How is spell 40?

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Introduction:

Spellings are an essential aspect of language, and every language has its unique spellings. When it comes to the English language, spellings can be tricky and confusing, especially for non-native speakers. One of the most commonly misspelled words in the English language is “forty”. In this blog post, we will explore the correct spelling of the word “forty” and the reasons behind its confusing spelling.

How is spell 40?

The Origin of the Word “Forty”:

Before we delve into the spelling of “forty,” it is essential to understand the origin of the word. The word “forty” comes from the Old English word “feowertig,” which means “four tens.” The word “feower” means “four,” and “tig” means “ten.” Therefore, the word “forty” means “four tens.”

The Confusing Spelling of “Forty”:

The spelling of “forty” can be confusing for many reasons. For starters, the spelling does not follow the common rule of spelling numbers that end in “ty.” For example, twenty, thirty, and fifty are spelled with a “t,” while “forty” is spelled with a “u.” Another reason for the confusing spelling is that the pronunciation of the word “forty” does not match its spelling. The word is pronounced with an “o” sound, but it is spelled with a “u.”

The History of the Spelling of “Forty”:

The spelling of “forty” has changed over time. In Old English, the word was spelled as “feowertig.” However, in Middle English, the spelling changed to “fourty” because the “u” sound was easier to pronounce than the “o” sound. The spelling remained the same until the 18th century when the spelling changed again to “forty,” which is the current spelling of the word.

Why “Forty” is Spelled with a “U”?

The reason why “forty” is spelled with a “u” instead of an “o” is still a mystery. Some experts believe that the spelling of the word was influenced by French, which has a similar word “quarante,” which is also spelled with a “u.” Others believe that the spelling was simply a mistake that stuck over time. Whatever the reason may be, the spelling of “forty” remains one of the quirks of the English language.

Common Misspellings of “Forty”:

Despite its confusing spelling, “forty” is a common word, and many people misspell it. Some of the most common misspellings include “fourty,” “forthy,” and “fourty.” However, it is essential to note that the correct spelling of the word is “forty.”

Tips for Remembering the Spelling of “Forty”:

Remembering the spelling of “forty” can be a challenge, but there are some tips that can make it easier. One tip is to remember that the word has a “u” instead of an “o.” Another tip is to remember that “forty” is the only number between 30 and 50 that is not spelled with a “t.” Finally, it is essential to remember that the correct spelling of the word is “forty,” and any other spelling is incorrect.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the spelling of “forty” is one of the quirks of the English language. Despite its confusing spelling, it is an essential word that is commonly used in everyday conversation. Remembering the correct spelling of the word can be a challenge, but with practice and some tips, it can be mastered. Whether you are a native speaker or a non-native speaker, understanding the spelling of “forty” is an essential part of effective communication in the English language. By understanding the origin and history of the word and the reasons behind its confusing spelling, we can better appreciate the complexity and beauty of the English language. So next time you come across the word “forty,” remember to spell it with a “u,” and you will be on your way to mastering one of the most commonly misspelled words in the English language.

How is spell 40?
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