Fourth: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in general speech and writing to indicate the next item in a sequence after the third.

• The fourth book in the series was my favorite
• She is the fourth child in her family

Used primarily in informal writing, often in digital communication, spreadsheets, or quickly noting dates and positions.

• The meeting is scheduled for the 4th of July
• He came in 4th place in the competition

Used informally to indicate someone or something that is directly after the current one, particularly in queues or sequences of tasks.

• She is next in line for promotion
• Who is next in line to speak?

Used to describe a position or time directly after the third one, often in a narrative or instructional context.

• The task that comes following third is crucial
• The fourth player, following third in the lineup, had to perform exceptionally well

It can also describe a fraction or part of a whole in specific contexts.

• He ate the fourth slice of the pizza
• The test is worth one fourth of your final grade

Typically used in everyday language to describe one of four equal parts, often in time and measurement.

• He paid a quarter of the amount up front
• We have a quarter of an hour left before the meeting starts

Used in mathematics, statistics, finance, and when discussing percentages or proportions.

• This year, the company's revenue increased by 25%
• We need to cut expenses by 25% to balance the budget

Used to express a part-to-whole relationship in a more conversational or informal context.

• One out of four students failed the exam
• One out of four people experiences anxiety at some point