Stubbornness or Stubborness – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the proper spelling of the word that describes the quality of being obstinate or unyielding, we often come to a fork in the road. Should it be spelled “stubbornness” or “stubborness”? Let’s settle this once and for all.
The correct spelling is “stubbornness.” This is the widely accepted form of the word and is consistently used in dictionaries, grammar references, and formal writing. It maintains the integrity of the word’s root, “stubborn,” while adding the suffix “-ness” to indicate a state or quality. Using “stubborness” would be an incorrect variation, as it deviates from the standard spelling and can be considered a misspelling or a typographical error.
To further understand why “stubbornness” is correct, let’s explore the concept of suffixes and their impact on word formation. In English, we often add suffixes to base words to change their meaning or to create new words. The suffix “-ness” is commonly used to form abstract nouns from adjectives, indicating the state, quality, or condition of the adjective. It is used in words like kindness, happiness, and sadness. By following this established pattern, we arrive at “stubbornness” when applying the suffix to the adjective “stubborn.”
Furthermore, we can examine the etymology of the word “stubborn” to gain additional insight into its correct spelling. “Stubborn” originated from the combination of the Middle English words “stiborn” (meaning “obstinate” or “unmanageable”) and “born” (meaning “borne” or “carried”). Over time, it evolved into its current form, and the suffix “-ness” was added to describe the quality of being obstinate or unyielding. This historical context solidifies the spelling of “stubbornness” as the correct choice.
To reinforce the correct spelling, let’s consider a few examples of its usage:
1. His stubbornness prevented him from accepting other people’s suggestions.
2. Despite the numerous warnings, her stubbornness insisted on taking the risky path.
3. The teacher praised the student for his perseverance and stubbornness in solving the difficult problem.
In these examples, “stubbornness” is the appropriate term to express the unyielding nature of a person’s behavior or attitude. It is important to note that using “stubborness” here would be grammatically incorrect and may lead to confusion or misunderstandings in written communication.
In conclusion, the correct spelling of the word that encapsulates the quality of being obstinate or unyielding is “stubbornness.” It aligns with the established rules of word formation and is widely accepted in English language usage. So, let’s put an end to the uncertainty and embrace the correct spelling without any stubbornness of our own!