Number formatting in different languages: a comparative guide

In a world where businesses communicate internationally, a mistake in writing numbers can lead to misunderstandings or even financial repercussions. At SwissGlobal, we help our clients adapt their content linguistically and culturally, including by making sure they adhere to the standards for number formatting in different languages.

In this article, we explore the key differences between French (France/Switzerland), German (Germany/Switzerland), and English (United Kingdom) in terms of:

• Decimal separators
• Thousand separators
• Amounts and currencies
• Dates
• Writing out numbers in words

1. Decimal separators: comma or full stop?

The decimal separator varies from one language to another and can even differ within the same language, depending on the country.

In French and German, decimals are separated by a comma (12,5 %), whereas in English, a full stop is used (12.5%).

Using the wrong separator can have serious consequences! The number 1,500 represents one thousand five hundred in English, whereas in French and German, it signifies one point five. In an annual report, for instance, such a mistake would be highly unfortunate.

However, in Switzerland, a full stop is used to separate the decimals in amounts. So, we would write:

• 12,5 %
• 12.50 CHF

Whereas in France, the comma is used in both instances:

• 12,5 %
• 12,50 €

2. Thousand separators: space, full stop, comma or apostrophe?

There are also different traditions when it comes to thousand separators.

In both French and German, numbers with five or more digits are separated by a non-breaking space between each group of three digits. However, numbers are sometimes separated by an apostrophe, especially due to the formatting in certain pieces of software.

In English, a comma is used to separate thousands. This is where you need to be cautious when translating from English to French, to ensure you do not confuse thousand separators with decimal points.

3. Standards for writing amounts and currencies

The conventions for writing amounts are defined by the decimal separator symbol and where the currency symbol is placed.

In French and German from Germany, the currency symbol is typically placed after the amount. In Swiss German and English, it’s the other way around. In English, when using the £ or € symbol, no space is required: £1,500.

Decimal examples:

• French: 2350,75 CHF (France) / 2350.75 CHF (Switzerland)
• German: 2350,75 CHF (Germany) / CHF 2350.75 (Switzerland)
• English: CHF 2,350.75 or £2,350.75

4. Writing standards for dates

Date formats are often a source of confusion in international communication.

Attention! 04/03/2026 means:

• 4 March 2026 in the United Kingdom
• 3 April 2026 in the United States

To prevent any confusion, you can use the ISO format (2026-03-04) or spell out the month: March 4, 2026.

5. Guidelines for writing percentages and units of measurement

In French and German, numbers and units are separated by a non-breaking space. In English, the percentage sign is not preceded by a space, whereas units of measurement are, such as ’15 kg’.

Generally, the same rules apply to units of measurement (km, kg, etc.) in both French and German. However, in reality, businesses often establish their own writing standards instead of following those recommended by grammar guides. This might be due to limited space or a predefined format set by software programs.

6. Writing out numbers in words: when and how?

The standards for writing out numbers vary depending on the language and the context. Numbers are treated differently depending on whether the text is legal or scientific in nature, for example.

French

Generally, the following are written out in words:

• numbers from 1 to 9 (or even up to 16 according to some sources, i.e. up to and including composite numbers);
• numbers used at the beginning of a sentence (Vingt-huit personnes étaient présentes);
• numbers used as common nouns (le cinq de carreau, les trois-quarts);
• numbers in certain expressions (les années nonante, se mettre sur son trente-et-un);
• numbers in legal and literary texts.

German

An old German typographical rule recommended spelling out numbers up to twelve, but this is no longer strictly followed today. The Duden recommends spelling out numbers in full in literary texts, except for long numbers (e.g. 37 instead of siebenunddreissig).

English

In editorial content, it is also recommended to spell out numbers from one to nine. The guidelines for writing numbers vary depending on the style guide chosen, however (APA, Chicago, etc.) Numbers at the start of sentences should also be written out in full.

In all languages, it is common practice to write years and measurements in figures.

7. Best practices for number formatting in different languages

To ensure consistency and prevent mistakes:

• Always tailor digital formats to the target language
• Adhere to local typographic standards
• Have content reviewed by linguistic experts

At SwissGlobal, we ensure your content is not only translated but also adapted to local number conventions, ensuring clarity, compliance and professionalism.

More than just a matter of typography

The way numbers are written in different languages is more than just a typographical detail. These differences are derived from cultural and professional standards. If you fail to observe local practices, you introduce an element of unfamiliarity in your text, which can unsettle the reader and distract them from the content.

A misplaced comma can change the value of a contract; an incorrectly formatted date can delay a delivery; and a wrongly positioned currency symbol can harm a document’s credibility. In a multilingual environment, precision is paramount.

Need to adapt your documents for an international audience? Contact us for comprehensive language expertise that combines technical precision with cultural sensitivity.

References:

Typographic style guide for French-speaking Switzerland

Duden

Writing guidelines from the Federal Chancellery University of Cambridge Style Guide