Picture this: You’re reading a poem, and the word “extol” pops up. You’re sure you’ve seen “extoll” somewhere before. Is there a difference, or are they just two ways of saying the same thing? You pause, unsure, and that little doubt nags at you.
We’ve all been there—caught between two similar words, not entirely clear on their meanings or uses. It can feel frustrating, like a wall blocking your path to understanding. But don’t worry. Let’s clear this up and set you on the right course. By the end of this article, that wall will be a distant memory.
The distinction between extol and extoll lies in their spelling and usage. Extol is the correct spelling, meaning to praise highly or laud enthusiastically. For example, “Critics extol his work for its originality.”
On the other hand, extoll is a common misspelling of extol. Always remember to use ‘extol’ when you want to express high praise for someone or something. For instance, “She extols the benefits of regular exercise.”
Understanding the Meaning of Extol
To fully understand “extol,” it helps to know its background and use. The word is often used for expressing admiration or high praise. When you see an article in The Globe and Mail praising a new tech breakthrough or an op-ed in The Washington Post cheering a big cultural feat, know that extol is a powerful word in today’s language.
Etymology of Extol
The linguistic origin of extol comes from the Latin “extollere,” meaning “to lift up.” It made its way through Middle English to today’s use. Knowing where it comes from helps us see its role in showing respect and high esteem.
Usage of Extol in Sentences
Using extol can make what you talk about seem more significant. A food critic might extol the dishes of a top-notch eatery. Or a film critic could praise the standout performances in a hit movie. These context examples show how extol can glorify subjects in a respected way.
The Definition of Extoll
In the world of English language, extoll is a unique word to explore. It has the same meanings as extol. Yet, over time, fewer people have used it.
The use of extoll has decreased because language keeps changing. We often pick simpler words. Even so, dictionaries like Merriam-Webster still list extoll as correct. But, many prefer extol, with one ‘l’.
Learning about words like extoll shows us how language changes. It’s key to know about dictionary definitions and language trends. While extoll isn’t common now, it’s still recognized. It shows how English has evolved over time.
The Correct Spelling: Extol vs Extoll
The preferred spelling is ‘extol’ when you want to praise something or someone. English grammar experts mostly agree with using this single-l version.
‘Extol’ is in line with today’s language trends and grammar rules. While ‘extoll’ can still be used, it’s becoming less common. This shows how language changes over time, shifting towards simpler spellings.
If you aim for precise spelling and strict adherence to grammar, choose ‘extol’. It is the more popular choice in current writings. This suggests it’s the best option for clear and accurate writing.
Grammatical Forms of Extol
It’s key to know the different grammatical forms of “extol” to get better at English. This verb changes form depending on how it’s used in a sentence.
Past, Indicative, and Adverb Forms
- Past Tense: The past tense of “extol” is “extolled.” Use this when you’re talking about something done in the past. For instance, “She extolled his virtues in her speech.”
- Progressive Form: “Extolling” shows something that’s still happening. Like, “They are extolling the new artist’s work.”
- Adverbial Form: “Extollingly” describes how an action is done. A sample sentence would be, “He spoke extollingly of their achievements.”
Derivative Nouns
“Extol” isn’t just a verb. It has noun forms that add richness to your words.
- Extoller: This noun is for someone who talks highly of others. For example, “She is an avid extoller of contemporary poetry.”
- Extolment: This noun is the act of praising highly. It can be seen in, “The extolment of ancient traditions shines in his writings.”
Learning the forms of “extol” and its nouns can boost your English skills. This knowledge helps you speak and write more clearly and effectively.
Historical Usage of Extol
The word extol has been important in English since the 15th century. It comes from Latin words. This term has been loved by scholars and writers for centuries. It shows a deep history in language and literature. This word has kept its meaning over time. It is always used to praise and glorify.
In old books, extol is used a lot. It fits well in many places, like poems and famous books. The word’s strength over time shows its lasting impact. It highlights the importance of using words well to celebrate good things or qualities.
Extol comes from “ex-” and “tollere” in Latin, which means to lift or raise. This history shows how it can improve how we see its subjects. Looking into historical linguistics, we see the value of such words. They keep their meaning and importance, teaching us to use them right in today’s language.
