on the third

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the third" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the third instance of something within a given time frame, usually a month or year. For example, "We are meeting on the third of May".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Now bring on the third installment already.

TechCrunch

This one is on the third island.

WikiHow

On the third one, Rezaï double-faulted.

The New York Times - Sports

On the third night, no one came.

The New York Times

He's on the third floor.

The New Yorker

Comment on the Third Edition.

The New Yorker

His office is on the third floor.

The New Yorker

"Jerusalem" was triumphant on the third ballot.

The New York Times

Our rooms were on the third floor.

The New York Times - Magazine

Bedrooms are on the third floor.

The New York Times

On the third attempt, he dislodged it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the third" to refer to a date, ensure clarity by specifying the month or context to avoid ambiguity. For instance, say "on the third of July" rather than just "on the third".

Common error

Avoid using "on three" instead of "on the third". "Third" is the ordinal number that indicates position in a sequence, whereas "three" is a cardinal number indicating quantity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the third" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying time, position, or sequence. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the third" is a versatile phrase functioning as an adverbial phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across a wide range of contexts, from news and media to scientific publications and everyday conversation. To ensure clarity, specify the context when referring to a date and avoid confusing it with cardinal numbers. Consider alternatives like "thirdly" for more formal settings. Understanding these nuances will help you use "on the third" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thirdly

A single-word adverb that directly indicates the third item in a sequence, offering a more concise alternative.

in third place

Specifies a ranking or position in a competition or ordered list.

at the third attempt

Highlights the number of tries taken to achieve something.

the third time

Refers to the occasion something happens for the third time.

as the third

Used to introduce the third element in a series or list.

number three

A simple way to refer to the third item in a numbered list or sequence.

on third base

A baseball term that refers to being in the third position during the play.

the third instance

Refers to the specific occurrence of something happening for the third time.

at the third milestone

Emphasizes reaching a specific point in a progression.

in the third position

Highlights a ranking or spot within a specific arrangement.

FAQs

How do I properly use "on the third" in a sentence?

Use "on the third" to indicate the third instance of something or a specific date. For example, "The meeting is scheduled "on the third of May"", or "On the third attempt, he succeeded".

What are some alternatives to saying "on the third"?

Depending on the context, you could use "thirdly", "in third place", or "at the third attempt".

Is it more formal to say "on the third" or "thirdly"?

"Thirdly" is generally considered more formal and is often used in structured lists or arguments. "On the third" is more neutral and can be used in various contexts.

What's the difference between "on the third" and "the third time"?

"On the third" is often used to specify a date or the third item in a sequence. "The third time" refers specifically to an event happening for the third occasion.