neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'onze' in everyday situations, such as counting items, telling time, or discussing age. For example, in a classroom, a teacher may ask how many students are present, and a student might respond, 'Hi ha onze alumnes' (There are eleven students).
Synonyms & nuances
'Onze' is specifically used for the number eleven, whereas 'dotze' means twelve. The choice of 'onze' is clear when speaking about quantities or age, while 'dotze' would be used when referring to the next number in a sequence. It's important to use the correct term to avoid confusion in counting or ordering.
Culture
The word 'onze' has roots in Latin, derived from 'undecim', which means 'one and ten'. In Catalonia, the number eleven has a special significance in sports, particularly football, where teams often celebrate a lineup of eleven players, symbolizing unity and teamwork.
FAQ
Q.How do you say eleven in Catalan?
'Eleven' in Catalan is 'onze'. It's a straightforward word that you can easily incorporate into your vocabulary as you learn to count in Catalan.
Q.Is 'onze' used in any idiomatic expressions?
While 'onze' itself isn't typically found in idiomatic expressions, knowing this number can help you understand context in conversations, especially when discussing time or sports.
Q.What is the plural of 'onze'?
The word 'onze' does not have a plural form because it refers specifically to the number eleven. However, if you're counting groups of eleven items, you would still use 'onze' to describe each group.