When we use dates and mention specific days, we follow simple rules from English language to make sure our message is clear and correct. Have you ever wondered how to correctly write dates when you are referring to them in thirties, like the 30th day of the month?
The correct way to write the ordinal form of thirty is 30th, not 30rd. When forming ordinals in English, the last two letters of the written word determine the ending. For example, “thirty” ends in “y,” but when we change it to an ordinal, it becomes “thirtieth,” hence 30th.
Consider the number 3, which becomes 3rd because “third” ends in “rd.” However, this rule changes as numbers grow, particularly when the last numeral is zero. The correct ordinal form always ends with “th” in these cases, making 30th the proper usage.
Understanding Ordinal Numbers
Let’s first understand what ordinal numbers are. These are numbers that show position or order in a sequence, like first, second, and third. They are different from cardinal numbers that show quantity, like one, two, or three.
How Do We Form Ordinal Numbers?
Generally, we make ordinal numbers by adding -th, -st, -nd, and -rd to the cardinal numbers. Here’s how it works:
- We add -st to numbers that end in 1 (except for ’11’). For example, 1st, 21st, 31st.
- We add -nd to numbers that end in 2 (except for ’12’). So, it’s 2nd, 22nd.
- We add -rd to numbers that end in 3 (except for ’13’). For example, 3rd, 23rd.
- For most other numbers, we use -th. This includes 11th, 12th, 13th, and most numbers like 4th, 5th, 6th, etc., and yes, 30th.
It’s pretty straightforward, right? Once you know the last digit of the number, you can decide which ending to use.
Choosing Between 30th and 30rd
When writing the ordinal numeral for 30, you might think about how to use the right suffix. Here’s where it’s easy to get confused. Think about it – the last letter of thirty is y, but the important thing here is the last number, which is 0.
Do we usually say zeroth when we’re ordering numbers? Not really. Instead, zero in ordinal numbers takes the standard -th ending. This is why when you refer to the 30th of the month, it takes the -th ending, making it “30th.” So, applying this rule, what do you think? Is it 30th or 30rd?
This might make you wonder why it’s not 30rd as we use 3rd for the third day of the month. Here’s where the distinction lies. The suffix isn’t determined by the first digit in the number, but rather the last digit. Since 30 ends in zero, it takes the -th.
Usage of 30th in Sentences
Now that we know the correct usage, let’s see it applied in everyday situations. Here are a few examples:
- My birthday is on the 30th of June.
- The meeting has been rescheduled to the 30th.
- He’s planning a big celebration for his 30th anniversary.
Each of these scenarios uses “30th” because they are referring to an ordinal position in a sequence, whether that’s a date or an anniversary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using incorrect suffixes with ordinal numbers is a common slip. For example, saying “the 23st of April” instead of “the 23rd of April” is an easy mistake. Here, the key is to focus on the last digit!
What do you think this helps you in everyday communication? Using ordinal numbers correctly not only makes your English sound better, but it also ensures that the message you are trying to convey is clear and correctly understood. Isn’t it better to say things right and be understood the first time?
Always double-check whether the number ends in 1, 2, 3, or other digits. This simple check will help you to use the correct ordinal form, making your communication smooth and professional.
In conclusion, always remember, it’s 30th, not 30rd. This small detail will keep your dates, invitations, and announcements correct and polished.
Are you now ready to mark your calendars correctly for every 30th of the month?
