So, let’s settle this age-old debate once and for all – is it “31th” or “31st”? and an IELTS tutor, I am here to shed some light on this matter. The answer is quite simple – “31st” is the correct form. But let’s dig a little deeper and explore the reasons behind this.
Firstly, let’s take a look at the basic rules of ordinal numbers. Ordinal numbers are used to indicate the position of something in a series or sequence. They are formed by adding the suffix “-th”, “-st”, “-nd”, or “-rd” to the end of the cardinal number. For example, “first” is the ordinal form of “one”, “second” is the ordinal form of “two”, and so on.
Now, when it comes to the number “31”, we follow the same rule. We add the suffix “-st” to indicate that it is in the 31st position. This is consistent with how we form ordinal numbers for other numbers ending in “1”. We say “21st” for twenty-first, “41st” for forty-first, and so on. Using “31th” would be an incorrect deviation from this pattern.
To further illustrate this point, let’s consider a few examples:
1. I was the 31st person to arrive at the party.
2. This is the 31st edition of the magazine.
3. She was born on the 31st of May.
In each of these sentences, “31st” is used to indicate the position or order of something. Replacing it with “31th” would sound awkward and incorrect.
Using the correct ordinal form is crucial not just for clarity and consistency but also for ensuring effective communication. Imagine the confusion that would arise if someone said they were born on the “31th” instead of the “31st”. By adhering to the proper usage of ordinal numbers, we can avoid such misunderstandings.
To emphasize the importance of using “31st” instead of “31th”, let’s draw an analogy. Think of ordinal numbers as street names in a town. If we don’t follow the established pattern and start randomly assigning different names to the streets, finding our way would become incredibly confusing. Similarly, using “31st” maintains consistency and allows for clear communication.
In conclusion, the correct form is “31st” when indicating the ordinal position of the number 31. This follows the established rules of ordinal numbers and is consistent with how we form ordinals for other numbers ending in “1”. By using the correct form, we ensure clarity in communication and avoid any confusion or misunderstandings. So, let’s bid farewell to “31th” and embrace the proper usage of “31st”!