Deciphered or Decyphered – Which is Correct?
Ah, the English language, a beautiful yet perplexing beast filled with countless rule exceptions and confounding spellings. It’s no wonder that even proficient users of English sometimes find themselves questioning which spelling is correct for a certain word. One such word that often leads to confusion is “deciphered” or “decyphered.” So, let’s unravel this linguistic enigma once and for all: which spelling is indeed correct?
The correct spelling is “deciphered,” not “decyphered.” While “decyphered” may seem like a plausible alternative, it is considered an obsolete or archaic spelling that has fallen out of favor in modern English usage. I strive to provide clarity and simplicity to my students. Therefore, I highly recommend using the modern and accepted spelling, “deciphered.”
To further illustrate this point and solidify our understanding, let’s examine the word “decipher” and its spelling in various forms of the English language. In British English, Canadian English, and other variants, “decipher” is consistently spelled with a “ph.” Conversely, in American English, the word retains its “ph” spelling, consistent with the origin of the word in French.
Now, you might be wondering, why does “deciphered” use a “ph” rather than the seemingly logical “cypher” or “cyphered”? Well, let’s learn the etymology of the word to uncover its origins. “Decipher” is derived from the French word “déchiffrer,” which dates back to the 14th century. This French term combines the prefix “dé-” (meaning “un-” or “opposite”) with “chiffrer” (meaning “to cipher” or “to code”). Over time, the spelling of “déchiffrer” gradually evolved, but the essential “ph” sound remained intact.
To further illuminate the superiority of “deciphered” over “decyphered,” consider some other words that exemplify the use of the “ph” spelling: “graphic” instead of “grafic,” “telephone” instead of “telepone,” or “photograph” instead of “fotograph.” In each case, the “ph” spelling is consistent and widely accepted in the English language.
In addition to considering the historical roots and linguistic consistency of “deciphered,” it’s crucial to consult reputable dictionaries. Widely regarded dictionaries such as the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) and Merriam-Webster also confirm that “deciphered” is the correct modern spelling.
In conclusion, when faced with the choice between “deciphered” and “decyphered,” always opt for the former. The spelling “decyphered” is outdated and seldom used in contemporary English. Remember to consult reputable dictionaries and consider the etymology of words to guide your spelling choices. So, go forth and confidently decipher codes, texts, and mysteries, armed with the knowledge of proper English spelling!