Numbers in Wolof: Counting from 1 to 100 (and Money!)
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
Mastering numbers opens up real-life Wolof conversations, especially at markets, in taxis, or when discussing prices. Wolof numbers follow a logical, elegant system based on 5 and 10. Once you learn the basics, you can build higher numbers easily. This guide covers cardinal numbers from 1 to 100, how they are constructed, money expressions, and essential bargaining phrases so you can shop and negotiate confidently in Senegal.
Why Numbers Matter in Everyday Wolof
In Senegal, numbers appear everywhere: market bargaining, taxi fares, family discussions about money, and telling time. Wolof speakers use numbers fluidly, often mixing them with French for higher amounts in cities. Learning the system helps you move beyond greetings and engage in practical daily life.
Basic Wolof Numbers 1–10
These are the foundation:
1 — benn
2 — ñaar
3 — ñett
4 — ñeent
5 — juroom
6 — juroom-benn
7 — juroom-ñaar
8 — juroom-ñett
9 — juroom-ñeent
10 — fukk
Notice how 6 – 9 combine “juroom” (5) with the lower numbers.
How Wolof Numbers Are Built: The Pattern Explained
Wolof uses a base-10 system with clear rules. After 10, numbers combine tens and units with ak (and).
Example: Ñaar fukk ak ñett = 20 + 3 = 23
Other patterns:
11 — fukk ak benn (10 and 1)
15 — fukk ak juroom (10 and 5)
20 — ñaar fukk (2 × 10)
30 — ñett fukk
40 — ñeent fukk
50 — juroom fukk
60 — Juróom benn fukk
70 — Juróom ñaar fukk
80 — Juróom ñett fukk
90 — Juróom ñent fukk
100 — Teeméer
For multiples of ten above 10, simply put the multiplier before fukk.
Counting from 11 to 100
Numbers between tens are formed by adding ak (and/with) followed by the units (1-9). Here are key milestones:
21 — ñaar fukk ak benn
35 — ñett fukk ak juroom
56 — Juróom fukk ak juróom benn (50 + 6)
67 — juroom benn fukk ak juroom-ñaar
88 — juroom-ñett fukk ak juroom-ñett
99 — juroom-ñeent fukk ak juroom-ñeent
100 — téeméer
Higher numbers build similarly: 200 is ñaar téeméer, 1000 is junni.
Numbers for Money and Prices
The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the currency. Wolof speakers often say franc or simply state the number.
Useful phrases:
Ñaata la? — How much is it? / How much does it cost?
Ñaar fukk — 20 (francs)
Juroom fukk — 50
Téeméer — 100
Ñaar téeméer — 200
Examples: Lii ñaata la? (How much is this?) Téeméer la. (It’s 100 francs.)
Bargaining Basics at the Market
Bargaining is expected and part of the fun in Senegalese markets.
Key phrases:
Dafa seer! — It’s expensive!
Waññi ko. — Lower the price.
Mën nga ci waññi? — Can you reduce it?
Lii dafa baaxul. — This is not good (too expensive).
Jërëjëf! — Thank you! (always polite even if you walk away)
Practice a full exchange:
Buyer: Ñaata la?
Seller: Ñeent téeméer. (400)
Buyer: Dafa seer! Waññi ko, su la neexee. (It’s expensive! Lower it please.)
FAQ: Common Questions About Wolof Numbers
How do you say 23 in Wolof?
Ñaar fukk ak ñett.
What is 100 in Wolof?
Téeméer.
How do you ask “How much?” in Wolof?
Ñaata la? — the most useful market phrase.
Do Wolof speakers use French numbers too?
Yes, especially in cities and for large amounts. Mixing is common.
Is the Wolof number system difficult?
No. Once you learn the first ten and the pattern with “fukk” and “ak.” It is very logical.
How do you say “It’s too expensive”?
Dafa seer! or Lii dafa seer torop.
Wrapping Up: Start Counting in Wolof Today
Numbers are one of the most practical parts of learning Wolof. Master 1–100; understand how they combine, and you will handle markets, taxis, and money conversations with confidence. Every number you use shows respect and builds real connections.
Ready to practice more? NKENNE’s Wolof courses include audio lessons on numbers, bargaining dialogues, and full cultural context. Start today and turn theory into everyday conversations in Senegal.