4rd or 4th: Which One is Correct?
When it comes to writing ordinal numbers in English, many people get confused between "4rd" and "4th". Both forms are commonly used, but only one is grammatically correct.
What's the Difference?
The difference between "4rd" and "4th" lies in the way we form ordinal numbers in English. Ordinal numbers are used to show the position or rank of something in a sequence. In this case, we're talking about the fourth position.
In English, when we form ordinal numbers, we usually add "-th" to the end of the cardinal number. For example:
- 1st (first)
- 2nd (second)
- 3rd (third)
- 4th (fourth)
- 5th (fifth)
As you can see, the correct form for the fourth ordinal number is "4th", not "4rd".
Why is "4rd" Incorrect?
The reason "4rd" is incorrect is that it doesn't follow the standard pattern of forming ordinal numbers in English. When we add "-rd" to the end of a number, it's usually used to form a cardinal number, not an ordinal number. For example:
- 4rd is not a valid ordinal number
- 4th is the correct ordinal number
When to Use "4th"
You should use "4th" in any context where you're referring to the fourth position or rank in a sequence. For example:
- I came 4th in the race.
- She's 4th in line for the job promotion.
- This is the 4th time I've visited this city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when writing ordinal numbers in English, the correct form is "4th", not "4rd". Remember to add "-th" to the end of the cardinal number to form the ordinal number. By using the correct form, you'll be able to communicate effectively and avoid common mistakes in writing.
