Quantities or Quantities – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the correct spelling of “quantities,” it is crucial to recognize that the correct form is with a single “n” – “quantities.” This is a common mistake that many English learners make, and it is important to understand the reasons behind this. Let’s learn the explanation using plain English and everyday examples.
The noun “quantity” refers to an amount or number of something. In English, when we want to indicate the plural form of a word, we usually add an “s” at the end. However, there are certain spelling rules that we need to be aware of.
In the case of “quantity,” the “y” at the end undergoes a slight change when we add an “s” to make it plural. The “y” transforms into an “i” before the plural suffix. This is a common rule for many English words that end in “y.” For example:
– Singular: city | Plural: cities
– Singular: baby | Plural: babies
– Singular: copy | Plural: copies
Applying this rule, when we want to express more than one “quantity,” we write “quantities” with a single “n” before the suffix “ies.” The “i” takes the place of the “y” to indicate the plural form.
Examples:
1. The store sells different quantities of fruits and vegetables.
2. The scientist studied the quantities of chemicals present in the solution.
3. The recipe calls for specific quantities of ingredients.
4. The research team measured the quantities of rainfall over the past month.
Now, let’s consider the incorrect spelling: “quantites” with two “n’s.” Although this may seem like a logical choice to indicate the plural form, it is actually an incorrect spelling.
Using the incorrect form “quantites” would not only be ungrammatical but also confusing to readers. Since “quantities” is the correct form, using “quantites” could lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings. Therefore, it is essential to use the correct spelling to maintain clarity and precision in written English.
In conclusion, the correct word is “quantities” with a single “n,” and not “quantites” with two “n’s.” By applying the spelling rule for words that end in “y,” we transform the “y” into an “i” before adding the plural suffix “ies.” Remember, English spelling can be tricky at times, but by understanding and following these rules, we can avoid common mistakes and communicate effectively in written English. Keep practicing and applying these rules to enhance your language skills and ace your IELTS exam.