Ordinal numbers in German

In this lesson, we will learn how to form ordinal numbers in German. Ordinal numbers indicate order and are commonly used. Let’s get started!

1. Formation of ordinal numbers from 1 to 19

Ordinal numbers from one to nineteen are mainly formed by adding the suffix “-te” to the cardinal number. However, there are some exceptions that we need to pay attention to.

• The numbers one, three, seven, and eight do not end with “-te” in the ordinal form but have unique versions.

2. Formation of ordinal numbers from 20 onwards

For numbers from twenty onwards, you simply add “-ste” to form the ordinal number. Here are the corresponding examples:

• There are no exceptions in forming ordinal numbers from 20 onwards.

3. Usage of ordinal numbers in sentences

Ordinal numbers can function as adjectives and need to be written correctly:

• Lowercase letters:
  When used with a noun, they are written in lowercase:
  Ich wohne im dritten Stock.
  (“I live on the third floor.”)

• Uppercase letters:
  When standing alone or used as capitalized adjectives, they are written with a capital letter:
  Ich bin immer die Erste!
  (“I am always the first one!”)

4. Ordinal numbers in date expressions

Ordinal numbers often appear in date expressions and can be presented in various forms:

• Numeric form:
  Heute ist der 15. August.
  (“Today is the 15th of August.”)
• Digits format:
  Heute ist 15.08.
  (“Today is 15.08.”)
• Fully written out:
  Heute ist der fünfzehnte August.
  (“Today is the fifteenth of August.”)

5. Examples of usage

An ordinal number can also be used in a sentence to indicate a sequence or to specify something:

• Am zwölften September fahre ich nach Berlin.
  (“I am going to Berlin on the twelfth of September.”)