In the technological age we live in, it is not surprising that digital communication has become the norm. Whether it is sending emails, chatting on social media, or participating in online classes, we rely heavily on digital platforms to connect with others. But when it comes to using the correct adverb form, many English learners find themselves in a dilemma – should it be “digitally” or “digitaly”? Let’s shed some light on this issue and explore the correct usage of these two words.
The correct adverb form is “digitally.” This is because “digitally” is formed by adding the suffix “-ly” to the adjective “digital.” In English grammar, adding “-ly” to an adjective is a common way to form an adverb. For example, “quick” becomes “quickly,” “loud” becomes “loudly,” and “happy” becomes “happily.” Likewise, “digital” becomes “digitally.”
Using “digitaly” would be an incorrect form of the adverb. This misspelling is a common mistake due to the similarity in pronunciation between the “-ly” sound and the “-y” sound. However, these two sounds have different functions in English grammar. “-Ly” is used to form adverbs, while “-y” is usually used to form adjectives. Therefore, the correct form to describe something done in a digital manner is “digitally.”
To illustrate this, let’s look at some examples. Firstly, consider the sentence “She communicates digitally with her friends.” In this case, “digitally” is used to describe the method of communication being employed. The adverb clarifies that she communicates using digital platforms such as messaging apps or social media.
On the other hand, if we were to use the incorrect form “digitaly,” the sentence would instead read “She communicatse digitaly with her friends.” This improper usage distracts the reader or listener, causing a momentary pause to decipher the intended meaning. Such errors can interrupt the flow of communication and hinder clarity.
Another example where “digitally” is the correct choice is “The photos were digitally enhanced to bring out the details.” Here, the adverb describes how the photos were enhanced, emphasizing that the enhancement was done using digital editing tools.
Conversely, if we were to use “digitaly” instead, the sentence would read “The photos were digitayl enhanced to bring out the details.” This incorrect usage not only disrupts the natural rhythm of the sentence but also creates confusion for the reader or listener.
In summary, the correct adverb form to describe something done in a digital manner is “digitally.” The incorrect form “digitaly” is a common mistake, but understanding the rules of adverb formation can help avoid such errors. Using “digitally” appropriately will enhance your English communication and ensure that your meaning comes across clearly. So, next time you discuss digital matters, remember to choose the correct adverb form and say it “digitally,” not “digitaly.”