How to Spell Assassin

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 22 Feb 2024

This article provides a comprehensive examination of the correct spelling, common errors, and memory aids for the word 'assassin'. This precise and intriguing word has a rich history and significant importance in literature and history.

Correct Spelling of Assassin

The assassin is often misspelled due to its unusual double 's' and 's' sounds. However, the correct spelling is assassin. This word requires attention to its duplicated 's' to ensure accuracy in writing. The spelling is straightforward once you become familiar with it, allowing for its correct use in all contexts.

How to Remember the Correct Spelling

A useful mnemonic to remember assassin's spelling is "An assassin has double 's' sins." This phrase emphasizes the doubled 's' in both halves of the word, serving as an easy memory aid. Repetitive writing and reading of the word can also solidify its spelling in one's memory.

Common Spelling Mistakes

  • Assasin - Missing the second 's' is a frequent error due to misremembering the double 's' rule.
  • Assasine - Incorrectly adding an 'e' at the end, confusing its ending with other English words.
  • Asassin - Misplacing the double 's' after the 'a', which disrupts the correct order of letters.

These spellings are considered incorrect because they do not align with the historical and standardized spelling of assassin.

Definition and Etymology of Assassin

The word assassin refers to a murderer, especially one who kills politically prominent figures by surprise attack. Historically, it's believed to derive from the Arabic 'hashashin', meaning 'users of hashish', which was used during the Crusades to refer to a specific group of Muslim fighters who were noted for their tactics of targeting political and military leaders. Over time, the term has evolved in its use and context, carrying a charged and specific meaning in various languages.

Transcription of Assassin

The pronunciation of assassin can be transcribed in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /əˈsæs.ɪn/. This transcription helps to understand the division of syllables and the stress pattern in the word, providing a blueprint for its accurate pronunciation in English. Pronouncing it correctly involves emphasizing the second syllable slightly more than the first.

Examples of Using of Assassin

  • The novel featured a mysterious assassin who moved through the dark alleys of medieval Europe.
  • Historical records often describe the tactics used by assassins in ancient political coups.
  • In the game, players must outwit an assassin sent to thwart their mission.

These examples showcase the various contexts in which the word assassin can be used, highlighting its versatility and descriptive power.

FAQ

What does the word mean? 
An assassin is a person who commits murder, especially one who kills a politically crucial figure by a sudden or secret attack.

Words Closely Related: murderer, killer, hitman.

Synonyms: executioner, slayer, homicide.

There is no difference in the spelling of assassin between American and British English. Both varieties of the English language use the same spelling and pronunciation, showcasing its universal acceptance and use.

Academic Dictionaries Where You Can Find This Word

  1. Oxford English Dictionary.
  2. Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary.
  3. American Heritage Dictionary.
  4. Collins English Dictionary.


#Grammar #Spelling #EnglishLanguage #Vocabulary #Assassin

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