Essential or Essencial – Which is Correct?
Are you ever confused about whether to use “essential” or “essencial”? Do you find yourself hesitating, wondering if you’re making a mistake? Well, fear not! I’m here to shed some light on this common language dilemma.
Let’s begin by clarifying the correct spelling: “essential” is the correct form of the word. This is the more widely accepted spelling across English-speaking countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and Canada. “Essencial,” on the other hand, is not a recognized spelling and is considered incorrect.
So, why do people get confused and mistakenly spell it as “essencial”? One possible reason is the influence of other languages, particularly Portuguese. In Portuguese, the word for “essential” is indeed spelled as “essencial.” This similarity in spelling might lead non-native English speakers to assume that the same spelling holds true in English. However, it’s important to remember that each language has its own unique set of rules and conventions.
To further clarify, let’s learn the definition and usage of the correct form, “essential.” In English, “essential” is an adjective that describes something that is absolutely necessary or indispensable. It conveys the notion of being fundamental, vital, or crucial to the existence, functioning, or nature of something.
Here are some examples to illustrate its usage:
1. Water is essential for life.
2. Good communication skills are essential for success in any profession.
3. Vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining a healthy body.
4. The candidate’s experience and qualifications are essential for this job position.
5. Rest and relaxation are essential for overall well-being.
As you can see, “essential” is a versatile word that can be applied to various situations, from describing basic needs to highlighting crucial aspects of a particular context.
Now, going back to “essencial,” even though it is not a proper English word, its influence on English usage has resulted in some variations and misspellings. In informal contexts or regional dialects, you might come across instances where “essencial” is used. However, it’s important to note that such usage is considered nonstandard and should be avoided in formal writing or in standardized tests such as the IELTS exam.
To sum up, the correct spelling is “essential,” and it is the widely accepted form in English-speaking countries. “Essencial” is not a recognized word in English, even though its similarity in spelling to other languages might lead to confusion. Remember to use “essential” when describing something fundamental or indispensable, and be mindful of the impact of using nonstandard variations in formal writing.
In conclusion, the proper spelling and usage of “essential” should no longer be an area of confusion for you. By understanding the correct form and its definition, as well as being aware of common variations and misspellings, you can confidently express yourself in English and avoid any unnecessary errors. So go ahead and embrace the English language with all its essential words!