Decide or Deside – Which is Correct?
Let’s dive straight into the question at hand – which is correct, “decide” or “deside”? Well, the correct spelling is indeed “decide”. “Deside” is actually a misspelling, and any IELTS tutor or English language expert would agree on this.
The word “decide” is derived from the Latin word “decidere”, which means “to cut off”. It conveys the idea of making a choice or reaching a resolution. This verb is inextricably linked to decision-making and plays an essential role in expressing our intentions and preferences.
To understand why “deside” is incorrect, let’s consider the spelling rules and patterns of the English language. Firstly, the letter “e” in “decide” represents the short vowel sound /ɪ/, which is distinct from the long vowel sound /iː/ represented by the letter “i”. The letter “i” in “deside” would suggest a long vowel sound, which changes the pronunciation entirely.
Secondly, the conjugation of the verb “decide” demonstrates another aspect of language rules. In the present tense, we say “I decide”, “you decide”, “he/she/it decides”, etc. The letter “s” is added to the third-person singular form, indicating agreement with the subject. If “deside” were a valid word, we would expect the sentence “he/she/it desides” to be grammatically correct. However, this is not the case, as it deviates from the conventional rules of verb conjugation.
To strengthen our understanding, let’s explore some examples of the correct usage of “decide” in everyday conversations:
1. “I can’t decide which movie to watch tonight. Shall we go for a comedy or a thriller?”
2. “After much consideration, Mary decided to pursue a career in medicine.”
3. “Tom decided to take a gap year to travel and explore different cultures.”
In these examples, we see how “decide” is used to express the process of making choices, showing the decision-maker’s will and determination.
Furthermore, using “decide” correctly showcases your proficiency in the English language, a proficiency that would impress examiners during an IELTS speaking or writing test. Demonstrating a strong command of spelling and grammar is essential to achieve a higher band score.
To summarize, the correct spelling is “decide,” while “deside” is an incorrect form of the word. Understanding the rules of English language and grammar empowers individuals to express themselves accurately and effectively. So, the next time you encounter a decision-making situation, remember to use the correct spelling, “decide”, and impress others with your language skills. Keep practicing and honing your English language skills, and you’ll soon see the rewards in your IELTS exam performance and beyond!