Why is "buy" spelled this way?
Discover the logic behind this word and learn how understanding spelling patterns can transform your writing confidence.
Step 1: Syllable Breakdown
Step 2: Words Spelt From buy
Step 3: Putting It All Together
Spelling Notes
This one-syllable word has a long 'i' sound. Rule 11a states that 'Y at the end of one-syllable words says its long I sound.' In this case, the 'y' at the end of 'buy' makes the long 'i' sound, even though it's preceded by a 'u'. This is an exception to the rule that 'i' and 'y' can say either a short 'i' or a long 'i' sound (Rule 7), but Rule 11a takes precedence because it's at the end of the word.
Breaking words down into their syllables and analyzing why a word is spelled the way it is will drive you to be a better all-around speller, not just learning this single word. This is what strong spellers do subconsciously.
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