Forty eight or fourty eight – which is correct? This may seem like a simple question, but it is one that often confuses English learners and even native speakers. The correct spelling is actually “forty eight,” with the “y” coming before the “t.” In this article, I will explain why “forty” is the correct spelling and provide examples to illustrate this point.
The reason why “forty” is the correct spelling can be traced back to etymology. The word “forty” is derived from Old English, where it was spelled as “feowertig.” Over time, the spelling has evolved, but the root of the word remained the same. This is why we still use “forty” today.
To further illustrate this point, let’s look at some examples. Consider the following sentence: “There were forty-eight students in the classroom.” In this case, “forty-eight” is used to express the number of students. If we were to use the incorrect spelling “fourty-eight,” it would be considered grammatically incorrect.
Another example is when we use “forty” in ordinal numbers. For instance, we would say “fortieth” to express the position of something in a sequence. Imagine you are talking about a marathon, and you want to indicate the 40th place. You would say, “He finished in fortieth place.” If we were to use the incorrect spelling “fourtieth,” it would not only look odd but also be incorrect.
One way to remember the correct spelling is to think of it as a pattern. In English, numbers ending with -ty, such as twenty, thirty, and eighty, all have the “t” before the “y.” By following this pattern, “forty” naturally falls into place. It’s like a puzzle where the pieces fit together perfectly.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the correct spelling of “forty” is universally accepted and used in various English-speaking countries. Whether you are in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or Canada, you will find “forty” as the standard spelling.
So, next time you find yourself unsure about whether it’s “forty eight” or “fourty eight,” remember that the correct spelling is “forty eight.” That little “ty” combination is what differentiates it from the incorrect “fourty eight.” By sticking to this rule, you will avoid making a common spelling mistake and demonstrate your mastery of English grammar.
In conclusion, “forty eight” is the correct spelling, with the “y” preceding the “t.” We can attribute this to the word’s etymology and the consistent spelling pattern observed in English. Remembering this rule will help you use the correct spelling consistently and confidently. So, the next time you are discussing the number 48, remember it’s “forty eight.”