Why is "common" spelled this way?

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

common

com•mon

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

comRule: Schwa sound in unstressed syllablesSpelling rules applied: Schwa sound in unstressed syllables

monRule: O makes schwa before W, TH, M, N, VSpelling rules applied: O makes schwa before W, TH, M, N, V

Step 2: Words Spelt From common

commun= Shared by all or many.

Step 3: Putting It All Together

common- Occurring often or existing in large numbers.

Spelling Notes

This word has two syllables: 'com-mon'. The 'o' in the first syllable makes a short 'o' sound. The 'o' in the second syllable makes a schwa sound, like a weak 'uh' (Rule 28a), because it's in an unstressed syllable. Rule 28b also applies here: 'o' makes a short 'u' (schwa) sound before 'm' and 'n'.

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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