Key Takeaway
- Fourth = ordinal number (4th in sequence).
- Forth = forward, onward, outward (movement or progress).
- Both are pronounced the same: /fɔːrθ/ (FORTH).
- “Fourth” is an adjective or noun; “Forth” is an adverb.
- Memory tip: Fourth = 4th in line. Forth = Forward in motion.
If you’ve ever paused mid-email wondering whether it’s “fourth” or “forth,” you’re not alone. These two words sound exactly the same, but they don’t mean the same thing.
- Fourth = number in sequence (4th).
- Forth = forward, onward, outward.
Simple in theory, but easy to get wrong in writing, especially in formal reports, academic essays, or WhatsApp messages where speed beats accuracy.
This guide will break down the difference between fourth and forth, with real examples, memory tricks, and a few practice tips to make sure you never hesitate again.
What Does “Fourth” Mean?
“Fourth” is the ordinal form of the number four.
It is used when you’re talking about sequence, order, rank, or fractions.
Examples:
- She finished fourth in the race.
- July Fourth is celebrated as Independence Day in the U.S.
- I only read the fourth chapter of the book.
- A fourth of the cake is missing.
Rule: If you can replace it with “4th,” use fourth.
What Does “Forth” Mean?
“Forth” means onward, forward, or outward.
It describes motion (physical or abstract). It is never used to indicate numbers or order.
Examples:
- He set forth on his journey.
- The lawyer put forth her best arguments.
- From this day forth, I promise to do better.
- The company expanded forth into new markets.
Rule: If the sentence is about movement, progression, or bringing something out, use forth.
Read more: Women or Woman? How to Use Each Correctly in English
Fourth vs Forth: Good vs Bad Examples
Sentence | Correct? | Why |
She came in forth place. | ❌ Wrong | “Forth” never means sequence. |
He moved fourth with the plan. | ❌ Wrong | “Fourth” doesn’t mean forward. |
She finished fourth in the competition. | ✔️ Correct | Number in sequence. |
The knight set forth on his quest. | ✔️ Correct | Movement forward. |
Pronunciation
Both words are pronounced /fɔːrθ/ (FORTH).
There is no difference in sound. The only difference is in spelling and meaning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ “July Forth” → ✔️ “July Fourth” (date, not direction).
- ❌ “And so Fourth” → ✔️ “And so Forth” (idiom meaning etc.).
- ❌ “The council will move Fourth with the project.” → ✔️ “The council will move Forth with the project.”
- ❌ “He was the Forth runner to arrive.” → ✔️ “He was the Fourth runner to arrive.”
Idioms and Expressions With “Forth”
- Set forth = to explain or present.
The leader set forth his vision for the future. - Bring forth = to produce or cause.
The speech brought forth strong emotions. - Call forth = to summon or inspire.
The event called forth an outpouring of support. - From this day forth = starting today, continuing into the future.
From this day forth, I’ll exercise daily. - And so forth = etc.
Please bring notebooks, pens, rulers, and so forth.
Rule of thumb: if it’s an idiom, it’s almost always forth, not fourth.
Business & Academic Usage
Getting this wrong in emails, reports, or exams can hurt credibility.
- Emails/Reports:
❌ “We will move fourth with the proposal.”
✔️ “We will move forth with the proposal.” - Essays/Presentations:
❌ “On the forth page, the analysis begins.”
✔️ “On the fourth page, the analysis begins.” - Formal Documents:
❌ “From this day fourth, the agreement applies.”
✔️ “From this day forth, the agreement applies.”
For students, professionals, and corporate writers, this distinction is very important. Don’t get it wrong like license or licence, which we have an entire blog on!
Memory Tips
- Fourth = 4th. Just think “number in order.”
- Forth = Forward. Both start with “for.”
- Idiom clue: “And so forth,” never “and so fourth.”
- Visual trick: Imagine the 4 in “Fourth” as part of the spelling.
Quick Practice Routine
1. Spot & Swap (2 mins daily)
Find mistakes and correct them:
- ❌ “The company moved fourth into expansion.”
- ✔️ “The company moved forth into expansion.”
2. Write 3 Sentences (3 mins)
- She was the fourth student to arrive.
- He set forth a clear plan.
- From this day forth, I’ll save money.
3. Quick Quiz (1 min)
Which is correct?
- a) The knight rode (forth/fourth).
- b) She ranked (forth/fourth).
- c) From this day (forth/fourth).
✅ Answers: a) forth, b) fourth, c) forth.
4. Writing Test: Fourth or Forth?
Fill in the blanks:
- “From this day ______, you’ll be my partner.”
- “She was the ______ person to cross the finish line.”
- “The lawyer put ______ a strong case.”
Answers: 1. forth, 2. fourth, 3. Forth.
Conclusion on Fourth vs Forth
Both fourth and forth are correct, but they mean different things.
- Fourth = order, rank, sequence (4th).
- Forth = forward, onward, outward.
In professional writing, academic essays, and business communication, mixing them up makes you look careless.
The rule is simple: if it’s about order → fourth, if it’s about movement → forth.
At Press, we go beyond fixing grammar, we help businesses and professionals write with clarity, authority, and local accuracy.
From SEO blogs to tender proposals, we make sure every word is correct and every document reflects your credibility.
Say it right, every time with the best PR agency in Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fourth vs Forth
Is “go forth” or “go fourth” correct?
Always “go forth.” “Fourth” is only used for numbers.
Do “fourth” and “forth” sound the same?
Yes, both are pronounced /fɔːrθ/.
Which is correct: “so forth” or “so fourth”?
“So forth” is correct. “So fourth” is always wrong.
Is “forth” still used in modern English?
Yes, but mostly in formal, academic, or poetic writing.
Can I use “forth” in business English?
Yes, especially in phrases like “set forth a plan” or “bring forth solutions.”
Why Do People Confuse Fourth Vs Forth?
They are homophones (same sound, different spelling).
