Fourth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
4️⃣
fourth
[ˈfɔːθ ]
Definitions
ordinal number
Coming after the third in order or place.
Synonyms
4th, following third, next in line.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fourth |
Used in general speech and writing to indicate the next item in a sequence after the third.
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| 4th |
Used primarily in informal writing, often in digital communication, spreadsheets, or quickly noting dates and positions.
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| next in line |
Used informally to indicate someone or something that is directly after the current one, particularly in queues or sequences of tasks.
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| following third |
Used to describe a position or time directly after the third one, often in a narrative or instructional context.
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Examples of usage
- It's the fourth time I've seen that movie.
- She finished in fourth place in the race.
- We are on the fourth floor of the building.
fraction
One of four equal parts of something.
Synonyms
25%, one out of four, quarter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fourth |
It can also describe a fraction or part of a whole in specific contexts.
|
| quarter |
Typically used in everyday language to describe one of four equal parts, often in time and measurement.
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| 25% |
Used in mathematics, statistics, finance, and when discussing percentages or proportions.
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| one out of four |
Used to express a part-to-whole relationship in a more conversational or informal context.
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Examples of usage
- She ate a fourth of the cake.
- He owns a fourth of the company.
- A fourth of the students chose option B.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In math, 'fourth' often represents a quarter – like one-fourth of a pizza means you have one slice out of four.
- The fourth dimension in theoretical physics refers to time, adding depth to our understanding of space and time.
Culture
- In many countries, the fourth day of July is celebrated as Independence Day in the U.S. with fireworks and parades.
- The fourth season, winter, is characterized by snow and cold weather in many parts of the world, affecting cultures and traditions.
History
- The Fourth Crusade, which took place in the early 13th century, was originally intended to conquer Muslim-controlled Jerusalem and ended up sacking Constantinople.
- In 1789, the United States Congress adopted the Fourth Amendment, guaranteeing protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Literature
- In Shakespeare’s works, the theme of the fourth wall (breaking, engaging with the audience) adds a unique layer to storytelling.
- In modern literature, 'fourth' often symbolizes change or a new beginning, as in the transition that's noticeable in character development.
Science
- In chemistry, the fourth most abundant element in the universe is carbon, essential for life as we know it.
- The phenomenon of the fourth state of matter, plasma, underlines significant processes like how the sun generates energy.
Origin of 'fourth'
The word 'fourth' originates from the Old English word 'feowertha', which is a combination of 'feower' (four) and '-tha' (suffix denoting ordinal numbers). It has been used in the English language for centuries to denote the position following the third in a sequence or one of four equal parts of something.