Why is "capital" spelled this way?

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

capital

cap•i•tal

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

capAll first soundsEach letter makes their first sound.

iRule: I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllableSpelling rules applied: I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllable

talRule: A says 'ah' after W, before L, or at word end, Drop silent E before vowel suffix (with exceptions), Schwa sound in unstressed syllablesSpelling rules applied: A says 'ah' after W, before L, or at word end, Drop silent E before vowel suffix (with exceptions), Schwa sound in unstressed syllables

Step 2: Words Spelt From capital

cap= Head or chief.

Step 3: Putting It All Together

capital- The most important city or town of a country or region.

Spelling Notes

This word has three syllables: 'cap-i-tal'. The 'a' in the first syllable has a short 'a' sound. The 'i' in the second syllable can say a short 'i' sound (Rule 7). Breaking the word into syllables helps you hear each sound clearly, making it easier to spell. Remember to pronounce each syllable distinctly as you spell it: 'cap-i-tal'.

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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