A Curious Linguistic Puzzle: Why 70 and 90 Are Missing
French is often praised for its elegance, complexity, and rich historical evolution. Yet, one of its quirks that puzzles both learners and native speakers is its numbering system. Unlike many other languages, French lacks distinct words for 70 and 90. Instead, it uses a form of mathematical construction that sets it apart. But why is this the case? To understand the reasoning behind this unique system, we must take a deep dive into the history, linguistic influences, and numerical traditions of the French language.
Historical Roots: The Lingering Influence of the Vigesimal System
Modern French numbers derive from multiple linguistic and cultural influences, but one of the most significant is the vigesimal (base-20) counting system. This system, which groups numbers in twenties rather than tens, can be traced back to the Celts, who inhabited large parts of what is now France before the Roman conquest.
The Celtic Connection
The Celts, like many ancient civilizations, counted using their fingers and toes, which naturally led to a base-20 system. Traces of this can be found not only in French but also in other languages with historical ties to the Celts, such as Danish and some regional dialects of French.
The Latin and Frankish Influence
After the Roman conquest, Latin became the dominant language, influencing Old French significantly. However, Latin primarily used a decimal system, which conflicted with the existing vigesimal traditions. The Franks, a Germanic people who settled in France, also contributed to the evolving linguistic landscape. As a result, French became a blend of these different numerical influences.
How It Works: The Unusual Construction of French Numbers
Instead of having separate words for 70 and 90, French uses a combination of existing numbers:
- 70 (soixante-dix): Translates to “sixty-ten,” combining 60 (soixante) with 10 (dix).
- 80 (quatre-vingts): Literally “four twenties,” reinforcing the vigesimal structure.
- 90 (quatre-vingt-dix): “Four twenties and ten,” further extending the pattern.
This system differs starkly from languages like English, Spanish, or Italian, which follow a more straightforward decimal approach.
Regional Variations: Not All French-Speakers Count the Same Way
Interestingly, not all French-speaking regions adhere strictly to the standard numbering system. Some areas have developed their own variations:
- Belgium and Switzerland: These regions have opted for a more decimal-friendly approach, using “septante” for 70 and “nonante” for 90, eliminating the need for complex calculations.
- French Canada: While largely following standard French, some informal settings might see alternative formulations.
These regional adaptations make it easier for speakers to use numbers in everyday conversation without the mental arithmetic required by standard French.
A Case Study: How This Affects Learners
For French learners, this numerical structure can be a significant hurdle. Take the example of an English speaker learning French:
Suppose a student is asked to say “97.” Instead of following a simple pattern like “ninety-seven,” they must think of “four twenties and seventeen” (quatre-vingt-dix-sept). This additional step requires both familiarity with multiplication and quick mental calculations, making it one of the trickier aspects of mastering French numbers.
Attempts at Reform: Why Hasn’t the System Changed?
Despite the apparent complexity, there have been no successful efforts to reform the French numerical system. Several factors contribute to this:
- Tradition: The existing system has been in place for centuries, and cultural resistance to change is strong.
- Standardization: France values linguistic uniformity, and altering the number system would create inconsistencies in literature, education, and legal documents.
- Global Francophonie: Many French-speaking regions already have their own adaptations, making reform unnecessary on a larger scale.
Conclusion: A Unique Numbering System Rooted in History
The absence of dedicated words for 70 and 90 in French is not a random quirk but a reflection of deep historical and cultural influences. From the Celts’ vigesimal system to Latin and Frankish contributions, French numbers tell a fascinating story of linguistic evolution. While the system remains challenging for learners, it also serves as a reminder of how language develops over time, shaped by the people who use it.
So, the next time you find yourself struggling with “quatre-vingt-dix-sept,” remember: you’re engaging with a centuries-old tradition that continues to shape the way French is spoken today.
