01
zig
countless
An indefinite, colloquial number that expresses a large but not precisely named quantity. It means something like 'very many.'
example
Ich habe dir das schon zig Mal gesagt!
I've told you that countless times already!
zig
countless
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Register and style
The word 'zig' (countless) is purely colloquial. You should only use it in informal conversations with friends or family, but never in formal texts, emails, or official situations.
EXAMPLE
Ich war schon zig Mal in diesem Café, es ist mein Lieblingsort.
I've been to this café countless times; it's my favorite place.
Sentence structure and usage
'Zig' (countless) is used like a number and stands directly before the noun. It is not declined, and the noun that follows is always in the plural.
EXAMPLE
Auf der Party waren zig Leute, die ich nicht kannte.
There were countless people at the party whom I didn't know.
Origin of the word
'Zig' (countless) derives from the ending of tens numbers such as 'zwanzig' (twenty), 'dreißig' (thirty), or 'vierzig' (forty). It has become established as an independent word for an indefinite large quantity.
EXAMPLE
Es gibt zig Gründe, warum man eine neue Sprache lernen sollte.
There are countless reasons why you should learn a new language.
Compare with
zig vs viel
much / a lot
'viel' and 'zig' both express that there is a large amount. 'viel' is neutral and very general. You can use it in many situations, including for things you do not count exactly. 'zig' is more colloquial and is used when you mean a large number but do not want to state the exact number. It fits especially well with countable things like messages, questions, or boxes. 'viel' sounds more normal and calmer, while 'zig' sounds stronger and often a bit exaggerated.
zig
Nach dem Umzug haben wir noch zig Kartons im Flur stehen.
After the move, we still have countless boxes standing in the hallway.
viel
Vor dem Wochenende hast du viel eingekauft, weil Besuch kommt.
Before the weekend, you bought a lot of groceries because visitors are coming.
In real life
Loading video examples...