Why is "by" spelled this way?

Discover the logic behind this word and learn how understanding spelling patterns can transform your writing confidence.

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

byRule: I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllable, Y says long I at end of one-syllable wordsSpelling rules applied: I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllable, Y says long I at end of one-syllable words

Step 2: Words Spelt From by

Step 3: Putting It All Together

by- Near or next to something.

Spelling Notes

This is a one-syllable word where the 'y' says its long 'i' sound, as in 'ice'. Rule 11a states that 'Y at the end of one-syllable words says its long I sound.' So, 'by' sounds like 'bi' because of this rule. Remembering this rule will help you spell other words ending in 'y' that have a long 'i' sound.

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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