How to Spell Fifth

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 19 Feb 2024

In this article, we will explore the correct spelling of a word that often confuses people. Whether you're writing a formal document or sending a quick email, knowing how to spell "fifth" correctly is essential. This will not only improve your writing but also help convey your message clearly.

Correct Spelling of Fifth

The correct spelling of the word is fifth. This word is often misspelled because of the silent "f" that many people overlook. It's important to remember that despite its pronunciation, the spelling remains fifth, referring to the ordinal number following fourth.

How can remember the correct spelling

To remember the correct spelling of fifth, note the pattern in ordinal numbers where "fifth" follows "fourth". Just like "fourth" removes the "u" when adding "th", "fifth" maintains the 'f' sound by including a silent "f". Associating it with "fourth" can help reinforce the correct spelling.

Common Spelling Mistakes

The most common spelling mistake for fifth is "fith", omitting the second "f". Another mistake is "fifh", confusing the placement of "f" and "h". These spellings are incorrect because they do not conform to the standard spelling, which includes the silent "f".

Definition and Etymology of Fifth

The word fifth is used as an adjective and a noun to refer to the ordinal form of the number five. Its use is found in both mathematical contexts and in everyday language when ordering items. The term originates from the Old English "fiftha", evolving to its current form in Middle English, where the silent "f" was added to align with other numerals' spelling.

Transcription of Fifth

In phonetic transcription, fifth is noted as /fɪfθ/. This transcription helps to convey the exact pronunciation of the word, highlighting the silent "f" and the "th" sound at the end. Phonetics can provide clarity for non-native speakers or for those studying the intricacies of English pronunciation.

Examples of Using of Fifth

Here are examples of how to use fifth in sentences:

  • He lives on the fifth floor of the apartment building.
  • This is my fifth attempt at baking a perfect pie.
  • She was the fifth person to arrive at the meeting.

FAQ

What does the word mean?
It refers to the number five in a sequence.

Words Closely Related: fourth, sixth, number, sequence.

Synonyms? 

Next after fourth.

There is no difference between American and British spelling for the word fifth. Both dialects spell the word with two "f"s, unlike some other words which may have variation such as "color" (American) versus "colour" (British).

In Which Academic Dictionaries You Can Find This Word

  1. Oxford English Dictionary.
  2. Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
  3. Cambridge Dictionary.


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