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Bitten or Biten – Which is Correct?

When it comes to the English language, there are often confusing and inconsistent spelling patterns that can trip up even the most seasoned language learner. One such example is the usage of “bitten” or “biten”, a common dilemma that many English learners face. In this article, we will explore the correct form and provide a clear explanation with plenty of examples to help you remember the correct usage.

To put it simply, the correct form is “bitten”. “Biten” is not a correct spelling in modern English and should be avoided. The past participle of the verb “to bite” is always “bitten”. This is a common rule in English, where regular verbs form their past participles by adding “-ed” to the base form. However, irregular verbs like “to bite” have their own unique past participle forms.

Let’s take a closer look at the verb “to bite” and its past participle “bitten”. When you want to express an action that has already happened, you would typically use the past participle form. For example:

1. The dog has bitten me twice this month.
2. I got bitten by a mosquito while camping.
3. He was bitten by a snake and had to be rushed to the hospital.

In these examples, we can see how the past participle “bitten” is used to describe the action of being bitten. It is important to note that “bitten” is used as an adjective in these sentences, modifying the noun that follows it.

On the other hand, the word “biten” is not considered a correct form in modern English. It may be a result of confusion or a common misspelling. However, it is not recognized as a valid form and should be avoided in formal writing or speaking.

To help you remember the correct usage, here are some additional examples using the verb “to bite” and its correct past participle “bitten”:

1. She has been bitten by the travel bug and can’t stop exploring new destinations.
2. The taste of the spicy chili was so intense that it felt like I was being bitten by fire.
3. My sister’s dog is usually friendly, but he has bitten a few strangers who approached him aggressively.

By consistently using “bitten” as the past participle of the verb “to bite”, you can avoid common mistakes and effectively communicate in English. Remember, language learning is a process, and it’s natural to come across confusing spellings or exceptions to the rules. However, with practice and exposure, you can become more confident in your English skills.

In conclusion, the correct form is “bitten”. “Biten” is not considered a valid spelling in modern English. By using the correct past participle form, you can ensure clear and accurate communication in your English writing and speaking. So, the next time you want to talk about being bitten by a mosquito or a dog, remember to use “bitten” as the correct form.