Desperately or Desparately – Which is Correct?
When it comes to spelling, English can sometimes be a tricky language to navigate. One common source of confusion for English learners and even native speakers is the correct spelling of the word “desperately.” Is it spelled as “desperately” or “desparately”? Let’s dive into this spelling conundrum and find out which one is correct.
The correct spelling of this word is “desperately.” The adverb form of the adjective “desperate,” “desperately” is used to intensify an action, indicating a strong urgency or desire. It is spelled with an “e” after the first “r,” not an “a.”
So why do some people spell it as “desparately”? Well, this is an example of a common spelling mistake, likely influenced by the way the word is pronounced. The sound of the second syllable in “desperately” might sound similar to the sound “ar” as in “car” or “bar.” This auditory similarity can lead people to mistakenly believe that the correct spelling contains an “a” instead of an “e.”
To illustrate the correct usage and spelling of “desperately,” let’s look at some examples:
1. “She is desperately searching for her lost wallet.”
– In this sentence, the adverb “desperately” intensifies the action of searching. It conveys an urgent and frantic effort to find the lost wallet.
2. “He desperately needed a job to support his family.”
– Here, “desperately” emphasizes the urgency of finding employment. It highlights the person’s strong need and desire for a job.
3. “The explorers were desperately trying to reach the summit before the storm hit.”
– In this example, “desperately” underscores the climbers’ intense effort and determination to reach the summit before the impending storm. It shows their urgent race against time.
4. “I am desperately craving a piece of chocolate cake.”
– This sentence demonstrates how “desperately” can be used to intensify a person’s desire or craving for something. The word conveys a strong longing or desperation for a delicious treat in this case.
I often encounter students who struggle with spelling and vocabulary. It is crucial to note that spelling mistakes, such as writing “desparately” instead of “desperately,” can lower your score in the writing and reading sections of the exam. Therefore, it is vital to practice and improve your spelling skills to ensure accurate and precise expression in your written work.
To avoid confusion and enhance your spelling skills, it is advisable to keep a list of commonly misspelled words and their correct spellings. Familiarize yourself with these words and reinforce their correct spelling through regular practice. Additionally, consulting a reliable dictionary, such as Oxford English Dictionary or Merriam-Webster, can provide you with a comprehensive guide to accurate spellings and definitions.
In conclusion, the correct spelling of the word is “desperately.” It is crucial to pay attention to the correct spelling of words to ensure effective communication in both spoken and written English. By understanding the correct spelling and proper usage of “desperately,” you can avoid simple spelling mistakes and strengthen your language skills overall. So, remember, it’s “desperately,” not “desparately”! Keep practicing and honing your spelling skills, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an expert in English language and grammar.