I'm learning português

onze — meaning in English: eleven

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for eleven
onze
comunicação
descobrir
olho
cor
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Portuguese for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native Portuguese speakers use the word 'onze' when counting, telling time, or discussing numbers in everyday situations. For instance, you might hear it during a conversation about someone's age, like 'Eu tenho onze anos' (I am eleven years old), or when asking about the time, such as 'Que horas são? São onze horas' (What time is it? It's eleven o'clock).
Synonyms & nuances
'Onze' is distinct from the word 'um' (one) and 'dois' (two), as it is part of the teens category in Portuguese numbers. Unlike 'um' and 'dois,' which are base numbers, 'onze' represents a more complex numeral and is used in specific contexts when counting beyond ten.
Culture
'Onze' is derived from the Latin word 'undecim,' which means eleven. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, the number eleven is often associated with sports, particularly in soccer, as many teams have eleven players on the field, making this number significant in discussions about sports and teamwork.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'onze'?
'Onze' is pronounced like 'on-zee,' with the 'on' rhyming with 'cone' and a soft 'zee' sound at the end. Listening to native speakers can help you master the pronunciation.
Q.Is 'onze' used in formal contexts?
Yes, 'onze' is a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Whether you're discussing numbers in a business meeting or casually talking with friends, 'onze' is appropriate.
Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word 'onze'?
A common mistake is mispronouncing 'onze' as 'onzeh' with an extra 'h' sound. Ensure you pronounce it as 'on-zee' to sound natural in conversation.
Learn portuguese with Maspeak →
Portuguese Vocabulary