How Do You Spell 85?

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 22 Feb 2024

Defining the proper spelling of numbers, particularly when they make the leap from digits to words, can often catch many off guard. This article aims to delve into the correct spelling of 85, offering insights and guidance for those looking to ensure their grammar on numbers is beyond reproach.

Correct Spelling of 85

Compounded of two words, "eighty" and "five," it combines a base number (eight) followed by a unit number (five) to create a composite numeral. When writing out numbers in full, it’s crucial to remember the hyphen, making it "eighty-five" rather than "eighty five" or "eightfive."

How can remember the correct spelling

To easily remember the correct spelling of eighty-five, break the number down into its constituent parts: "eighty" and "five." Another helpful strategy is to recall that numbers from 21 through 99, when spelled out, often require a hyphen between the tens and the units. This mnemonic aids in reminding one of the proper construction of numbers within this range.

Common spelling mistakes

  • Eigthy-five: Missing the correct placement of the letter 'h' in "eighty".
  • 85: While not technically a spelling mistake, relying solely on numerals when the context calls for spelled-out numbers.
  • Eightyfive: Omitting the hyphen between "eighty" and "five".

These errors stem from common overlooks in the structure of compound numbers and a misunderstanding of when to use numerals versus written words.

Definition and Etymology of 85

The number 85 is defined as the cardinal number that comes after 84 and before 86. It is a composite numeral in the English language, made by combining the two separate numbers: "eighty," indicating eight tens, and "five," one of the five base digits. The etymology of "eighty" traces back to Old English "eahta(tig)," where "eahta" means "eight" + "tig," a suffix used to form multiples of ten. Similarly, "five" comes from the Old English "fif," which has roots in Proto-Germanic languages. The hyphenated form "eighty-five" ensures clarity and consistency in spelling out compound numbers.

Transcription of 85

The phonetic transcription for eighty-five is /ˈeɪ.ti faɪv/. This transcription helps inform pronunciation, breaking down the sounds associated with the spelled-out numeral. This can be particularly helpful for those learning English as a second language or for anyone looking to perfect their pronunciation of numbers.

Examples of Using of 85

  • The recipe calls for eighty-five grams of flour.
  • She finished the race in eighty-five seconds, setting a new school record.
  • At the age of eighty-five, the author published his autobiography.
  • The survey revealed that eighty-five percent of the participants prefer online shopping.
  • I have collected all but one, leaving me with eighty-five out of eighty-six.

FAQ

What does the word mean?
The word represents the cardinal numeral used to denote the quantity equal to 8 tens and 5 ones.

Words Closely Related: eighty (denoting 8 tens), five (a prime number following four).

Synonyms: 85 (as a numeral).

Difference Between the Words in American and British Versions

The spelling of the number 85 does not differ between American and British English, maintaining consistency as "eighty-five" in both dialects. However, it's important to note that the use of numerals versus spelled-out numbers can vary based on style guides and personal or regional preference in different forms of English.

Academic Dictionaries

  1. Oxford English Dictionary.
  2. Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
  3. Cambridge Dictionary.


#Grammar #Spelling #Numbers #English

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