Oxford Dictionary 4 — Safe

A term for the press and news media, especially in their role as a watchdog over government. (The other three estates are the clergy, nobility, and commoners—or, in modern terms, the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.)

At first glance, it’s just the cardinal number after three. But look closer—whether as a noun, an adjective, or part of a compound phrase— four anchors some of our most critical expressions about time, space, teamwork, and even journalism.

To be in exact analogy or agreement with something else. “This case is not on all fours with the previous ruling.” oxford dictionary 4

And then there is .

And that, dear reader, is something to write home about. Enjoy this post? Subscribe to the Oxford Languages newsletter for more word stories, grammar deep-dives, and writing advice. A term for the press and news media,

Word Stories, Vocabulary, Writing Tips There are some words in the English language that seem so simple we take them for granted. The . And . Of . We glance at them, assume we know everything there is to know, and move on.

“A free and independent fourth estate is essential to democracy.” To be in exact analogy or agreement with something else

Four for the Road: Mastering the Many Meanings of a Tiny Number

4 minutes