When it comes to ordinal numbers, it can be tricky to remember how to spell certain ones correctly. One such number is 36th. However, some people may mistakenly write it as 36nd. So, which is correct? Let’s dive in and explore the answer in detail.
First, let’s look at the rule for forming ordinal numbers. Usually, we add “-th” to the cardinal number to make it ordinal. For example, we have first, second, third, fourth, and so on. However, this rule changes when the number ends in 1, 2, or 3, except for the numbers 11, 12, and 13. In these cases, we add “-st” for 1st, “-nd” for 2nd, and “-rd” for 3rd.
Now, let’s apply this rule to the number 36. Since it doesn’t end in 1, 2, or 3, we add “-th” to make it ordinal, resulting in 36th. It’s important to note that the “t” and “h” are separated by a hyphen to indicate that they belong together as a suffix.
On the other hand, 36nd would be incorrect. The suffix “-nd” is used for the number 2 (2nd), not for 36. We don’t literally say “thirty-syxnd” in spoken English. It sounds unnatural and incorrect. By following the correct rule, we say “thirty-sixth,” which is the appropriate ordinal form of the number.
To further illustrate this, let’s look at some examples:
1. She came in 2nd place in the race. (Correct)
2. He finished 36th out of 50 participants. (Correct)
3. It was her 3rd attempt to pass the exam. (Correct)
4. The 21st of December is our anniversary. (Correct)
5. I live on the 14th floor of the building. (Correct)
Now, it’s worth mentioning that ordinal numbers are not only used for rankings but also for indicating dates, floors in a building, and many other contexts. So, it’s essential to use the correct form to ensure clear communication.
Imagine if we didn’t have a standardized rule for forming ordinal numbers. It would be like trying to communicate without using the same language. It would create confusion and make it difficult for others to understand what we mean.
In conclusion, the correct spelling is 36th, not 36nd. We add “-th” to the cardinal number 36 to make it ordinal. By following this rule, we create clear and natural-sounding ordinal numbers. So, next time you come across the number 36 in an ordinal context, remember to use 36th. Happy learning and keep up the great work on your English language journey!