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Fourthly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fourthly

[ˈfɔːrθli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

ordering sequence

Fourthly is used to introduce the fourth point or item in a list or series. It is part of a structure that denotes a sequential order, similar to first, second, and thirdly. The use of 'fourthly' is often found in formal or academic writing, where enumerating points clearly is essential. It is less common in everyday conversation but provides clarity in presentations or written documents.

Synonyms

fourth.

Examples of usage

  • Fourthly, we need to consider the financial implications.
  • In my argument, fourthly, I will discuss the environmental impact.
  • The report outlines several points: firstly, the objectives; secondly, the methods; thirdly, the outcomes; and, fourthly, the recommendations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Grammar

  • Fourthly is used less frequently compared to its predecessors like firstly, secondly, and thirdly, often replaced by simply listing the items.
  • It typically appears in formal writing, helping to maintain clarity and differentiate between numbered points.
  • In contemporary usage, some writers prefer more fluid phrasing, like 'the fourth point' instead of using 'fourthly.'

Mathematics

  • The concept of 'fourth' has significance in math, often seen in properties of shapes (like quadrilaterals) and order (like sequences).
  • To be 'fourth' implies being in a sequence that follows three prior items, which is vital in many counting systems.
  • In advanced mathematics, 'fourthly' can refer to powers, like raising a number to the fourth power (x^4) in algebra.

Linguistics

  • The use of ordinal numbers such as fourthly reflects how language evolves to organize and clarify thoughts.
  • Language scholars note that 'fourthly' is an example of how complex ideas can be broken down into sequential parts for better understanding.
  • The pattern of ordinal construction is seen across many languages, showing a common need to categorize information.

Cultural Usage

  • 'Fourthly' might feature prominently in speeches, essays, and academic writings where structure is essential.
  • In some cultures, formal speech relies on numbered points to convey arguments or ideas, making terms like 'fourthly' more relevant.
  • Certain professions, like law and education, might favor the use of 'fourthly' to maintain formal coherence in presentations.

Origin of 'fourthly'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'fourthly' is a combination of 'fourth,' which comes from the Old English 'fēorða,' meaning the number four.
  • It is constructed by adding the suffix '-ly,' which typically transforms nouns into adverbs, indicating manner or sequence.
  • This kind of number word is derived from a tradition of English that often places '-ly' after ordinal numbers.

The term 'fourthly' is derived from the base word 'fourth', which has its roots in Old English 'feorða', meaning 'fourth' or 'the number four in a series'. The '-ly' suffix is commonly used in English to form adverbs from adjectives or numerals. This adverbial form allows for a clear, structured way to indicate the order of points in a discussion. While 'fourthly' is not as frequently used as its predecessors (firstly, secondly, thirdly), it retains relevance in contexts where precise enumeration is necessary. The inception of this adverb can also be traced back to Middle English, demonstrating a long-standing tradition in the English language of using evident numerical order in discourse. Its use is particularly noted in formal documents and presentations, while colloquial forms tend to simplify such structures.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,881, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.