Voice dictation abbreviates non-English words in other languages

When using voice dictation in English, saying "twenty" produces the written text "twenty" (versus "20"). However, when I switch to ANY other language it abbreviates.


For example, Greek's word for 20, είκοσι, is rendered as "20". German's word for centimeter, Zentimeter, is frustratingly rendered as "cm".


How do I address this inconsistent garbage? How can I get the other languages to render as English does?


Thanks


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 14, iOS 18

Posted on Jan 21, 2025 7:42 PM

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1 reply

Jan 22, 2025 12:41 AM in response to FrauPflaume

FrauPflaume wrote:

When using voice dictation in English, saying "twenty" produces the written text "twenty" (versus "20").


On my iPhone 12 Pro iOS 18.2.1 I have few languages with Dictation enabled.

  • English (India)
  • English (UK)
  • Hindi


All of them produce the number '20' when dictated as 'Twenty' (English India), Twenty (English UK), "bees" in Hindi


Siri can learn your preferences over time based on your interactions, including the types of input you use. When you type something and need to correct it (such as switching from a numeral to a letter), Siri can adapt its predictions for future entries, improving accuracy based on the patterns you establish. Repeated corrections—such as backspacing and entering the correct characters—help Siri understand your preferences more effectively, potentially making it more responsive to your needs as you use it. However, this learning process is gradual, and it may not always be perfect right away, especially if you use different types of input or make significant changes in behavior.


Try this...


Go to Settings > General > Language & Region.

Ensure that the Region matches the one where you want the dictation behavior to align (for example, the US or UK for English).

Under Preferred Language Order, ensure English is set as the primary language if you're primarily using it.


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Voice dictation abbreviates non-English words in other languages

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