42 Ordinal Numbers
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Introduction
Ordinal numbers express numerical sequences, positioning elements in a list.
Form
Ordinal numbers are usually preceded by the definite article the and they are usually placed after the verb.
Ordinal numbers are made by adding -th* to the cardinal numbers (1 – 10):
- 1st* – First
- 2nd* – Second
- 3rd* – Third
- 4th – Fourth
- 5th* – Fifth
- 6th – Sixth
- 7th – Seventh
- 8th* – Eighth
- 9th* – Ninth
- 10th – Tenth
*The exceptions (also twelve = twelfth).
Example
- He was the first on the list. / He was the 1st on the list.
- It’s my second time in Sweden. / It’s my 2nd time in Sweden.
- I want the third cake. / I want the 3rd cake.
Use
We use ordinal numbers to express the position of something in a sequence. Unlike cardinal numbers, which are used to express the quantity of something.
Summary
Ordinal numbers are used to position elements in a sequential order.
Ordinal numbers are made by adding -th to the cardinal numbers: first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth.
For example:
— “It’s my fifth time in Spain.” = This is the current number of times I have visited Spain and I am there now (fifth = ordinal number).
♦ “I’ve been to Spain five times.” = The total number of times I visited Spain and I am not there anymore (five = cardinal number).
NOTE: 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9 and 12 are exceptions (as their ordinal numbers don’t follow the general formation rule: first, second, third, fifth, eighth, ninth and twelfth).
Let’s revise this content within the {Form} section. Take a look at the {Example} section that shows its use within a context.
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