Let’s settle the debate once and for all: is it “101th” or “101st”? When it comes to ordinal numbers, the correct form is “101st.” This may come as a surprise to some, as we generally add “th” to numbers to indicate their position in a series. However, when we are dealing with ordinal numbers that end in “1,” we use “st” instead. This is a rule that applies to all numbers ending in “1” except for “11th” and “21st.”
To clarify this rule further, let’s learn a few examples. We would say “1st” (first), “21st” (twenty-first), “31st” (thirty-first), and so on. Notice that we add “st” to these numbers ending in “1.” Conversely, if we were to say “101th,” it would sound rather odd. Instead, we correctly say “101st” (one hundred and first).
Now, you might be wondering why we don’t use “th” for numbers ending in “1,” since it seems logical to do so. Well, language isn’t always logical; it follows its own set of rules, and this particular rule is known as an exception.
Exceptions are not uncommon in English, and they serve to add flavor and diversity to the language. While they may seem confusing at first, they actually make the language more interesting and expressive. In the case of ordinal numbers ending in “1,” using “st” instead of “th” adds a unique touch.
Consider this analogy: ordinal numbers are like members of a club. Most numbers are happy to follow the regular “th” rule, but numbers ending in “1” want to stand out from the crowd. They have their own special membership card and proudly display it with their unique “st.”
Now that we’ve established that “101st” is the correct form, let’s explore a few more examples to solidify our understanding. We would say “11th” (eleventh), “21st” (twenty-first), “51st” (fifty-first), “71st” (seventy-first), “81st” (eighty-first), and so on. Notice that all these numbers ending in “1” follow the “st” rule.
On the other hand, numbers ending in “2” to “9” and “0” continue to use “th” to indicate their position in a series. For instance, we say “2nd” (second), “3rd” (third), “4th” (fourth), “5th” (fifth), and so on. These numbers are content to be part of the majority, following the regular “th” pattern.
In conclusion, when it comes to ordinal numbers, “101st” is the correct form. Remember this exception when you encounter numbers ending in “1.” Language, like life, is full of surprises, and exceptions such as this one keep us on our toes. So, the next time you need to refer to the 101st item in a list, do so with confidence and use “101st” like a true language expert!