Ah, the English language, a source of both wonder and confusion. Among its many quirks and idiosyncrasies are the occasional spelling variations that can trip up even the most proficient writers. One such example is the word “contemporaries” (meaning people who lived during the same time period) and the slightly altered form “contamporaries.”
To put it simply, “contemporaries” is the correct spelling of this word. The alteration “contamporaries” is not recognized as a valid spelling in standard English. It is best to stick with the tried and true, widely accepted version to ensure clear communication in your writing.
Let’s learn the reasons why “contemporaries” is the correct spelling. First and foremost, the word has a long-established history with its accepted form. It has been used in this way for centuries, making it the accepted standard in the English language.
Additionally, there is no semantic or grammatical reason to deviate from the accepted spelling. “Contemporaries” is a noun that refers to people who exist or coexist in the same time period. It follows the common English pattern of using the “-ary” suffix to denote a person who performs a certain action or possesses a certain quality. For example, “secretary” refers to a person who performs secretarial duties, and “revolutionary” refers to a person who participates in a revolution.
Using “contamporaries” instead of “contemporaries” would not only be incorrect, but it could also confuse readers. In the world of language learning and testing, clarity and precision are crucial. Using the standardized spelling ensures effective communication and avoids the confusion that can arise from deviating from accepted conventions.
Here are a few examples to illustrate the correct usage of “contemporaries”:
1. Charles Dickens and Mark Twain were contemporaries, both writing during the 19th century.
2. Picasso and Matisse, two contemporaries of the art world, revolutionized modern painting.
3. The Wright brothers were contemporaries of scientific pioneers like Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell.
As you can see, “contemporaries” fits seamlessly into these sentences, conveying the intended meaning without any ambiguity. It is always a good idea to consult reputable dictionaries or style guides when in doubt about spelling or word usage. This will ensure that your writing adheres to accepted standards and maintains clarity for your readers.
So, remember, in the battle of “contemporaries” versus “contamporaries,” there is a clear winner: “contemporaries” reigns supreme as the correct and accepted spelling. Don’t let the slight alteration of a single letter confuse you. Stick with the tried and true version to ensure effective communication and convey your ideas accurately. Happy writing!