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Understanding Russian Ordinal Numbers
Ordinal numbers in Russian are used to show the order of things. For example, when you want to say 'first', 'second', or 'third', you use ordinal numbers.
Formation of Ordinal Numbers
Important Points
Ordinal numbers are formed from cardinal numbers, which are the numbers you use to count things.
The endings of ordinal numbers change based on gender, number, and case.
The basic form of ordinal numbers is masculine singular nominative.
Basic Ordinal Numbers
Important Points
First - первый
Second - второй
Third - третий
Fourth - четвёртый
Fifth - пятый
These are the basic ordinal numbers. You will notice that they have different endings, which change based on gender, number, and case.
Changing Endings
In Russian, the endings of ordinal numbers change to match the gender of the noun they describe. Masculine nouns use one ending, feminine nouns use another, and neuter nouns use a third.
Important Points
Masculine: первый (first)
Feminine: первая (first)
Neuter: первое (first)
Examples
Это первый день. (This is the first day.)
Она первая на очереди. (She is first in line.)
Это первое задание. (This is the first task.)
Ordinal Numbers in Sentences
When using ordinal numbers in sentences, make sure they agree with the nouns they describe. This includes matching the gender, number, and case.
Examples
У меня второй урок. (I have the second lesson.)
Она купила третью книгу. (She bought the third book.)
Мы живём на четвёртом этаже. (We live on the fourth floor.)
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