When it comes to the correct spelling of “hundred,” many English language learners often find themselves confused between “hundred” and “hundered.” In this article, we will learn the correct spelling and usage of the word, providing a clear understanding of why “hundred” is the correct choice.
Firstly, let’s establish the correct form – “hundred.” The word “hundred” is used to denote the number 100. It comes from the Old English word “hund,” meaning “a group of ten.” The “red” in “hundred” refers to ten sets of ten, which adds up to a total of one hundred. It is important to note that “hundred” is spelled with an “r,” not an “e.”
To further emphasize the distinction between “hundred” and “hundered,” let’s consider some examples. When counting from one to ten, we can clearly see the significance of each number:
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Now, when we reach the number eleven, we can see that it consists of the word “ten” and the suffix “-one.” This pattern continues until we reach nineteen:
11 (ten + one)
12 (ten + two)
…
19 (ten + nine)
When we reach the number twenty, a new pattern emerges. Instead of using the word “ten,” we use the word “twenty” along with the corresponding unit. For instance:
20 (twenty)
21 (twenty + one)
22 (twenty + two)
…
29 (twenty + nine)
Similarly, when we reach the number one hundred, we use the word “hundred” followed by the appropriate unit:
100 (one hundred)
101 (one hundred + one)
102 (one hundred + two)
…
199 (one hundred + ninety-nine)
As we can see, “hundred” always contains an “r” and never an “e.” It is essential to remember this spelling when using the word in everyday conversation, writing, or even in formal contexts like the IELTS exam.
To solidify our understanding, let’s consider a metaphorical analogy. Think of the number one hundred as a road leading to your destination. The word “hundred” is like the perfectly paved road, smooth and clear, guiding you to where you need to go. On the other hand, the incorrect spelling “hundered” would be like encountering a pothole on that road, causing confusion and hindering your progress.
In conclusion, the correct spelling is “hundred.” It is crucial to grasp the correct spelling, as using the incorrect variation “hundered” can greatly impact your English proficiency. Remembering the pattern of counting in English, and understanding the etymology of the word, will help ensure accurate usage and avoid any confusion. So, go ahead and confidently use “hundred” to express the number 100 in all your English language endeavors.