Fourthly: meaning, definitions and examples

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fourthly

 

[ ˈfɔːrθli ]

Adverb
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

Translations of the word "fourthly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 quarto

🇮🇳 चौथी

🇩🇪 viertens

🇮🇩 keempat

🇺🇦 четвертий

🇵🇱 czwarty

🇯🇵 第四

🇫🇷 quatrièmement

🇪🇸 cuarto

🇹🇷 dördüncü

🇰🇷 넷째

🇸🇦 الرابع

🇨🇿 čtvrtý

🇸🇰 štvrtý

🇨🇳 第四

🇸🇮 četrti

🇮🇸 fjórði

🇰🇿 төртінші

🇬🇪 მეოთხე

🇦🇿 dördüncü

🇲🇽 cuarto

Etymology

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.