This parameter considers the basic word order within numeral constructions. In languages that do not require the use of a numeral classifier, two word orders are possible: one in which the numeral (Num) precedes the noun (N) or noun phrase it modifies and one in which it follows the N or NP. Languages that require the use of a numeral classifier (Clsfr) should also include its position relative to the other two items.

Types:

NumN: The numeral precedes the noun or NP; numeral classifiers are not required.

NNum: The numeral follows the noun or NP; numeral classifiers are not required.

NumClsfrN: The numeral must be followed by a numeral classifier; both precede the noun or NP.

ClsfrNumN: The numeral must be preceded by a numeral classifier; both precede the noun or NP.

The three elements Clsfr, N, and Num may be reordered to reflect any word order not listed above.

When a language displays two types, both values can be listed. If one type is dominant, a slash (/) can separate the two values, with the dominant value appearing first; if neither is dominant, they are listed with an ampersand (&) separating the two. [1] If the use of a particular word order is optional, it should be marked in parentheses.

[1] The commentary should clarify whether the use of one type versus the other is determined by syntactic or semantic considerations or can be freely chosen by the speaker.