When it comes to the spelling of certain words, it’s common to find variations that confuse even the most proficient English speakers. One such word that often stirs up confusion is “debateable” or “debatable.” Many people are unsure which spelling is correct, and this uncertainty can lead to errors in written communication. So, let’s unravel this linguistic mystery and determine the correct spelling once and for all.
The correct spelling is “debatable.” Although “debateable” may seem plausible at first glance, it is actually the less preferred and less accepted spelling according to modern English language conventions. This can be attributed to a principle in English spelling: the “e” is generally dropped when adding a suffix that begins with a vowel, such as “-able.”
For instance, when the noun “debate” transforms into an adjective, it loses the “e” and becomes “debatable.” This principle follows a common pattern in English spelling where silent or unnecessary letters are eliminated to simplify the language. Other examples include “loveable” (not “loveeable”) or “moveable” (not “moveeable”).
To further illustrate this point, let’s examine a few more examples. We say “manageable” (not “manageeable”), “tolerable” (not “tolerabble”), and “remarkable” (not “remarkeable”). In each case, the silent “e” is dropped when adding the “-able” suffix, adhering to the general rule of English spelling.
Moreover, looking at the etymology of the word “debatable” provides additional evidence for its correct spelling. The word originates from the verb “debate,” meaning to discuss or argue. In the process of transforming this verb into an adjective, the “e” is dropped, resulting in “debatable.”
As an IELTS tutor and language expert, I often encounter students who struggle with this particular spelling. To help them navigate through this confusion, I like to provide them with handy techniques they can apply to other words as well.
One such technique is to consider the presence of similar words with the “-able” suffix. By examining words like “adorable,” “comfortable,” and “desirable,” it becomes apparent that the spelling pattern is consistent. These words all drop the “e” before adding “-able,” reinforcing the correct spelling of “debatable.”
In conclusion, the correct spelling is “debatable.” While “debateable” may appear plausible, it does not adhere to the general principles of English spelling. By dropping the “e” before adding the “-able” suffix, we maintain consistency and simplicity in our written language. So, the next time you find yourself in a debate about the spelling of “debatable,” you can confidently declare that the correct spelling is “debatable.”