Why is "continue" spelled this way?

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

continue

con•tin•ue

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

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

tinRule: TI, CI, SI only at syllable start, not word start, I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllableSpelling rules applied: TI, CI, SI only at syllable start, not word start, I and Y can say short or long 'i' in syllable

ueRule: Words don't end with I, U, V, or J, Silent E prevents words ending in V or USpelling rules applied: Words don't end with I, U, V, or J, Silent E prevents words ending in V or U

Step 2: Words Spelt From continue

ten= Hold or stretch.

Step 3: Putting It All Together

continue- To carry on or keep going with something.

Spelling Notes

This word follows Rule 5b (silent final E). Even though there is no 'e' at the end, remember that English words do not end in 'u'. The 'con-tin-ue' structure shows how the word is broken into syllables, and the 'u' sound is clear in the final syllable. Visualise an imaginary 'e' at the end to help you remember the 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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