Why is "child" spelled this way?

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

child
child

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

childRule: I and O long before two consonants, I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllableSpelling rules applied: I and O long before two consonants, I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllable

Step 2: Words Spelt From child

Step 3: Putting It All Together

child- A young human being below the age of puberty.

Spelling Notes

The 'i' in 'child' says its long 'i' sound because it is followed by two consonants, 'l' and 'd'. Rule 6 states that 'I and O can sometimes say their long sound (their name) when followed by two consonants'. Therefore, 'child' follows this rule, making the 'i' sound like 'eye'.

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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