Language/Classical-quechua/Vocabulary/Count-to-10
Hi Classical Quechua learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will learn how to count from 1 to 10 in Classical Quechua. Numbers are important in every language, and they are particularly crucial in Quechua culture. Counting is an integral part of the Inca civilization, and the Quechua language has a rich vocabulary that reflects this. So, let's start by learning the numbers!
Consider exploring these related pages after completing this lesson: Geography, Greetings, Food & Health.
Cardinal numbers[edit | edit source]
Cardinal numbers are the numbers we use to count things. In Classical Quechua, the cardinal numbers from 1 to 10 are:
| Classical Quechua | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| huk | /huk/ | one |
| iskay | /ɪskaj/ | two |
| kinsa | /kɪnsa/ | three |
| tawa | /tawa/ | four |
| pisqa | /pɪskʰa/ | five |
| soqta | /soqta/ | six |
| qanchis | /qat͡ʃis/ | seven |
| pusaq | /pʊsaq/ | eight |
| isqun | /ɪsqʊn/ | nine |
| chunka | /t͡ʃʊŋka/ | ten |
Pronunciation guide[edit | edit source]
In Classical Quechua, the vowels are pronounced as follows:
- a: as in "father"
- i: as in "seat"
- u: as in "boot"
- e: as in "let"
- q: is a glottal stop, similar to the sound between the ohs in "uh-oh"
- ch: as in "church"
- k: as in "sky"
Dialogue[edit | edit source]
Here is a dialogue to help you hear the numbers in context:
- Person 1: Huk. (One.)
- Person 2: Iskay. (Two.)
- Person 1: Kinsa. (Three.)
- Person 2: Tawa. (Four.)
- Person 1: Pisqa. (Five.)
- Person 2: Soqta. (Six.)
- Person 1: Qanchis. (Seven.)
- Person 2: Pusaq. (Eight.)
- Person 1: Isqun. (Nine.)
- Person 2: Chunka. (Ten.)
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Now that you know the basic numbers, you can start counting in Classical Quechua with confidence! Remember to practice your pronunciation and ask native speakers and ask them any questions. For more vocabulary, please visit the Vocabulary page.
In Quechua culture, numbers play an important role, and they are deeply intertwined with the language, traditions, and ways of life. One interesting fact is that in Quechua, the number three represents a balance, a harmony between opposites. So, learn Quechua, and you'll discover a whole new world of fascinating cultural insights!
➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎
Sources[edit | edit source]
Great work on completing this lesson! Take a moment to investigate these connected pages: Common phrases, Alphabet and Pronunciation, How to Say Hello and Greetings & Fruits.
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Drinks
- Animals
- Food
- How to Say Hello and Greetings
- Fruits
- Common phrases
- Express Surprise
- Geography
- Education