Why Are There Two Different Ways to Commonly Write the Number Four?

The number four can be written in two common ways: as the numeral 4 and as the word four. Both forms serve different purposes and are used based on context, audience, and the conventions of the writing style being followed.

Why Use Numerals?

Simplicity and Efficiency: Writing numbers as numerals is quicker and often clearer, especially in mathematical contexts, tables, or when dealing with large quantities. Universal Recognition: Numerals are universally recognized and can be understood regardless of language, making them useful in global communication.

Why Use Words?

Formal Writing: In formal writing, especially in literature, essays, or when numbers begin a sentence, it is often preferred to spell out numbers to maintain a more polished tone. Clarity in Context: In some contexts, spelling out numbers can reduce confusion, especially with numbers that might be misread, such as 4 and 9.

Personal Experiences and Writing Styles

I had a friend who was a little older than me, and he wrote his twos without any loops and his fours with points. He even wrote loops on his nines and sixes. I started doing all of that but stopped the curves on the nines and sixes because I was asked so many times, 'Is that a six or a five?' No one ever confused my four for a nine, though I've never heard that, but it's all over the internet. There's really no correct way to do it as long as it's readable; there are actually more than two versions. Some are open, some are closed, and some are half and half. Many other versions exist. Some people make it loopy on the bottom cup part, while the correct way is really pointed. But lately, they teach kids to write it before even so; most people still write it incorrectly because it's supposed to cross over the horizontal line.

The question originally was since I don't trust how Quora changes questions so the answer makes no sense: 'Why are there two different ways to commonly write the number four?' I presume you mean 'numeral' and not 'number.' I guess you are referring to whether the top of the 4 is like I just wrote it or with the open top.

Common Variations in Writing the Number Four

The number four can vary widely in its writing style. For example, some people prefer to write it with a closed top (a loop), while others prefer an open top without a loop. Many people also experiment with the shape of the bottom loop, some making it loopy and others keeping it pointed. The most common variations include:

Closed Top: A classic four with a complete loop on top. Open Top: A four with an open top and no loop. Half and Half: A four that is a mix of open and closed top. Pointed Bottom: A four with a pointed bottom loop.

No matter how it is written, as long as it is readable, it is acceptable. The predominant style often varies by region or personal preference. The standard way of writing a four with a complete loop on top is generally considered the most correct, but variations are acceptable if they are legible.

Conclusion

The number four can be written in various ways, and each way serves a different purpose. Whether to use numerals or words (four) depends on the context and the style of writing. There is no definitive correct way to write the number four; the most important thing is readability.