Why is "cancer" spelled this way?

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

cancer

can•cer

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

canAll first soundsEach letter makes their first sound.

cerRule: C is soft (s sound) before E, I, Y; hard (k sound) elsewhereSpelling rules applied: C is soft (s sound) before E, I, Y; hard (k sound) elsewhere

Step 2: Words Spelt From cancer

cancr= Crab or creeping ulcer.

Step 3: Putting It All Together

cancer- A disease where cells grow uncontrollably and can spread.

Spelling Notes

Break this word into two syllables: 'can-cer'. The 'c' in 'can' has a hard 'k' sound because it is not followed by an 'e', 'i', or 'y'. The 'c' in 'cer' also has a hard 'k' sound because it is not followed by an 'e', 'i', or 'y'. Remembering the syllable structure and the 'k' sound of 'c' helps with spelling.

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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