Skip to content

Override or Overide – Which is Correct?

Have you ever found yourself questioning whether it is “override” or “overide” that is the correct spelling? It’s not uncommon for words to have subtle variations in spelling, and it can be confusing. and an IELTS tutor, I can help clarify this matter for you.

The correct spelling of this word is “override.” The “r” comes before the “i,” making it a two-syllable word pronounced as “oh-ver-ride.” Let’s dive deeper into the reasons why “override” is the correct spelling and provide some examples to illustrate its usage.

One way to determine the correct spelling of a word is by looking at its etymology. “Override” is derived from the combination of two words: “over” and “ride.” The word “ride” refers to sitting or moving on a horse, vehicle, or any other means of transportation. On the other hand, “over” is a preposition that signifies going beyond or above something. When these two words are combined, they create the concept of surpassing or taking control over something previously established.

Here are some examples of how “override” is used in sentences:

1. The president has the power to override a veto by Congress.
2. The safety features of this car can override any manual input by the driver.
3. The judge decided to override the jury’s decision and ordered a retrial.
4. The parental control settings allow parents to override certain website restrictions for educational purposes.
5. Despite the warning lights, the pilot made the decision to override the automatic landing system and land the plane manually.

In each of these examples, “override” is used to indicate taking control or surpassing a previous decision or action. The word is commonly employed in legal, technological, and even parental contexts.

Now, let’s consider the incorrect spelling “overide.” Although it might appear to be the correct spelling at first glance, it is, in fact, a misspelling. Here is an example to demonstrate its incorrect usage:

1. The boss asked me to overide the original design and implement a new one.

While the meaning is clear in this sentence, the spelling is incorrect. It should be “override” instead.

In conclusion, the correct spelling of the word is “override.” It is essential to pay attention to the order of the letters and syllables in a word to ensure accurate spelling. By understanding the etymology of the word and examining its usage in various contexts, we can gain a better grasp of its correct spelling and usage.

So, if you ever find yourself in doubt about whether it’s “override” or “overide,” remember to go with the spelling that contains the letter “r” before the letter “i.” Don’t let the subtle differences trip you up, and feel confident in using the correct spelling in your writing and conversations.