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Sandels or Sandals – Which is Correct?

Let’s dive into the world of footwear and explore the question of whether it should be spelled as “sandels” or “sandals.” As an IELTS tutor, I am here to shed some light on this topic and provide a clear answer.

The correct spelling is actually “sandals,” with an “a” in the middle and an “s” at the end. Now, you might be wondering why it is spelled this way, or if there are any exceptions in the English language. So, let’s dig deeper and uncover the reasons behind this spelling.

English is a language that has borrowed words from various sources over centuries. Sometimes, these borrowed words have undergone changes in pronunciation, spelling, or both. In the case of “sandals,” it originated from the Old French word “sandale,” which itself was derived from the Latin word “sandalium.”

When words are adapted from one language to another, they often experience shifts in spelling, pronunciation, and even meaning. These changes can occur due to the phonetic intricacies of a language or simply to make the word more user-friendly in the new language. In the case of “sandals,” the transition from “sandale” to “sandals” is a prime example of how these adaptations occur in English.

Now, let’s consider some examples to reinforce why “sandals” is the correct spelling. Imagine you are going to the beach, and you need to buy a pair of comfortable, open-toed shoes. You walk into a shoe store and tell the salesperson, “I would like to try on some sandels.” Immediately, the salesperson will be confused, as this word does not exist in standard English. However, if you say, “I would like to try on some sandals,” the salesperson will quickly understand what you are looking for.

Another example can be found in written communication. Suppose you are writing an email to your friend describing your recent vacation. If you mention that you walked along the sandy beaches wearing your “sandels,” your friend might be momentarily puzzled by the unfamiliarity of the word. But if you use the correct spelling, writing about your “sandals” will make perfect sense.

In conclusion, the correct spelling is “sandals,” not “sandels.” This spelling conforms to standard English grammar and usage, and it is consistent with how the word has evolved over time. Remember, whenever you are in doubt about the correct spelling of a word, it is always a good idea to consult a reliable dictionary or online resources. By doing so, you can ensure that your communication is accurate and that you avoid any confusion or misunderstandings. So, next time you slip on a pair of open-toed shoes, make sure to refer to them as “sandals” rather than “sandels” to demonstrate your mastery of the English language.