Forty Three or Forty Three – Which is Correct?
When it comes to writing numbers, especially those in the double digits, confusion can often arise. Is it spelled “Fourty Three” or “Forty Three”? Which one is correct? Let’s dive into this grammatical dilemma and unravel the mystery.
The correct spelling of the number between 42 and 44 is “Forty Three.” Yes, you read it right, “Forty” is spelled with an “o,” not an “u.” This might come as a surprise to some, as the pronunciation of the number can sound like “fourty.” However, the correct spelling always follows the traditional pattern.
To understand why “Forty Three” is correct, let’s explore the intricacies of English spelling. In many cases, the spelling of words reflects their etymology or origin. The word “forty” comes from Old English and is derived from the word “feowertig,” which means “four tens.” This meaning becomes clearer when we examine other numbers, such as “twenty” and “thirty,” which follow the same pattern.
Here’s a straightforward mnemonic to help you remember the correct spelling: “Four tens is ‘Forty’ and not ‘Fourty.”’ Next time you find yourself unsure, just remember that the spelling of “Forty” is consistent with other numbers in the tens place.
Although it may seem insignificant to some, using the correct spelling is essential for clear communication and maintaining a professional image. Consistency in spelling demonstrates attention to detail and a strong command of the English language. Moreover, small errors like misspelling “Forty Three” can indicate carelessness to an examiner or employer.
Now that we’ve determined the correct spelling, let’s consider some examples where “Forty Three” is used correctly:
1. “I bought forty-three books at the bookstore.” (Correct)
2. “There are forty-three students in my class.” (Correct)
3. “He scored forty-three points in the game.” (Correct)
In these examples, “Forty Three” is correctly used to denote the precise number of books, students, or points. Notice how the words are spelled out, reinforcing the correct usage of “Forty Three.”
On the other hand, if we were to use “Fourty Three,” it would be considered incorrect spelling. Let’s demonstrate this with a few examples:
1. “I bought fourty-three books at the bookstore.” (Incorrect)
2. “There are fourty-three students in my class.” (Incorrect)
3. “He scored fourty-three points in the game.” (Incorrect)
In these cases, “Fourty Three” is spelled incorrectly and could lead to confusion and miscommunication. To avoid such mistakes, it is crucial to remember the proper spelling of the number.
In conclusion, the correct spelling of the number between 42 and 44 is “Forty Three.” Although the pronunciation may lead some to believe otherwise, following the traditional pattern of English spelling is essential for clear communication. By using “Forty Three” instead of “Fourty Three,” you demonstrate your mastery of the English language and maintain a professional image. So next time you write this number, remember the mnemonic and spell it correctly.