Pronouncing numbers with two digits.

Last Up date: 2006 June 15
Page started: 2006 June 15

In English, when we pronounce numbers 61 and greater we are quite systematic. We simply say the first digit, follow it by "T" and then say the second digit. Think about how you would pronounce the number 85. This consistency of pronunciation falters a bit when the last digit is zero: we simply don't say the second digit. I am not sure I like this convention. Would it not be better to say 60 as: "six T zero"? Consistent with how we say 69 as: "six T nine".

We should do the same with numbers smaller than 60. Thus, we would say for 22: "two T two", for 57: "five T seven", and for 17: "one T seven". I think you get the idea. And have to agree this is elegantly consistent. Yes, we would say for 11: "one T one", and for 12 "one T two". I would leave it as an option for 10: "one T zero" would not confuse anyone, but the short-cut "ten" would still be OK.

On a previous page I suggested in Dozenal we say "zen" for 10. It is nicer for me writing this, at least. Thus, for Dozenal, I would propose that we say "Z" where I have used "T" in the proceeding paragraph. Try saying: "five Z there" or "two Z two" or "nine Z eight". I think you will agree it rolls of the tongue very well.

The big question is: How do we bring about the change?


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