When you hear the words “reportably” and “reportedly,” do you scratch your head wondering which one is the correct choice? Let’s clear up any confusion about these two terms and figure out which one is part of standard English vocab.
Reportedly is the correct word to use when you want to say that something has been stated by reports or sources. For example, “The CEO reportedly resigned due to personal reasons.” This means the information comes from reports, not confirmed facts.
The word reportably does not exist in English. Always use reportedly when referring to something mentioned in reports or by people indirectly connected to the event.
Understanding “Reportedly”
First, let’s look at “reportedly.” This word is commonly used when we want to say that something has been mentioned in reports or by sources but isn’t yet confirmed. It acts as an adverb, modifying verbs and giving us an understanding of how information was shared.
Examples of “Reportedly”
- The celebrity was reportedly at the cafe yesterday.
- Prices are reportedly going to rise next month.
- The novel is reportedly being adapted into a movie.
If you think of a news reporter, you can imagine they often use this word to show that their information comes from other reports. It’s a handy way of presenting information that might not be direct or firsthand, but is still worth mentioning.
Is “Reportably” a Real Word?
Now, what about “reportably”? This term might sound like it should mean something similar to “reportedly,” right? Well, here’s where it gets interesting. “Reportably” isn’t recognized in most dictionaries as a standard word. In fact, it’s very rare to see it used in any professional writing or serious communication.
It’s almost like someone wanted to create a word similar to “reportedly” but missed the mark. It’s not part of a standard vocabulary you would learn at school or read in books.
How Confusion Might Happen
It’s easy to see why someone might think “reportably” is correct. English has many words that sound similar and even native speakers get confused. But that’s what learning is all about – clearing up those little mix-ups.
Have you ever heard someone use “reportably” in a sentence? It might happen, but remember, it’s not the word most people agree on. It could just be a slip of the tongue or a momentary mix-up of terms.
Choosing the Right Word
So, it boils down to this – “reportedly” is your go-to word. You’ll find it in books, newspapers, and your favorite news channels. It’s universally recognized and understood.
Next time you need to convey something you heard from a report or without having first-hand proof, “reportedly” is the word to use. It fits perfectly in formal and informal settings, making it very versatile.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right words is like picking the right tools for a job. “Reportedly” is like that reliable screwdriver that fits just right and helps you do your work properly.
Remember, while “reportably” might sound correct, it’s not the standard choice. Stick to “reportedly” for clear and effective communication!
Have you ever caught yourself or someone else mixing these two up? It’s okay if you have; learning these little distinctions is what makes English such a fun language to master!
Why not try using “reportedly” in your next conversation or written piece? See how natural it feels to use it correctly. Practice makes perfect, after all!
So, next time you’re reading a report or hearing news, pay attention to this subtle but important distinction. It’ll sharpen your English skills and boost your confidence in using the language.
