In today’s fast-paced world of instant communication and shortened attention spans, it’s easy to overlook the importance of proper grammar and spelling. However, for those who are preparing to take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), attention to detail in language usage is crucial. A common source of confusion for many IELTS test-takers is the correct spelling of words that sound the same but are spelled differently, such as “recommend” and “reccomend”. In this article, we will explore the correct spelling and usage of these two words, providing a clear explanation and a variety of examples to help you better understand.
The correct spelling of the word is “recommend”. The double ‘c’ spelling (“reccomend”) is incorrect and should be avoided. Often, these spelling errors occur due to simple typographical errors or confusion about the correct spelling. However, it is important to remember that precise spelling is essential for IELTS success, as examiners will be assessing your ability to accurately use and manipulate the English language.
To fully understand why “recommend” is the correct spelling, let’s break down the word etymologically. “Recommend” is derived from the Latin word “recommendo”, which means “to entrust”. When the word was first introduced into English, it retained its Latin form, but over time, pronunciation and spelling changes occurred. This is why we now spell it as “recommend” rather than “recommendo”. It is important to note that the Latin root, “commendo”, is spelled with a double ‘m’, which directly corresponds to the correct spelling of “recommend”.
Now, let’s examine some examples to illustrate the correct usage of “recommend”:
1. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking inspiration.
2. The doctor recommended a change in diet to improve my overall health.
3. Can you recommend a good restaurant in this area?
4. The travel guidebook recommends visiting the historical sites in the morning to avoid the crowds.
5. My friend recommended this brand of headphones, and I must say, they are excellent.
As you can see, “recommend” is the appropriate spelling in each of these examples. Using the incorrect spelling, “reccomend”, would be considered a spelling error and could negatively impact your score on the IELTS exam.
To avoid making this mistake in your writing and on the exam, it is helpful to remember that the word “recommend” starts with the prefix “re-“, which means “again” or “back”. This connection reinforces the correct spelling and helps differentiate it from the incorrect alternative. It may also be worth noting that “recommend” is a common word that is used frequently in both spoken and written English, so it is advantageous to familiarize yourself with its correct spelling and usage.
In conclusion, “recommend” is the correct spelling of this word, while “reccomend” is a common misspelling. Paying attention to spelling and grammar details is particularly important for IELTS test-takers who aim to achieve a high score. By using the correct spelling and understanding the etymological roots of a word, you can confidently and accurately use it in your writing and conversation. So, remember to always “recommend”, not “reccomend”, when sharing your thoughts and ideas.