I'm learning Nederlands

negen — meaning in English: nine

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

Guess the translation for nine
dilemma
negen
intrigeren
communicatie
verhouding
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Dutch 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 Dutch speakers frequently use 'negen' when discussing numbers, whether in everyday conversation, education, or during activities like shopping. For instance, you might hear a parent counting their children, saying, 'We have negen kinderen' (We have nine children), or in a game where players need to keep track of points.
Synonyms & nuances
'Negen' is specifically used to denote the number nine, while 'negentig' means ninety. Choosing 'negen' is straightforward when you're counting or specifying a quantity, whereas 'negentig' would apply in contexts requiring tens.
Culture
'Negen' has roots in Old Dutch, originating from the Proto-Germanic word *newn. Interestingly, in many cultures, the number nine holds special significance; for instance, in Japanese culture, it can symbolize suffering, while in numerology, it's often considered a number of completion. This duality adds an intriguing layer to the otherwise simple numeral.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'negen'?
'Negen' is pronounced as 'NAY-ghen', where 'gh' is a soft guttural sound that can be challenging for English speakers.
Q.Are there any common phrases with 'negen'?
Yes, you might hear 'negen uur' which means 'nine o'clock,' used when discussing time.
Q.What are some common mistakes with using 'negen'?
A common mistake is confusing 'negen' with 'negentig' (ninety); ensure you're using 'negen' when referring to the number nine.
Learn dutch with Maspeak →
Dutch Vocabulary