When it comes to writing dates, it is vital to get the order of the day correct. While it may seem like a simple task, there is one particular issue that often confuses English learners and even native speakers alike – the use of “23rd” or “23th.” Which of these forms is correct? Let’s learn this matter and clear up any doubts.
The correct form to use is “23rd.” When we write dates, we typically add the proper suffix to the number for the day. For ordinal numbers ending in “1,” we add “st,” for those ending in “2,” we add “nd,” and for those ending in “3,” we add “rd.” For all other days, we use “th.” So, when we refer to the 23rd day of the month, we would write it as “23rd.”
Let me provide a few examples to illustrate this point. If today is the 23rd of September, we would write it as “September 23rd.” Similarly, if someone’s birthday falls on the 23rd of May, we would write it as “May 23rd.” This is the standard and commonly accepted way of formatting dates in English writing.
Now, you might be wondering why we don’t use “23th” instead. The explanation is quite simple. The use of “th” is a general suffix for ordinal numbers, except for the numbers ending in 1, 2, and 3. It seems that English language traditions have evolved this way, and as language users, we follow these conventions.
To further emphasize this point, let’s consider other ordinal numbers. If we refer to the 1st day of the month, we add “st” as the suffix, as in “1st.” For the 2nd day, we use “nd,” as in “2nd.” For the 3rd day, we use “rd,” as mentioned earlier, and for all other days, we use “th.” For example, if today is the 5th day of the month, we write it as “5th.”
Language conventions play a significant role in maintaining consistency and clarity. They help us understand each other efficiently and reduce confusion. Therefore, using “23rd” instead of “23th” is a way of adhering to these conventions and ensuring effective communication.
In conclusion, when writing dates and referring to the 23rd day of the month, we use the form “23rd.” This follows the standard English grammar rule for ordinal numbers and helps maintain consistency and clarity in our writing. Remember, language conventions exist for a reason, and by following them, we enhance our ability to communicate effectively.