The 13th or 13rd: How to Write Dates Correctly
When it comes to writing dates, many people get confused about whether to use "13rd" or "13th". This confusion arises because of the way we pronounce dates in English. In this article, we will explore the correct way to write dates and settle the debate once and for all.
The Correct Way to Write Dates
In English, dates are written in the format "day, month, year". For example:
- 13 March 2023
- 25 December 2022
When it comes to writing the day of the month, we use ordinal numbers (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.). However, the way we pronounce these numbers can sometimes lead to confusion.
The Reason Behind the Confusion
The confusion between "13rd" and "13th" arises because of the way we pronounce the number 13. In spoken English, we pronounce 13 as "thirteen", which leads some people to write it as "13th". On the other hand, since "rd" is an abbreviated form of "ord" (meaning "order" and used to form ordinal numbers), some people argue that it should be written as "13rd".
The Verdict
So, what is the correct way to write it? The answer is: 13th.
According to grammatical rules, when writing dates, we use the ordinal number "th" for all numbers ending in 1, 2, or 3, except for 11, 12, and 13. This means that:
- 1st, 2nd, and 3rd are correct
- 11th, 12th, and 13th are also correct
Conclusion
In conclusion, when writing dates, it is correct to use "13th" instead of "13rd". This may seem like a small detail, but it's essential to get it right to maintain consistency and clarity in writing. Remember, when in doubt, always consult a reliable grammar resource or style guide to ensure you're writing dates correctly.
