When it comes to numbers and ordinal indicators, it is not uncommon for confusion to arise among English learners as to how to correctly use them. One common question that often emerges is whether to write “34rd” or “34th”. The answer is quite simple, and in this article, I will provide a clear explanation along with a list of examples to help you understand which form is correct.
The correct form is “34th”, not “34rd”. Ordinal indicators are suffixes added to numbers to show their position in a sequence or order. They typically follow cardinal numbers, which indicate quantity or how many. For example, “34” is a cardinal number, indicating the quantity of something, while “34th” is an ordinal number, indicating the position of something in a sequence.
To further illustrate this, let’s consider some examples. Suppose we are talking about a race and there are 50 runners. If we want to refer to the runner who finishes in 34th place, we would say “the 34th runner” and not “the 34rd runner”. The ordinal indicator “th” is used to show that the number 34 is the 34th runner in the sequence.
Another example could be in the context of dates. If we want to refer to the date of October 34th, we would correctly write it as “October 34th”. “34th” indicates that this date is the 34th day of October. On the other hand, if we were to write “October 34rd”, it would be grammatically incorrect and might confuse the reader.
It is crucial to understand that ordinal numbers, like “34th”, follow specific rules in English. Most ordinal numbers, including those ending in “th”, are formed by adding the suffix “-th” to the cardinal number. However, there can be a few exceptions to this rule. For instance, the numbers 1, 2, and 3 have irregular forms: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. These irregular forms are deeply ingrained in the language, and it is essential to memorize them.
In summary, “34th” is the correct form to indicate the ordinal number corresponding to the cardinal number 34. Whether you are referring to positions in a race, dates, or any other sequential order, the suffix “-th” should be added to the cardinal number to form the correct ordinal number. Remember to use “34th” instead of “34rd” to ensure clear and accurate communication.
Next time you come across a situation where you need to use an ordinal number, ask yourself: is it the 34th, or is it the 34rd? By understanding the rules and examples provided, you can confidently choose the correct form and avoid any confusion. Keep in mind that mastering English grammar takes practice, so keep exploring and learning more to enhance your language skills.