Number to words converter
Type a number and get it written out in words, in the international system (thousand, million, billion) or the Indian system (thousand, lakh, crore). Handy for cheques, forms and invoices.
Worked example
With the values shown above when the page opens:
Twelve million three hundred forty-five thousand six hundred seventy-eight point zero nine
- International system: digits are read in groups of three: thousands, millions, billions and so on.
How it works
- The number is split into groups: three digits at a time in the international system, and after the first three, two digits at a time in the Indian system.
- Each group is read as hundreds, tens and ones and given its name: thousand, million, billion (or thousand, lakh, crore).
- Numbers from 21 to 99 are hyphenated (forty-two). British style adds "and" after "hundred" (one hundred and five).
- Digits after the decimal point are read one at a time: 3.14 is "three point one four".
Questions
What is a lakh and a crore?
A lakh is one hundred thousand (1,00,000) and a crore is ten million (1,00,00,000). They are used in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal.
How do I write an amount in words on a cheque?
Use the British style with "and" and write the decimals as a fraction or as paise or cents, following your bank's instructions. This tool gives the words for the number itself.
Why does "billion" mean different things in old British English?
Older British usage made a billion a million million. Today the international and Indian-English usage is one thousand million, which is what this tool uses.
Related
Calculators are for learning and quick checks. Check important figures yourself, and do not rely on them for tax, legal or financial decisions.