Have you ever written something quickly, only to look back and wonder if you’ve spelled everything correctly? It happens to the best of us, especially with words that sound similar but are spelled differently. Spelling errors can sneak into our writing at any time, especially with words that aren’t as straightforward.
The correct spelling is strangely. “Strangely” is an adverb that modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverbs, meaning in a strange manner. For example, “He looked at me strangely” implies that his manner of looking was unusual or unexpected.
Using “strangly” is incorrect and not recognized in English dictionaries. Always use “strangely” to ensure correct grammar and clear communication in your writing.
Understanding Spelling Basics
English is a language full of words that seem to break its own rules. If you’re learning English, spelling can be tricky. Sometimes, letters are added that we don’t even say out loud! Why does this happen? A lot of it comes from the history of the English language and the many other languages that have influenced it over time.
Is It Strangly or Strangely?
When we’re talking about something that is odd or unusual, we often use the adverb that comes from the word strange. But how do you spell this adverb? Is it strangly or strangely? We actually have a simple rule in English that can help us figure this out.
Adding ly to Words Ending in e
Typically, if a word ends in e, like strange, we just add ly. We do this instead of just adding y. Why? Because it helps keep the sound and meaning clear. Let’s look at some examples:
- Complete becomes completely
- Nice becomes nicely
- Finite becomes finitely
Common Errors in Spelling Strangely
One common mistake is writing strangly instead of strangely. This error might occur because in some words we drop the e before adding y, like in happy or messy. But strange is different because the e at the end of strange helps us with the pronunciation and the transition to adding ly.
So, the correct spelling is strangely, not strangly. By remembering this little rule about keeping the e when adding ly, you can avoid this common mistake.
Why Does this Mistake Happen?
What makes someone spell it wrong? Well, sometimes our brains use shortcuts when figuring out how to spell words. We might think, “I’ve seen words where e drops before adding y,” and then use that rule everywhere. But English is tricky, and it’s one of those languages where one rule does not fit all situations.
Examples and Tips to Remember
Here are some more examples:
- Brave becomes bravely, not bravly.
- True becomes truly, not truly.
- Simple becomes simply, not simplly.
Notice anything? Yes, when we add ly to words ending in e, the original word does not change, we just add ly. Keeping this in mind can help a lot.
Practice Makes Perfect
If you’re ever unsure, it’s great to practice by writing out different words and adding ly. See if the word looks correct, and say it out loud. Does it sound right? Can you hear the pieces of the word as you say it?
Also, reading a lot can help. The more you see words spelled correctly, the easier it becomes to remember their spelling when you write them yourself. Remembering specific examples can also act as a guide for you. If completely, nicely, and finitely keep the e, then so does strangely.
By understanding these spelling patterns, you can become a stronger writer in English. All it takes is some practice and a willingness to learn these straightforward tips. Do you see what we did there? Just added ly to straight and kept the e! We promise; it gets easier with practice.
So next time you write about something peculiar or odd, remember to spell it as strangely. This little spelling check can make your writing clearer and more professional-looking. How empowering does it feel to master these small but important details of English spelling?