How to Say Numbers in Spanish - Counting and Numerals Guide
As of 2026, understanding how to count and say numbers in Spanish is essential for anyone learning the language or planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country. This article focuses on the word "number" and provides insights into counting beyond basic figures.
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How to Say Numbers in Spanish
The term "número" (IPA: /ˈnumeɾo/) is used for "number" in Spanish, referring to a mathematical concept that represents quantity or value. Beyond the basics, it's crucial to understand how to count higher figures and use ordinal numbers.
Counting Numbers from 21-100
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The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →To say numbers beyond twenty in Spanish, follow these patterns:
- 21 - Veintiuno (IPA: /βe̞nˈti.uno/)
- 25 - Veinticinco (IPA: /βenˈtikĩŋko/)
- 30 - Treinta (IPA: /ˈtɾjen.ta/)
- 40 - Cuarenta (IPA: /kwa.renˈta/)
- 50 - Cincuenta (IPA: /θinˈkwen.ta/)
- 60 - Sesenta (IPA: /seˈsen.ta/)
- 70 - Setenta (IPA: /seˈtɛn.ta/)
- 80 - Ochenta (IPA: /oˈtʃen.ta/)
- 90 - Noventa (IPA: /noˈβen.ta/)
- 100 - Cien (IPA: /θjen/)
Ordinal Numbers in Spanish
Ordinal numbers are used to indicate order or sequence. Here’s how they are formed and pronounced:
- First - Primero (IPA: /priˈmeɾo/)
- Second - Segundo (IPA: /seˈɡun.do/)
- Third - Tercero (IPA: /terˈθe.ɾo/)
- Fifth - Quinto (IPA: /kin.to/)
- Tenth - Décimo (IPA: /ˈðek.simo/)
Sample Sentences Using Ordinal Numbers
Here are some sentences using ordinal numbers:
- El segundo piso está en el tercer nivel.
(The second floor is on the third level.)
- Soy la quinta persona en la fila.
(I am the fifth person in line.)
Regional Differences and Variations
In Spanish, while "número" is universally accepted for "number," different regions may use alternative terms:
- Número telefónico: Used in parts of Latin America for phone number.
- Cifra (IPA: /ˈθif.ɾa/): Used in some regions of Spain instead of "número."
How to Count and Say Numbers in Spanish: Tips
To improve your counting skills, practice with numbers from 1-100 daily. Focus on pronunciation and usage in context.
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Improve Your Spanish with a Frequency Dictionary (Updated 2026)
Research consistently shows that mastering the top 1,000–3,000 most common words unlocks comprehension of 80–95% of everyday text and conversation. Our Spanish Frequency Dictionary series is built around this principle: curated frequency-ranked word lists, bilingual example sentences in context, phonetic pronunciation, and part-of-speech data — covering A1 through C2 levels.