How to Use Ordinal Numbers and Dates in Dutch

Understanding Ordinal Numbers in Dutch

Ordinal numbers in Dutch are used to indicate the position or order of objects and are similar to those in English. They are often used when talking about ranking, dates, and sequence.

• First - eerste
• Second - tweede
• Third - derde
• Fourth - vierde
• Fifth - vijfde

Using Dates in Dutch

In Dutch, the date format is typically written as day-month-year, which contrasts with the English format. For example, February 15, 2023, would be written as 15-02-2023.

Writing Ordinal Dates

When writing dates with ordinal numbers in Dutch, you simply add a period after the ordinal number. For example, the first of March is written as 1^e maart.

Differences in Date Formats

When reading dates, keep in mind the number placement differences. In English, it is common to say or write: March 3rd, 2023. However, in Dutch, this would be 3 maart 2023. Notice the absence of a comma in the Dutch format.

Special Cases in Dates and Ordinals

Decades and Centuries: When expressing decades or centuries, the ordinal format is followed without using a period. For instance, the twentieth century is de twintigste eeuw.

Anniversaries and Celebrations: Anniversaries also follow the ordinal number format, for instance, the fiftieth anniversary is referred to as de vijftigste verjaardag.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake learners make is directly translating their native language's date format into Dutch. Remember that the placement and punctuation are crucial for accuracy in Dutch.

Another frequent error is forgetting to use the period after the ordinal number when writing dates. Ensure you always include it to denote an ordinal. For example, 3e woensdag (third Wednesday).