Ordinal number (linguistics)

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In linguistics, ordinal numbers are the words representing the rank of a number with respect to some order, in particular order or position (i.e. first, second, third, etc.). Its use may refer to size, importance, chronology, etc. They are adjectives and precede the nouns they are modifying.

They are different from the cardinal numbers (one, two, three, etc.) referring to the quantity.

Ordinal numbers are alternatively written in English with numerals and letter suffixes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 11th, 21st, 477th, etc. Dates normally omit the suffix, although it is nevertheless pronounced. For examples: 4 July 1776 (pronounced "the fourth of July ... "); July 4, 1776, ("July fourth ..."); and (Metric) 1776 July 4 ("... July fourth"). When written out in full with "of", however, the suffix is retained: the 4th of July.

In American Sign Language, the ordinal numbers 1 through 9 are formed with gestures similar to those for cardinal numbers with the addition of a small twist of the wrist.

Ordinal number (linguistics)

See also