pour cent + [Noun/Subject]
Quatre-vingts pour cent des étudiants ont réussi.
Subject + Verb + quatre-vingts + [Unit of Time/Distance]
Le voyage dure quatre-vingts minutes.
Subject + a + quatre-vingt-[Digit]
Elle a quatre-vingt-cinq ans.
Le nombre + quatre-vingts + [Noun]
Le nombre quatre-vingts est un nombre pair.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Very High
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Pronouncing the 's' in 'vingts' when it should be silent.
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The 's' is usually silent in 'quatre-vingts' unless followed by a vowel sound (liaison).
For example, 'quatre-vingts' (eighty) is pronounced without the 's' sound, but 'quatre-vingts ans' (eighty years) is pronounced with the 's' linking to 'ans'. Many learners mistakenly pronounce the 's' in all cases.
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Adding the 's' in compound numbers (e.g., 'quatre-vingts-un').
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'Quatre-vingt-un' (eighty-one).
When 'quatre-vingts' is followed by another digit (1-9), the 's' on 'vingts' is dropped. Saying 'quatre-vingts-un' is grammatically incorrect.
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Omitting the 's' when liaison is required.
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'Quatre-vingts‿ans' (eighty years).
In spoken French, the final 's' of 'vingts' becomes audible and links to the following word if it starts with a vowel or silent 'h'. Failing to do this can make pronunciation less fluid.
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Translating 'quatre-vingts' too literally as 'four twenties' in conversation.
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Treat 'quatre-vingts' as the single word for eighty.
While the literal meaning helps understanding, constantly breaking it down in speech can sound unnatural. Native speakers simply use 'quatre-vingts' as the number eighty.
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Confusing 'quatre-vingts' with 'soixante-dix' or 'quatre-vingt-dix'.
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Remembering the distinct values: soixante-dix (70), quatre-vingts (80), quatre-vingt-dix (90).
These numbers all have unique structures in French. It's important to memorize their specific values and not confuse their forms.
Tips
Master the 's'!
The 's' at the end of 'vingts' is usually silent. However, it is pronounced and links to the next word if that word starts with a vowel or a silent 'h' (liaison). For example, 'quatre-vingts' (eighty) vs. 'quatre-vingts ans' (eighty years). Practice this rule to sound more natural.
The 's' Rule in Compound Numbers
Remember that when 'quatre-vingts' is followed by another digit (81-89), the 's' is dropped. So, it's 'quatre-vingt-un', not 'quatre-vingts-un'. This is a crucial distinction for correct writing and pronunciation.
Visualize Four Groups of Twenty
To remember 'quatre-vingts' means eighty, picture four distinct groups, each containing twenty items. This visual connection to 'four' and 'twenty' helps solidify the meaning and recall.
Use it in Sentences
Actively try to use 'quatre-vingts' in your own sentences. Create phrases about age, quantity, or price. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Listen for the Sound
When listening to French, pay attention to how native speakers say 'quatre-vingts'. Notice the nasal vowel and the silent 's', and try to catch instances of liaison.
Compare with English
Recognize that English uses a single word ('eighty'), while French uses a compound structure ('quatre-vingts'). This difference is a key part of learning French numerals.
Note Regional Differences
While 'quatre-vingts' is standard French, be aware that in places like Switzerland, 'huitante' is used for eighty. However, 'quatre-vingts' is universally understood.
Hyphenation Matters
When forming compound numbers from 81-89, use hyphens: 'quatre-vingt-un', 'quatre-vingt-deux'. This is standard French orthography for compound numbers.
Don't Be Afraid to Try!
Learning French numbers, especially the unique structures like 'quatre-vingts', takes practice. Don't hesitate to use it, even if you make mistakes. Correction is part of the learning process!
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine four large groups, each containing twenty balloons. When you count all the balloons, you have a total of eighty. So, 'quatre' (four) times 'vingts' (twenties) equals eighty.
Visual Association
Picture four stacks, each with twenty coins. The total number of coins represents eighty. Or visualize a clock face where eighty minutes is one hour and twenty minutes, and then imagine four of these blocks of twenty minutes.
Word Web
Challenge
Write down "quatre-vingts" ten times, saying it aloud each time. Then, try to write five sentences using the word "quatre-vingts" in different contexts (age, price, quantity).
Word Origin
The French word "quatre-vingts" for eighty originates from the Old French "quatre-vint," meaning "four twenties." This construction is a remnant of a vigesimal (base-20) counting system that was historically used in parts of Europe, including France. This system is also evident in other French numbers like "soixante-dix" (sixty-ten) and "quatre-vingt-dix" (four-twenty-ten).
Original meaning: Four twenties.
Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Gallo-Romance > French.Cultural Context
None related to this numeral.
In English, we have a single word 'eighty' for this number. The French structure 'quatre-vingts' (four twenties) is a significant difference that learners need to adjust to.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Shopping and Prices
- Ça coûte quatre-vingts euros.
- Le total est de quatre-vingts.
- Je voudrais quatre-vingts articles.
Age and Years
- Il a quatre-vingts ans.
- Elle fête ses quatre-vingts ans.
- C'est son quatre-vingtième anniversaire.
Quantities and Counts
- Il y a quatre-vingts personnes.
- J'ai quatre-vingts livres.
- Nous avons quatre-vingts chaises.
Time and Duration
- Le film dure quatre-vingts minutes.
- J'ai attendu quatre-vingts minutes.
- Le projet prendra quatre-vingts jours.
Statistics and Percentages
- Quatre-vingts pour cent.
- Environ quatre-vingts.
- Plus de quatre-vingts.
Conversation Starters
"What is your grandparents' age, if they are around eighty?"
"If you were to buy eighty items, what would they be?"
"How long do you think it would take to travel eighty kilometers?"
"Imagine a party with eighty guests. What kind of food would you serve?"
"If a book has eighty pages, is it considered long or short?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a time you encountered a large number, like eighty, and what it represented.
Describe a situation where you had to count eighty items. How did you do it?
If you were to achieve a goal that is eighty percent complete, what would that goal be?
Imagine you are eighty years old. What advice would you give to your younger self?
Write a short story that incorporates the number eighty in a significant way.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe pronunciation is roughly 'ka-truh-van'. The 'quatre' sounds like 'ca-truh'. The 'vingts' has a nasal vowel sound, similar to 'ahn' in 'lawn' but shorter, and the final 'ts' is usually silent. So, it's 'ka-truh-van'. Remember that the 's' in 'vingts' can be pronounced if the next word starts with a vowel or a silent 'h' (liaison), as in 'quatre-vingts ans' (eighty years).
This is due to the historical influence of a vigesimal (base-20) counting system in French. 'Quatre-vingts' literally means 'four twenties'. This system is also seen in other French numbers like seventy ('soixante-dix' - sixty-ten) and ninety ('quatre-vingt-dix' - four-twenty-ten).
You drop the 's' from 'vingts' and use 'quatre-vingt' when it is followed by another digit to form a compound number. For example, 'quatre-vingt-un' (eighty-one), 'quatre-vingt-deux' (eighty-two), up to 'quatre-vingt-neuf' (eighty-nine). The 's' is present when 'quatre-vingts' stands alone or is followed by a consonant.
In standard French, yes. However, in some regions like Switzerland and parts of Belgium, 'huitante' is used for eighty. But 'quatre-vingts' is universally understood.
Yes, you can use the numeral '80'. In most contexts, especially in informal writing, tables, or when dealing with large numbers or data, numerals are common. However, in more formal writing, literature, or when you want to emphasize the number itself, writing it out as 'quatre-vingts' is preferred.
'Vingt' means twenty. 'Quatre-vingts' means eighty. 'Quatre-vingts' is literally four times twenty.
As a cardinal number, 'quatre-vingts' does not change for gender or number when it modifies a noun. For example, 'quatre-vingts pommes' (eighty apples) and 'quatre-vingts chiens' (eighty dogs). The only change is the 's' rule mentioned for compound numbers.
The word 'quatre-vingts' itself implies a plural quantity (a multiple of twenty). When it stands alone or is followed by a consonant, the 's' is present, indicating this plural sense. It doesn't take another plural marker.
Common mistakes include mispronouncing the 's' (pronouncing it when silent, or not linking it when liaison is needed), incorrectly using the 's' in compound numbers (like 'quatre-vingts-un'), and getting confused by the 'four twenties' structure.
Yes, there are phrases like 'faire quatre-vingts' (to reach the age of eighty) or 'quatre-vingts à l'heure' (eighty kilometers per hour, referring to speed). 'Être dans les quatre-vingts' means to be in one's eighties.
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Summary
The French word for eighty is 'quatre-vingts'. Its unique structure, derived from 'four twenties,' is a key feature of French numeration. Master its pronunciation and usage in various contexts, from simple counting to statistical reporting.
- The French number for eighty is 'quatre-vingts'.
- It literally means 'four twenties'.
- Used for quantities, ages, prices, and more.
- Pronunciation rules apply, especially regarding the 's'.
Master the 's'!
The 's' at the end of 'vingts' is usually silent. However, it is pronounced and links to the next word if that word starts with a vowel or a silent 'h' (liaison). For example, 'quatre-vingts' (eighty) vs. 'quatre-vingts ans' (eighty years). Practice this rule to sound more natural.
The 's' Rule in Compound Numbers
Remember that when 'quatre-vingts' is followed by another digit (81-89), the 's' is dropped. So, it's 'quatre-vingt-un', not 'quatre-vingts-un'. This is a crucial distinction for correct writing and pronunciation.
Visualize Four Groups of Twenty
To remember 'quatre-vingts' means eighty, picture four distinct groups, each containing twenty items. This visual connection to 'four' and 'twenty' helps solidify the meaning and recall.
Context is Key
'Quatre-vingts' is used for quantities, ages, prices, and time. Always consider the context to ensure you're using the number correctly. For example, 'quatre-vingts ans' for age, and 'quatre-vingts euros' for price.
Example
J'ai quatre-vingts euros.
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à cause de
A2Because of; on account of (a neutral or negative cause).
à côté
A2Next to; beside.
à côté de
A2Next to, beside.
À droite
A2To the right; on the right side.
À gauche
A2To the left; on the left side.
à la
A2To the (feminine singular), indicates direction or location.
à laquelle
B2To which; at which (feminine singular).
à mesure que
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abrégé
B1An abstract, summary, or abridgment.
absence
A2The state of being away from a place or person.
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