Intelligent or Inteligent – Which is Correct?
When it comes to determining the correct spelling of the word, “intelligent,” there seems to be some confusion. Is it spelled with one “l” or with two? To put an end to this debate, let’s dive into the world of English grammar and explore the correct spelling and usage of this word.
To clarify, the correct spelling of this word is “intelligent” with two “l’s.” This is the standard and widely accepted spelling used by native English speakers and dictionaries alike. However, it’s not uncommon to come across the misspelling “inteligent” with only one “l.” So, let’s analyze why the double “l” spelling is correct and why the single “l” version is incorrect.
The word “intelligent” derives from the Latin word “intelligere,” meaning “to understand” or “to comprehend.” Through centuries of linguistic evolution, this word made its way into the English language, with both its meaning and spelling intact. The double “l” in “intelligent” serves to indicate the correct pronunciation of the word, with the stress falling on the second syllable. Without the second “l,” the pronunciation would change, leading to linguistic confusion.
To further illustrate this point, let’s consider a few examples. Imagine you’re having a conversation about someone’s intellectual abilities, and you say, “She is a very intel-” Wait a minute, is it “intel-” or “intell-“? By using the incorrect spelling “inteligent,” you risk causing confusion and a potential breakdown in communication.
Moreover, the correct spelling of “intelligent” also aligns with the general spelling rules of the English language. In most cases, when a word ends with a vowel followed by a consonant, the final consonant is usually doubled before adding a suffix (e.g., “big” becomes “bigger” or “wet” becomes “wetter”). This rule applies to the word “intelligent” as well. For instance, when its superlative form is used, we write “most intelligent” and not “most inteligent.” The double “l” remains consistent throughout all forms and tenses of the word.
To solidify our understanding, let’s consider an analogy. Imagine you’re baking a cake, and the recipe calls for two eggs. You wouldn’t settle for just one egg, would you? No, because following the recipe exactly ensures the best possible outcome. Similarly, when it comes to spelling, following the conventions and rules of the English language ensures clear and effective communication.
In conclusion, it is essential to recognize that the correct spelling of the word is indeed “intelligent” with two “l’s.” Although the misspelling “inteligent” with one “l” is occasionally seen, it is incorrect and should be avoided. Remember to rely on standard English spelling rules, and embrace the power of two “l’s” to express and comprehend intelligence accurately. So, the next time you find yourself in a debate over the correct spelling, be confident in your knowledge and give a definitive answer: “Intelligent is the correct spelling, my friend!”