Unit 7.1

Ordinal numbers

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

It’s my second time in Sweden.
He was the first on the list.
Our house is the fourth on the left.

Use

We use ordinal numbers to show the position of something.

Unlike cardinal numbers, which are used to express the quantity of something, they express numerical sequences.

Summary

Ordinal numbers differ from cardinal numbers as they are used to position elements on a list. 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 that I’m in Spain (fifth = ordinal number).
♦ “I’ve been to Spain five times.” = The total number of times I’m in Spain (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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