How Do You Spell Stopped?

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 19 Feb 2024

Understanding the correct spelling of commonly mispelled words can significantly improve your writing clarity and professionalism. In this article, we delve into the correct spelling of "stopped," a word often used yet frequently misspelled. Through exploring its correct spelling, common mistakes, and origins, we aim to enhance your written communication.

Correct Spelling of Stopped

The correct spelling of the word is stopped. This spelling adheres to the general rule of doubling the final consonant in one-syllable verbs ending with a single vowel followed by a consonant when adding "-ed" to indicate the past tense. Therefore, "stop" becomes stopped. This rule is consistent with many other verbs in the English language, making "stopped" the only correct form of the word in its past tense.

How Can Remember the Correct Spelling

One effective technique to remember the correct spelling of "stopped" is by internalizing the rule of doubling the final consonant before adding "-ed" for verbs ending with a single vowel followed by a consonant. Practicing writing the word several times can also help reinforce its spelling. Additionally, using the word in your daily writing or conversations will help commit the correct spelling to memory.

Common Spelling Mistakes

The most common spelling mistakes for "stopped" include 'stoped' and 'stoppped'. 'Stoped' omits the necessary doubling of the 'p', while 'stoppped' adds an unnecessary extra 'p'. Both errors result from misunderstanding the rule of doubling the final consonant in the base verb when it ends in a single vowel followed by a consonant before adding "-ed".

Definition and Etymology of Stopped

The word "stopped" is the past tense and past participle of "stop", meaning to cease movement or action. Its usage dates back to the early 14th century, deriving from the Old English "stoppian," which means to stop or obstruct. Over centuries, the spelling and application of the word have evolved, but its core meaning remains. This historical context highlights the word's significance and adaptability in the English language.

Transcription of Stopped

The phonetic transcription of "stopped" is /ˈstɒpt/ in British English and /ˈstɑːpt/ in American English. The transcription provides a guide on how the word is pronounced, emphasizing the short, clipped sound of the 'o' in British English and a slightly broader 'a' sound in American English. This notation is helpful for non-native speakers or anyone looking to refine their pronunciation of the word.

Examples of Using of Stopped

  • She stopped by the store on her way home from work.
  • The rain had finally stopped, allowing the picnic to commence.
  • He stopped the car abruptly to avoid hitting the stray dog.
  • The clock stopped working at precisely midnight.
  • They stopped talking when the teacher entered the room.

FAQ

What does the word mean? 
Stopped refers to the action of ceasing movement or coming to a halt.

Words Closely Related: halted, paused, ceased.

Synonyms: ended, discontinued, terminated.

The Difference in American and British Versions

While the spelling of "stopped" remains the same in both American and British English, the pronunciation slightly differs. American English pronounces it with a broader 'a' sound (/ˈstɑːpt/), whereas British English uses a shorter 'o' sound (/ˈstɒpt/). These pronunciation differences do not affect the spelling but are useful for understanding regional variations.

In Which Academic Dictionaries You Can Find This Word

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


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