crossword ordinal number – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue 'crossword ordinal number' and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a complete list of possible answers, carefully categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you understand the solution and enhance your crossword solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword ordinal number" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FIRST: Indicates the initial position or rank.
THIRD: Signifies the position following the second.
FIFTH: Refers to the position after the fourth.
TENTH: Describes the position number ten.
SIXTH: The position after fifth.
6 Letters
SECOND: Denotes the position after the first.
FOURTH: Marks the position after the third.
EIGHTH: The position after seventh.
7 Letters
SEVENTH: The ordinal number for seven.
TWELFTH: The ordinal number following eleventh.
More About "crossword ordinal number"
Ordinal numbers are a staple in crosswords due to their clear definition and common usage in everyday language. They indicate position in a sequence, such as "first," "second," "third," and so on. In puzzles, clues referencing ordinal numbers can be straightforward, like "The winner's place," or more abstract, requiring solvers to think about sequence, order, or even historical events tied to a specific numbered occurrence.
Crossword setters often use various phrasing to hint at an ordinal number, avoiding direct mention to increase the challenge. For instance, a clue might refer to "initial," "next in line," "penultimate," or "final" to lead you to the correct ordinal answer. Understanding the context and the common ways these numbers are expressed in English is key to solving such clues efficiently.
While most ordinal number answers in crosswords are spelled out (e.g., FIFTH, TENTH), occasionally, a clue might call for a numeral followed by "ST," "ND," "RD," or "TH" (e.g., 1ST). However, the preference is almost always for the full word, especially in standard British and American cryptic or general knowledge crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always consider the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the puzzle. An ordinal number might be part of a larger phrase or a common idiom.
- Number vs. Word: Carefully read the clue to determine if it implies a numeral (less common) or a spelled-out word. Most "ordinal number" clues expect words like FIRST or SECOND.
- Check for Common Pairs: Some ordinal numbers commonly appear with specific words. For example, "first aid," "second nature," "third degree," or "fifth column." These common phrases can often provide a strong hint.
- Length Constraints are Your Best Guide: The number of letters provided in the grid is your most reliable helper. If you think of "FIRST" but the space is for 6 letters, reconsider for "SECOND" or "FOURTH".
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ordinal number in a crossword context?
An ordinal number indicates position or order, such as 'first', 'second', 'third', etc. In crosswords, clues often refer to these positions without explicitly stating 'ordinal number', requiring you to infer the numerical order.
How do crossword setters clue ordinal numbers?
Setters might use phrases like 'initial position', 'subsequent rank', 'following the second', 'winner's place', or refer to a specific number's place in a sequence. Sometimes, they might even use an adjective that implies order, like 'leading' or 'trailing'.
Are ordinal numbers always spelled out in crosswords?
Generally, yes. While some niche puzzles might use numerical abbreviations (like '1ST'), the most common form in standard crosswords is the fully spelled-out word like FIRST, SECOND, or THIRD. Always assume the spelled-out form unless the clue strongly suggests otherwise.