How Do You Spell Damage?

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 26 Feb 2024

Spelling is fundamental to effective communication, and even commonly used words like "damage" can sometimes trip us up. This article dives into the correct spelling of "damage", its common misspellings, and helpful tips for remembering the correct spelling.

Correct Spelling of Damage

The correct spelling of the word is damage. This term is often used in both legal and everyday language to refer to harm or injury caused to someone or something, reducing its value or usefulness. It is important to spell it correctly to maintain the integrity and clarity of communication.

How to Remember the Correct Spelling

To remember the spelling of damage, note that it ends with "-age," a common suffix associated with conditions or results of an action, similar to "package" or "voltage." This can help anchor the correct spelling in your memory.

Common Spelling Mistakes

  • Dammage - Adding an extra "m" is a mistake likely stemming from incorrect phonetic interpretation.
  • Demage - Misinterpreting the first vowel sound can lead to this common error.

These spellings are incorrect because they do not conform to the recognized English spelling of the word, which can lead to misunderstandings in written communication.

Definition and Etymology of Damage

The term damage refers to the loss or harm that impairs the value, usefulness, or normal function of something. It originates from the Middle English "damagen," which in turn comes from the Old French "damager," meaning to cause loss to. The root of these words is the Latin "damnum," meaning loss or harm.

Transcription of Damage

The phonetic transcription of damage is /ˈdæm.ɪdʒ/. This transcription helps to understand the correct pronunciation of the word, which is essential for accurate spelling when writing from dictation or speaking.

Examples of Using Damage

  • The flood caused significant damage to the coastal town.
  • Accidental damage to the property is covered by their insurance policy.
  • She was awarded compensation for the emotional damage suffered.

FAQ

What does the word mean? 
Loss or harm that impairs functionality, value, or usefulness.

Words Closely Related: harm, destruction, injury, detriment.

Synonyms: harm, injury, destruction, detriment.

There is no difference in the spelling of damage between American and British English. Both versions use the same spelling for this word, ensuring consistency in written communication across English-speaking regions.

In Which Academic Dictionaries You Can Find This Word

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


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