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Ordinally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ordinally

[ˈɔːrdɪnəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

mathematics, hierarchy

Ordinally refers to the manner in which items or elements are arranged or classified in an order based on their rank or position. In mathematics, it often relates to the ordering of ordinal numbers, which represent the position of elements in a sequence.

Synonyms

in order, sequentially, successively.

Examples of usage

  • The books are arranged ordinally on the shelf.
  • Ordinally, the first place is considered the highest rank.
  • In a competition, participants are often ranked ordinally.
  • The data was analyzed ordinally to identify trends.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, ordinal numbers indicate the order of elements, like in a race where we say someone is in first place.
  • Ordinally is distinct from cardinal numbers, which simply tell how many things there are, like 'three apples'.

Linguistics

  • Ordinally helps in grammar, especially in lists where we need to show items in a specific sequence, like in writing steps in a recipe.
  • It’s often used in language to organize ideas, making communication clearer by indicating order.

Education

  • In education, teaching students about ordinally can help them grasp sequences, which is important in subjects like math and science.
  • Using ordinally terms can help in organizing a story, where students learn to put events in the right order.

Pop Culture

  • Ordinal numbers are frequently seen in competitions or awards, like 'Best Picture at the Oscars' where films are ranked ordinally.
  • In sports, players are often recognized with ranks that are ordinally assigned based on their performance.

Origin of 'ordinally'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'ordinalis', meaning 'of order', which connects to its meaning in describing sequences.
  • The root 'ordo' in Latin means 'order', showing how fundamentally 'ordinally' relates to positioning.

The term 'ordinally' has its roots in the word 'ordinal', which comes from the Latin 'ordinalis', meaning 'of order' or 'this or that'. The concept of order has been essential in both linguistics and mathematics, especially when it comes to ranking and categorizing items. 'Ordinal' itself can be traced back to the late Middle English period, deriving from the Old French 'ordinal' which took influence from the Latin 'ordinare', meaning 'to put in order, arrange'. The adoption of 'ordinally' as an adverb allows for flexibility in describing the manner of ordering or ranking in various domains, including mathematics, linguistics, and everyday life.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,095, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.