The ordering Numeratives (or ʻordinativesʼ) specify either an exact place in order (ordinal numerals, e.g. 'the second train') or an inexact place (e.g. 'a subsequent train'). An inexact Numerative expression may be exact in the context; for example 'just as many trains' (ʻas mentioned beforeʼ), 'the next train' (ʻfrom nowʼ). On the other hand, an exact Numerative expression may be made inexact by SUB-MODIFICATION, as in 'about ten trains', 'almost the last trains'.
- Halliday (1985), a pag.163