Function Problems

How to Fix Excel NUMBERSTRING Function Errors (#N/A or #VALUE!)

WPS Editor Oct 1, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know why the NUMBERSTRING function is returning errors and how to find a working formula alternative for localized number conversion.

How to Fix Excel NUMBERSTRING Function Errors

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to convert numbers into localized text strings, such as Chinese or Japanese numerals, using the NUMBERSTRING function.
Observed behavior: Excel returns #N/A or #VALUE! errors because NUMBERSTRING is a discontinued legacy function that no longer works reliably.

Before you start

Ensure you know the specific language or locale (such as Chinese, Japanese, or Korean) you want to convert your numbers into, as this determines the locale ID needed for the alternative formula.

Solution 1Recommended

Replace NUMBERSTRING with the TEXT Function

Since NUMBERSTRING is obsolete, you can use the TEXT function combined with specific locale IDs to achieve the same localized number formatting.

The NUMBERSTRING function is a discontinued legacy function in modern Excel. While it might still be recognized by the software, it often fails and produces #N/A or #VALUE! errors.

The most reliable workaround is utilizing the standard TEXT function coupled with specific hexadecimal locale codes, such as [$-804] for Chinese (PRC) or [$-411] for Japanese.

Select the target cell

Click on the cell where you want the converted localized text to appear (for example, cell B2).

Enter the TEXT formula for Chinese

Type the formula =TEXT(A2,"[DBNum1][$-804]General") assuming your source number is located in cell A2, then press Enter. The number will now display as localized Chinese characters.

Modify for Japanese formatting

If you need Japanese formatting instead, change the locale ID in the formula to =TEXT(A2,"[DBNum1][$-411]General") and press Enter.

Replace NUMBERSTRING with the TEXT Function

Korean Formatting: For Korean formatting, you will need to verify and insert the appropriate hexadecimal locale code that is supported by your specific Excel version.

Use WPS Spreadsheet

Convert Numbers to Localized Text Effortlessly in WPS Office

WPS Spreadsheet provides robust support for localized number formatting and complex formulas. You can easily use the TEXT function or native cell formatting to convert numbers to Chinese, Japanese, or Korean characters without encountering legacy formula errors.

1. Open your file in WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office and open the workbook containing the numbers you want to convert.
2. Select the number cell: Click on the cell with the numerical value.
3. Access cell formatting: Right-click the cell and select 'Format Cells'. Navigate to the 'Special' category to find built-in localized number formats.
4. Apply the TEXT formula: Alternatively, you can seamlessly use the standard =TEXT(A2,"[DBNum1][$-804]General") formula directly in any blank cell.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formulas and formatting rulesRobust native support for Asian typography and localized number stringsFree, lightweight, and user-friendly interface for all your spreadsheet tasks

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the NUMBERSTRING function show a #VALUE! error?

The NUMBERSTRING function is a discontinued legacy function in modern Excel versions. Because it is no longer officially supported, it often fails to parse data correctly, resulting in #VALUE! or #N/A errors.

How can I convert numbers to Japanese text using a formula?

You can use the TEXT function combined with the Japanese locale ID. Enter the formula =TEXT(A2,"[DBNum1][$-411]General") where A2 is the cell containing your source number.

What do the [DBNum] tags mean in the TEXT formula?

The [DBNum1], [DBNum2], and [DBNum3] arguments in the formatting string determine the specific style or typography of the localized characters, such as switching between standard simplified characters and formal accounting formats.

Excel & Data Problems