In this lesson, we will explore Ordinal Numbers. These are numbers that tell us the position or order of things, such as “first,” “second,” or “third.” By the end of this lesson, you’ll be able to use ordinal numbers confidently in everyday conversations. Let’s get started!
What Are Ordinal Numbers?
Ordinal numbers are used to show the order or position of something in a sequence. For example:
- “She finished first in the race.”
- “Today is my third day in London.”
They are different from cardinal numbers, which are used for counting (e.g., one, two, three).
Let’s break it down further with examples and pronunciation practice.
How to Form Ordinal Numbers
Most ordinal numbers are formed by adding -th to the cardinal number. However, there are some exceptions. Here’s how they work:
1. Regular Ordinal Numbers
For most numbers, simply add -th:
| Cardinal Number | Ordinal Number | Pronunciation Example |
|---|---|---|
| four | fourth | fourth |
| six | sixth | sixth |
| seven | seventh | seventh |
| eight | eighth | eighth |
2. Irregular Ordinal Numbers
Some numbers have special forms:
| Cardinal Number | Ordinal Number | Pronunciation Example |
|---|---|---|
| one | first | first |
| two | second | second |
| three | third | third |
| five | fifth | fifth |
| twelve | twelfth | twelfth |
3. Numbers Ending in -y
When a number ends in -y, change the -y to -ie before adding -th:
| Cardinal Number | Ordinal Number | Pronunciation Example |
|---|---|---|
| twenty | twentieth | twentieth |
| thirty | thirtieth | thirtieth |
Examples in Sentences
Here are some examples of how to use ordinal numbers in sentences:
- My birthday is on the fifth of June.
- She lives on the tenth floor.
- This is my second time visiting Paris.
- He won the first prize in the competition.
Practice Game
Key Takeaways
- Ordinal numbers are used to indicate order or position.
- Most ordinal numbers are formed by adding -th, but there are exceptions like “first,” “second,” and “third.”
- Practice using ordinal numbers in sentences to improve your fluency.