What Are Ordinal Numbers?
Ordinal Numbers, a term we often come across but rarely realize their significance in our daily life. But what are ordinal numbers? Well, they are numbers that depict position or order in a series. Terms like 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th are all ordinal numbers.
Before we step into the discussion about the proper use of 3rd or 3th, let’s dig a bit deeper into the subject.
Understanding Ordinal Numbers
The magical world of numbers is divided distinctly into two territories – Cardinal and Ordinal. While cardinal numbers (1,2,3,4,5, etc.) indicate quantity, ordinal numbers lay out the arrangement or order of things.
To give you a clearer understanding, imagine you took part in a race and landed the second position. Here “second” is an ordinal number; it illustrates your ranking in the game.
Breaking Down Ordinal Numbers
Ordinal numbers in English are quite straightforward. They typically end with ‘st’, ‘nd’, ‘rd’, or ‘th’. The following guide simplifies the concept:
- The words ‘first’, ‘second’, and ‘third’ represent 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, respectively.
- From 4th onwards, numbers end with ‘th’ such as 4th (fourth), 5th (fifth), 6th (sixth), and so on. The trend continues except for some cases as in 21st (twenty-first), 22nd (twenty-second), and 23rd (twenty-third). Following these exceptions, we get back to ‘th’, for example, 24th (twenty-fourth).
The Confusion between 3rd and 3th
While the basic rule of ordinal numbers is quite simple, a common problem learners often have is distinguishing between ‘3rd’ and ‘3th’. So, what is correct – 3rd or 3th?
Well, in accordance with the standard rule of English ordinal numbers, 3 is denoted by ‘3rd’ (third), and not ‘3th’. Therefore, we suggest that enunciation and practice are keys to master such distinctions.
Using Ordinal Numbers Effectively
Using ordinal numbers is a walk in the park once you remember the basic structure. For instance:
- I live on the 2nd floor of the building.
- My son stood 1st in the spelling competition.
- The 3rd chapter of the book is intriguing.
They also play an important role when mentioning dates in English.
For example: Her birthday falls on the 15th of July.
Wrapping Up
Conquering the art of using ordinal numbers can significantly peppermint your language skill – especially if you are learning English as a second language. Remember, learning is a journey, not a race. So go easy on yourself and practice diligently.
The irritating confusion between 3rd or 3th is just a speck of challenge on this exciting path. We hope our guide has helped to uncomplicate your learning process.
Stay tuned with us for more such clarifications and deepen your understanding of the English Language. Good luck to all!
Download CHATMUNK for free to practice speaking in foreign languages