Native Numbers

Level 1

Native numerals are used for counting items (1–10). They always require the linker ka before the noun.

How It Works

Native Cebuano numerals are the foundation for counting small quantities. Unlike English, you cannot simply place the number before the noun; you must use the particle ka as a bridge.

The 1–10 List:

  • 1: usa
  • 2: duha
  • 3: tulo
  • 4: upat
  • 5: lima
  • 6: unom
  • 7: pito
  • 8: walo
  • 9: siyam
  • 10: napulo

The Linker 'ka':
The standard pattern is [Number] + ka + [Noun]. For example, duha ka libro (two books). Unlike the general ligature nga, the linker ka never contracts or changes its form, even if the number ends in a vowel.

Usage Limits:
While native numbers exist for large values (e.g., gatus for 100), modern Cebuano speakers almost exclusively use native numbers for 1 through 10. For 11 and above, or for specific systems like telling time and counting money, Spanish or English numbers are preferred. Using native numbers for age (e.g., napulo ka tuig) is grammatically correct but usually describes a duration of time rather than how old a person is.

Examples (5)

  1. usa ka tawo

    one person

    Word by Word: one [linker] person

    The number 'usa' (one) always uses 'ka' when modifying a noun.

  2. tulo ka iring

    three cats

    Word by Word: three [linker] cat

    Native numbers are the default choice for counting animals.

  3. Naay lima ka baso sa lamesa.

    There are five glasses on the table.

    Word by Word: There-is five [linker] glass at table.

    This shows the standard pattern used in a full sentence with 'naay' (there is).

  4. duha ka tuig

    two years

    Word by Word: two [linker] year

    While Spanish is used for age, native numbers are used to count a duration of years.

  5. walo ka adlaw

    eight days

    Word by Word: eight [linker] day

    Native numbers are used for counting days up to ten.

Common Mistakes

  • Omitting the linker 'ka'.

    duha libro
    duha ka libro

    In Cebuano, you cannot attach a native number directly to a noun; the particle 'ka' is mandatory.

  • Using native numbers when you mean the time on a clock.

    Different Meaningduha na ang oras
    alas dos na

    'Duha na ang oras' is a good sentence, but it means 'it has been two hours.' For the time on a clock, use Spanish-derived numbers: 'Alas dos na.'

  • Using 'isa' instead of 'usa'.

    isa ka saging
    usa ka saging

    'Isa' is the Tagalog word for one. In Cebuano, the native word is 'usa'.

How It Connects

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Native NumbersLevel 1

Learn This First

To use native numerals effectively, you need to know the specific counting particle 'ka' used between numbers and nouns, as well as the basic spelling rules for the number names themselves.

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