Strangely or Strangly – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the correct spelling of the word meaning “in a strange manner,” the answer is quite simple: “strangely” is the correct form. Although “Strangly” might seem like a plausible alternative, it is, in fact, an incorrect spelling of the word. Let’s learn the reasons why “strangely” is the appropriate choice and explore some examples to illustrate this point.
The first and most important reason why “strangely” is correct is linguistic consistency. English has certain spelling rules and patterns that we must adhere to, and “strangely” follows these conventions. The adverbial form of an adjective is typically created by adding the suffix “-ly.” For instance, when we want to transform the adjective “quick” into an adverb, we add “-ly” to create “quickly.” Similarly, the adjective “strange” becomes “strangely” when used in an adverbial sense. Using the incorrect spelling “strangly” would deviate from this general pattern and create confusion for readers.
Let’s examine some examples to further illustrate this argument. Consider the sentence: “He looked at her strangely.” In this case, the adverb “strangely” is used to describe how he looked at her. Using the incorrect spelling “strangly” would make the sentence grammatically incorrect and confuse the reader, detracting from the intended meaning. By using the correct form, the sentence becomes clear and flows naturally.
In addition to linguistic consistency, “strangely” is the accepted form because it aligns with how we pronounce the word. English spelling can sometimes be irregular, but in this case, the spelling of “strangely” perfectly represents how we say the word. If we were to spell it as “strangly,” it would not accurately reflect the pronunciation, leading to potential confusion and misinterpretation.
To reinforce the point further, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario. Imagine you are at a dinner party, discussing a peculiar incident that occurred earlier in the day. You want to highlight the oddity of the situation and express that it was an unusual turn of events. To convey this, you might say, “Strangely enough, just as I was leaving the house, my neighbor’s dog began to sing.” By using the correct form of the adverb, “strangely,” you effectively convey your message and engage the listeners. However, if you were to say, “Strangly enough,” it would sound off, leaving your audience puzzled and distracted from the main point of your story.
In conclusion, “strangely” is the correct spelling and usage when referring to something happening in a strange manner. By adhering to linguistic consistency, reflecting pronunciation, and providing clarity to readers, “strangely” becomes the obvious choice. Remember, the English language has many nuances, but by understanding and following the rules, we can communicate effectively and avoid confusion. So, next time you encounter a situation that demands the use of this adverb, don’t be swayed by the similar-looking, yet incorrect, “strangly” – trust in the correct form and express your thoughts confidently.