How to Write Forty in English?
Forty is the number that comes after thirty-nine and before forty-one. In English, there are a few rules to follow when writing out the number forty. Here's a guide to help you write forty correctly in different situations.
Spelling and Pronunciation of Forty
First of all, it's important to note that some people spell the number as "fourty" by mistake. However, the correct spelling is "forty" with a "u" after "o". In terms of pronunciation, the stress is on the first syllable, and the "o" sound is pronounced as "or". The phonetic transcription of the word is /?f??ti/.
Writing Forty in Words and Numbers
When writing out the number in words, always spell it as "forty" and not "4ty". This is true whether you're writing a formal document or an informal note. However, when it comes to writing the number in numerals, there are different conventions to follow depending on the context.
If you're writing a check or a legal document, write 40 in numerals. Also, use numerals if you're writing a list of numbers with other digits, such as 35, 37, 40, 43, and so on. In other contexts, you can write forty in words or use the numeral 40, depending on personal preference or style guide.
Forty in Idioms and Expressions
The number forty appears in a few common idioms and expressions in English. For example, "life begins at forty" is a popular saying that suggests that people become more satisfied with life after they turn forty. "Forty winks" is a whimsical phrase that means a short nap or doze, while "forty-niner" refers to a person who took part in the California gold rush of 1849.
Forty in Literature and Culture
The number forty has a symbolic significance in many cultures and religions. In the Bible, it rained for forty days and forty nights during the Great Flood, and Jesus fasted in the wilderness for forty days and forty nights. In Islam, Muhammad was forty years old when he received his first revelation. In Hinduism, forty symbolizes completeness or totality.
In literature, the number forty appears in many works of fiction and non-fiction. For example, Alexandre Dumas' classic novel "The Count of Monte Cristo" features a secret treasure that was hidden for forty years. In the dystopian novel "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury, the main character Montag has to memorize a book of the Bible that was burned because "when they ask me questions, I can say 'Forty times in the last five years I've laid hands on you.'"
Conclusion
In summary, writing the number forty in English requires attention to spelling, pronunciation, and conventions. Whether you're writing it out in words or in numerals, make sure to follow the appropriate style guide and context. Additionally, the number forty has many cultural, literary, and symbolic meanings that add depth to its significance in English usage.
