How to Spell Independent

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 16 Feb 2024

This article serves as a comprehensive guide to help individuals grasp the correct spelling of one of the English language's most empowering words: independent. Whether you're a writer, student, or anyone aiming to refine their expertise in English, understanding this word's correct spelling and usage is crucial.

Correct Spelling of Independent

The correct spelling of the word is independent. It is often misspelled due to confusion about the number of 'e's and 'n's it contains. Remember, it includes three 'e's and two 'n's. This word is used to describe someone or something not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion, conduct, etc., or not subject to another's authority or jurisdiction.

How to Remember the Correct Spelling

A simple trick to remember the spelling of independent is to break it down into sounds: in-de-pend-ent. Think of a strong individual who 'depends' on 'no one else'. This mnemonic captures the essence of being independent while helping you recall the sequence and number of letters.

Common Spelling Mistakes

  • Indipendent - Incorrect because it swaps the 'e' for an 'i', which changes the sound and meaning.
  • Independant - This mistake happens due to confusion with the pronunciation. The correct spelling ends with 'ent', not 'ant'.

These common mistakes usually stem from phonetic misunderstandings or incorrect mnemonic devices.

Definition and Etymology of Independent

The word independent is used to describe someone or something that is not influenced by others in matters of opinion, conduct, and not subject to another's authority. It stems from the Latin words 'in' meaning 'not' and 'dependere' meaning 'to hang from,' literally meaning not hanging from anyone or anything or not depending on any external support.

Transcription of Independent

The phonetic transcription of independent is /ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt/. It is important to note the stress on the second syllable, which is key to pronouncing the word correctly.

Examples of Using Independent

  • She has always been fiercely independent and made her own decisions.
  • The independent film festival showcases movies from around the world.
  • He opened an independent coffee shop in the neighborhood.

FAQ

What does the word mean? 
It refers to someone or something not influenced or controlled by others, able to make their own decisions.

Words Closely Related: autonomous, self-reliant, self-sufficient.

Synonyms: free, self-governing, sovereign.

Differences Between American and British Versions

The word independent is spelled the same in both American and British English. There are no variations in spelling, making it one of the many words that remain consistent across both versions of English. However, pronunciation and usage in phrases might slightly vary with accents and regional dialects.

In Which Academic Dictionaries Can You Find the Word Independent?

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


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