Ordinal Numbers

In the English language, ordinal numbers are numbers that we use to put things into order, show a sequence or say the date.

How to Write Ordinal Numbers

Rule 1: To write ordinal numbers we just add th to a regular number.

Exceptions

Rule 2: There are several exceptions in the English language when it comes to writing ordinal numbers. Here are the ordinal numbers you need to learn by heart:

Note: In large numbers, we change only the last numeral to an ordinal number.

Numerals

Rule 3: To turn ordinal numbers into numerals, we add the last two letters of the written number to the numeral.

Usage

Rule 4: We use ordinal numbers to say the date.

Rule 5: We use ordinal numbers to make lists and enumerations or to put things in an order.

Rule 6: In titles (e.g., kings and queens), ordinal numbers are written as Roman numerals. In Spoken English, we add the definite article before the ordinal number:

Note: In spoken English, we add the definite article the before the ordinal number.

Ordinal Numbers: An Overview

Here is a brief overview of the English ordinal numbers, both numeral and spelled out.