Understanding the Difference between 12nd and 12th
When writing dates or ordinal numbers, it's not uncommon to see both "12nd" and "12th" used. However, only one of them is correct.
What's the Difference?
The main difference between "12nd" and "12th" lies in the suffix used to indicate the ordinal position.
- 12nd is an incorrect formation, as it uses the suffix "-nd" which is typically used for numbers ending in 1 (e.g., 1st, 21st, 31st).
- 12th, on the other hand, is the correct formation, as it uses the suffix "-th" which is used for numbers ending in 2, 3, or other numbers (e.g., 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 12th).
When to Use -th and -nd?
To determine whether to use the suffix "-th" or "-nd", consider the following rules:
- Use -th for numbers ending in 2, 3, or other numbers (e.g., 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 12th).
- Use -nd only for numbers ending in 1 (e.g., 1st, 21st, 31st).
Examples and Exceptions
Here are some examples to illustrate the correct usage:
- 12th of March (correct)
- 12nd of March (incorrect)
- 1st of April (correct)
- 1th of April (incorrect)
One exception to note is that some style guides, such as the AP Stylebook, recommend using "1st" and "2nd" in place of "first" and "second" for informal writing. However, in formal writing, such as academic or professional settings, it's best to stick with the traditional suffixes.
In Conclusion
In summary, when writing ordinal numbers, use -th for numbers ending in 2, 3, or other numbers, and -nd only for numbers ending in 1. By following these simple rules, you can ensure that your writing is accurate and consistent.
