fourthly

Fourthly is an English adverb used to introduce the fourth item in a sequence, argument, or list. It is typically used after firstly, secondly, and thirdly, especially in formal or rhetorical writing. In modern prose, its use is often limited to contexts that reproduce or reference older stylistic conventions.

The word is formed by adding the suffix -ly to the ordinal adjective fourth. It belongs to a family of ordinal adverbs such as firstly, secondly, thirdly, and fifthly, which historically Mark the order of points in a discussion or argument. Its etymology reflects a period when enumerated lists were commonly presented with explicit ordinals.

Usage and style vary by region and context. Fourthly appears most often in British English, in legal drafting, public speaking, or academic writing that preserves traditional rhetorical patterns. In many contemporary American texts, writers prefer more concise alternatives, such as “the fourth point,” “the fourth,” or “in the fourth place,” and may forego the adverbial form altogether. Punctuation commonly places a comma after the word (Fourthly, ...), though sentence structure can influence punctuation choices, including the use of a colon in lists or headings.

Guidance on usage is mixed. Some style guides discourage the repetitive use of firstly, secondly, thirdly, and fourthly as overly formal or archaic; others retain them for consistency in formal arguments. When used, it is helpful to maintain parallel form with the preceding points and to avoid overuse, preferring clearer, more direct phrasing when possible.