and an IELTS tutor, I often come across questions about confusing grammar rules. One such question that often arises is whether to use “24th” or “24st” when referring to a date. To put it simply, “24th” is the correct form to use in this context. Let me explain why.
In the English language, ordinal numbers are used to indicate the order of things or to describe dates. They are formed by adding a suffix to the cardinal number (e.g., “two” becomes “second”). The suffix varies depending on the spelling of the cardinal number. For most numbers, the suffix “-th” is used, as in “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. However, for numbers ending in 1, 2, and 3, the suffixes “-st,” “-nd,” and “-rd” are used respectively, as in “21st,” “22nd,” and “23rd.”
Now, let’s consider the number 24. It doesn’t end in 1, 2, or 3, so the suffix for this number is “-th.” Therefore, the correct form to use when referring to the 24th day is “24th.” Here are a few examples to illustrate this:
1. I will be traveling on the 24th of June.
2. The conference is scheduled for the 24th of July.
3. Please submit your assignments by the 24th of August.
On the other hand, “24st” is an incorrect form that doesn’t conform to the established rules of the English language. It may sound unusual or even awkward to native English speakers because it doesn’t follow the usual pattern for forming ordinal numbers. Therefore, it is important to use “24th” instead to ensure clear and effective communication.
It’s worth noting that this rule applies to all numbers ending in 4, regardless of their position within a sequence. For example, we would say “34th” and “104th” instead of “34st” and “104st.” Consistency in following these rules not only demonstrates a good command of the English language but also enhances clarity and precision in communication.
In conclusion, when referring to the 24th day or any other number ending in 4 in ordinal form, it is important to use “24th” and not “24st.” By following this simple rule, you can ensure that your language usage is accurate and in line with the established conventions of the English language. So, whether you’re writing an essay, filling out a form, or speaking in an IELTS exam, remember to use “24th” and avoid the incorrect form “24st.” Now that we’ve cleared up this particular grammar question, let’s dive into more fascinating aspects of the English language!