Hello! I have a doubt regarding how to write dates in English. I've seen different ways of doing it, so I'm confused. In the website grammarly this is said: (link: https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how

Jivana Drenth

Professional Teacher

Hello! I have a doubt regarding how to write dates in English. I've seen different ways of doing it, so I'm confused. In the website grammarly this is said: (link: https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-dates/?gclid=CjwKCAiAp4KCBhB6EiwAxRxbpKQLCZ_fk2nO8IojSKzdjLko0kZ8YFo1utcrcYNaOEFl5k8aJFknHhoCOVAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) "When referring to a specific date in the month-day date format, use cardinal numbers (one, two, three) rather than ordinal numbers (first, second, third)." I learnt that we should use ordinal numbers when reffering to dates, and I've seen it in many videos and articles. However, I've seen cardinal numbers, too. Are both right? If I write "May 5th, 2021", is it correct or wrong? Thanks in advance!

Mar 5, 2021 4:04 AM

Answers · 10

I'm guessing that because you are in Europe, you learnt British/Commonwealth englush. Grammarly presumably teaches American english or at least favours their conventions.

March 5, 2021

This is correct. In the U.S. you would almost ALWAYS write: May 4, 2021. You would speak out loud :”May 4th, 2021” even if it was written the other way. For example you would SAY: “Can i make an appointment for May 4th 2021?” and the Secretary would write it as: May 4, 2021. (And if you are a Star Wars fan you would say, “May the 4th be with you!”)

March 5, 2021

In the US, you could say or write "May 5" or "May fifth." You can also say "on the fifth of May". They are all perfectly acceptable. The British reverse the order though, so "5 May". I think the would still say "May fifth" though. Hopefully a British person can reply to clarify.

March 5, 2021

The resource that I am using to answer this question is my own personal experience as an American, in my daily use. I would say/write: Today is May 5th... The party is on May 5th... I would write (not say): May 5, 2021 I would say (not write): May 5th, 2021

March 5, 2021

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