a third soldier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a third soldier" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an additional soldier in a group of soldiers, specifically the one who is third in number or order. Example: "In the battle, a third soldier emerged from the ranks to assist his comrades."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

A third soldier is injured.

Independent

A third soldier stepped on his skull.

The New Yorker

A third soldier pleaded guilty to being an accessory.

The New York Times

"At least his ears are ringing," a third soldier said.

The New York Times

An hour later, a third soldier who was helping secure the area, Pfc.

The New York Times

Byron W. Fouty were captured, along with a third soldier, Pfc.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

A fourth soldier was injured.

The Guardian

A fourth soldier was injured, she said.

The New York Times

A second soldier was wounded by gunfire in Ramallah.

The New York Times

A second soldier, Andrew Holmes, then shot the boy.

The Guardian

A second soldier grabbed the knife and threw it aside.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a third soldier", ensure the context clearly establishes that there are at least two other soldiers already mentioned or implied. This helps avoid confusion about who the "third soldier" is in relation to.

Common error

Avoid using "a third soldier" if only one soldier has been mentioned previously. Instead, use "another soldier" or "an additional soldier" to introduce the second or subsequent soldier.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a third soldier" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its role in identifying a specific soldier within a group.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a third soldier" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase, primarily found in news and media contexts. According to Ludwig, it is used to refer to an additional soldier in a group of soldiers, specifically when two other soldiers have already been mentioned or implied. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context clearly establishes the presence of the other soldiers to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "another soldier" or "an additional soldier" can be used if the specific numerical position isn't crucial. Remembering these tips will help you employ the phrase effectively and accurately in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

another soldier

This alternative is a more general way to refer to an additional soldier.

a further soldier

This alternative implies an additional soldier beyond the initial two.

an additional soldier

This alternative emphasizes the addition of one more soldier.

one more soldier

This alternative is a simple and direct way to indicate an additional soldier.

a soldier as well

This alternative highlights that the soldier is included in addition to others.

a different soldier

This alternative suggests a distinction from the other soldiers mentioned.

a supplementary soldier

This alternative emphasizes the role of the soldier as providing extra support.

the other soldier

This alternative works only if the total number of soldiers is known to be three.

a remaining soldier

This alternative highlights that this soldier is part of a limited group.

an extra soldier

This alternative suggests that the soldier may not have been initially planned for.

FAQs

How do I use "a third soldier" in a sentence?

Use "a third soldier" to refer to an additional soldier after two have already been mentioned. For instance, "Two soldiers secured the perimeter, and "a third soldier" provided cover fire."

What can I say instead of "a third soldier"?

You can use alternatives like "another soldier", "an additional soldier", or "a further soldier" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a third soldier" if only one soldier has been mentioned before?

No, if only one soldier has been mentioned, it's more appropriate to use phrases like "a second soldier" or "another soldier".

What's the difference between "a third soldier" and "another soldier"?

"A third soldier" implies that you've already mentioned two soldiers. "Another soldier" simply means an additional soldier, without specifying their numerical position.