How to Spell Amateur
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Eseandre Mordi
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22 Feb 2024
Exploring the correct spelling and usage of a commonly misconstrued word, this article sheds light on "amateur," dispelling common errors and providing insights into its correct application and origins.
Correct Spelling of Amateur
The correct spelling of the word is amateur. It is often mistakenly spelled as "amature," but this variant is incorrect. The term "amateur" comes from French and is used in English to describe someone who engages in particular activities out of passion rather than for professional or financial reasons. It is essential to spell this word correctly to maintain the integrity of your writing.
How to Remember the Correct Spelling
A handy way to remember the correct spelling of "amateur" is by breaking it down into parts: ama-teur. Think of the word "amateur" as someone who loves (ama) what they do, but isn't necessarily a "tour" (a professional) at it. Associating the word with love and passion can help cement its spelling in your mind.
Common Spelling Mistakes
- Amature - Incorrect because it swaps the correct "-teur" ending for "-ture."
- Amatuer - Incorrect because of the transposition error of 'u' and 'e'.
These common errors stem from mishearing the word or misunderstanding its French origins, which influence its correct spelling.
Definition and Etymology of Amateur
The word amateur describes someone who engages in a pursuit, especially a sport, on an unpaid basis, contrasting with a professional. It originated in the late 18th century from French, derived from the Latin "amator," meaning lover, which in turn comes from "amare," to love. This etymology reflects the passion amateurs have for their activities, often pursued without financial compensation.
Transcription of Amateur
The pronunciation of amateur in phonetic transcription is /ˈamətər/ (AmE) or /ˈamətjʊər/ (BrE), with stress placed on the first syllable. The differences in American and British pronunciation highlight the diverse influences on English and underscore the importance of context in pronunciation practices.
Examples of Using of Amateur
- Despite being an amateur, her paintings garnered attention from several galleries.
- He joined the chess club as an amateur but quickly rose through the ranks.
- The film festival encourages amateur filmmakers to submit their work.
FAQ
What does the word mean?It refers to a person engaging in a particular activity on an unpaid, non-professional basis, often out of passion.
Words Closely Related: enthusiast, hobbyist, nonprofessional.
Synonyms: novice, beginner, layman.
Difference in American and British Versions
While the spelling of "amateur" remains the same in both American and British English, the pronunciation can differ. In American English, it is commonly pronounced as /ˈamətər/, focusing on a more simplified ending. In contrast, British English often adopts a more French-influenced pronunciation, /ˈamətjʊər/, with a slight flourish at the end. These variations underline the adaptability of English and its capacity to incorporate diverse phonetic influences.
Find This Word in Academic Dictionaries
- Oxford English Dictionary.
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
- Cambridge Dictionary.
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