Basic Details
Word: Numerical
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: To do with numbers, or shown in numbers.
Synonyms: numeric, arithmetical
How to Spell Numerical
Syllables: nu - mer - i - cal
Tricky part: There is no b in it, even though number has one. After numer comes i, then cal, so the end is ical, not ecal or icle.
Watch out for: numerecal, numericle, neumerical
Memory tip: Think of the numeric keypad on a computer. Write numeric, then add al.
Usage Examples
Example 1: The answer sheet asks for a numerical value, not a word.
Example 2: Please arrange the files in numerical order.
Example 3: Her numerical skills helped the team finish the budget.
Fun Fact
The number pad on a computer keyboard has 7, 8 and 9 on its top row, while a phone keypad puts 1, 2 and 3 on top.
Practise the CREST Way
Word Makeup
Only one of these words takes the suffix al to make a real word. Choose it:
al
a) sudden
b) bright
c) numeric
d) honest
Show answer
c) numeric. Numeric plus al gives numerical; brightal, suddenal and honestal are not words.
Word Cookie
Find the extra letter in the word:
numberical
a) r
b) c
c) m
d) b
Show answer
d) b. Number has a b, but numerical drops it.
Spell-o-Spell
Choose the meaning of the only correctly spelt word:
1. equasion 2. calculater 3. numerical 4. sequance
a) a set of things that follow one another in order
b) a small machine used to work out sums
c) a statement that two amounts are equal
d) to do with numbers or shown in numbers
Show answer
d) to do with numbers or shown in numbers. Only numerical is spelt right; sequence, calculator and equation have a wrong letter each.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Numerical information would include ____.
a) the colour of the team shirt
b) the score 245 for 3
c) the name of the captain
d) the shape of the ground
Show answer
b) the score 245 for 3
2. Arranging books in numerical order means arranging them ____.
a) by the first letter of each title
b) by the author's home town
c) by their numbers, lowest to highest
d) by the colour of their covers
Show answer
c) by their numbers, lowest to highest
