Auxiliary or Auxillary – Which is Correct?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were unsure whether to use “auxiliary” or “auxillary”? It’s a common dilemma, and one that many English learners and even native speakers struggle with. In this article, I’ll provide you with a clear explanation of the correct usage of these words and give you some examples to help you understand when to use each one.
Let’s start by addressing the common misconception that “auxillary” is an alternative spelling of “auxiliary.” The truth is, “auxillary” is an incorrect spelling, and you should always use “auxiliary” instead. The word “auxiliary” is derived from the Latin word “auxiliaris,” which means “helping or assisting.” It serves as an adjective or a noun, depending on how it is used in a sentence.
As an adjective, “auxiliary” is used to describe something that provides additional help or support. For example:
– Mary used her auxiliary power generator during the blackout.
– The teacher provided auxiliary materials to supplement the textbook.
On the other hand, as a noun, “auxiliary” refers to a person or thing that assists or supports something or someone else. Here are a couple of examples:
– The army sent its auxiliaries to aid the local police in maintaining public order.
– The hikers relied on their auxiliary compass when their main one broke.
Now that we have established the correct spelling and usage of “auxiliary,” let’s take a closer look at when it is commonly used in English. One of the most common applications of this word is in relation to grammar. In English, auxiliary verbs are used to form tenses, moods, and voices in a sentence.
For instance, the verb “to be” is often used as an auxiliary verb. Consider the following examples:
– She is studying for her exams. (“is” is the auxiliary verb used to form the present continuous tense)
– They were playing soccer in the park. (“were” is the auxiliary verb used to form the past continuous tense)
Other common auxiliary verbs include “have,” “do,” and “will.” Here are some examples of their usage:
– I have finished my homework. (“have” is the auxiliary verb used to form the present perfect tense)
– Does she like chocolate? (“does” is the auxiliary verb used to form questions in the present simple tense)
– He will be arriving shortly. (“will” is the auxiliary verb used to form the future continuous tense)
In summary, “auxiliary” is the correct spelling, and “auxillary” is incorrect. As an adjective, “auxiliary” describes something that provides extra help or support, while as a noun, it refers to a person or thing that assists or supports something else. Additionally, “auxiliary” is commonly used in grammar as an auxiliary verb to form tenses, moods, and voices in a sentence. By understanding the correct usage of this word, you can confidently communicate in English and avoid any confusion.
So next time you find yourself unsure about whether to use “auxiliary” or “auxillary,” remember that “auxillary” is incorrect, and “auxiliary” is the word you should choose. With this newfound knowledge, you can elevate your English language skills to new heights. Happy learning!