Question

Choose the correctly spelt words from the following

• A. arguement
• B. argeument
• C. argument
• D. argumant

Answer 1

Answer:

C. argument

Understanding Common Spelling Rules for Competitive Exams

• The Word: Argument

  Argument is a frequently misspelled word in English, often causing confusion due to its root verb, argue.

• The Silent 'e' Rule

  The correct spelling of argument follows a common English spelling rule: when a word ends in a silent 'e' (like 'argue') and a suffix beginning with a consonant is added (like '-ment'), the 'e' is usually retained. However, when the suffix begins with a vowel, the 'e' is often dropped. For 'argument', the suffix is '-ment', which begins with a consonant. Yet, 'argue' is an exception where the 'e' is dropped even before a consonant suffix to form 'argument'. This exception makes it a common test item.

• Key Spelling Tip: Drop the 'e' for Argument

  When forming the noun 'argument' from the verb 'argue', the silent 'e' at the end of 'argue' is dropped. Therefore, it is argu + ment = argument, not arguement.

• Other Words Following (or not following) Similar Rules for Comparison:

  • Words like achieve + ment = achievement (the 'e' is retained because '-ment' starts with a consonant, and 'ie' is a vowel digraph).
  • Words like true + ly = truly (the 'e' is dropped).
  • Words like whole + ly = wholly (the 'e' is dropped).
  • Words like judge + ment = judgment (the 'e' is often dropped, but 'judgement' is also acceptable, especially in British English).

• Common Misspellings to Watch Out For:

  The most common misspelling of 'argument' is 'arguement', which includes the 'e' from 'argue'. Recognizing this common error helps in quickly identifying the correct option.

• Importance in Competitive Exams:

  Spelling questions are a staple in English language sections of competitive exams. Words like 'argument' that defy simple rules or are common exceptions are frequently chosen to test candidates' attention to detail and knowledge of irregular spellings. Consistent practice and memorization of such words are crucial.