Why is "customer" spelled this way?

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

customer

cus•tomer

Step 1: Syllable Breakdown

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

tomerRule: O makes schwa before W, TH, M, N, V, Drop silent E before vowel suffix (with exceptions)Spelling rules applied: O makes schwa before W, TH, M, N, V, Drop silent E before vowel suffix (with exceptions)

Step 2: Words Spelt From customer

custom= A usual or habitual practice.

Step 3: Putting It All Together

customer- A person who buys goods or services from a shop or business.

Spelling Notes

This word has three syllables: 'cus-to-mer'. The 'o' in the second syllable makes a short 'u' (schwa) sound as in 'mother' (Rule 28b). This is because it's before an 'm'. The 'er' ending is a common suffix. Understanding the syllable structure and the schwa sound 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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