How to Spell Column

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 22 Feb 2024

Understanding the correct spelling of commonly miswritten words is essential for clear communication. This article focuses on the proper spelling of "column," a word often misspelled, and provides helpful tips to ensure accuracy in your writing.

Correct Spelling of Column

The correct spelling of the word is column. A common error is to misspell it as "collum" or other variations. It is important to remember that the correct spelling contains a "u" after the "l" and ends in "mn," despite the "n" being silent when pronounced. This spelling is consistent across all English-speaking countries and is the accepted form in both academic and professional settings.

How can remember the correct spelling

A useful technique for remembering the correct spelling of column is to associate the word with an image of a tall, structural column, highlighting its unique 'u' shape in your mind. Another method is to break the word down phonetically, honing in on the silent 'n' at the end, which can often be a tricky part to remember.

Common Spelling Mistakes

  • Collum - Adding an extra 'l' and using 'um' instead of 'um'.
  • Colomn - Misplacing the 'n' within the word.
  • Columnn - Incorrectly doubling the final 'n'.

These misspellings are considered incorrect because they deviate from the standard spelling used in all English lexicons. The correct form, "column," is derived from Latin and has retained its spelling through centuries, making consistency key.

Definition and Etymology of Column

The word column refers to a vertical, cylindrical pillar that supports a structure or stands alone as a monument. Its etymology can be traced back to Latin 'columna,' signifying a supporting pillar. The term has evolved in English to encompass a variety of meanings, including a vertical division in a page or a regular feature in a periodical. Understanding the word's root and its journey into the English language can enrich your comprehension and usage.

Transcription of Column

In phonetic transcription, column is represented as /ˈkɒləm/. This helps in understanding the pronunciation, particularly the silent 'n' at the end of the word. Phonetics can provide a clear guide to the correct pronunciation, aiding in the memory of the word's spelling through its sounds.

Examples of Using of Column

  • The ancient Greeks were known for the distinctive columns in their architecture.
  • She writes a weekly advice column in the local newspaper.
  • The data was organized into different columns for clarity.

These examples show the versatility of the word "column" in different contexts, from architecture to writing and data presentation.

FAQ

What does the word mean? 
It refers to a vertical, cylindrical structure or a division in text.

Words Closely Related: pillar, post, article.

Synonyms: shaft, spindle, support.

There is no difference in the spelling of "column" between American and British English. The word is spelled and pronounced the same in both varieties, making it one of the many words that maintain consistency across English dialects.

In Which Academic Dictionaries Can You Find the Word Column?

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


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