Below is a list of commonly misspelled words. You probably use these words every day in either speaking or writing. Each word has a segment in bold type, which indicates the problem area of the word that is often spelled incorrectly. If you can, use this list as a guide before, during, and after you write.
Table 3.1 Commonly Misspelled Words
| across disappoint integration particular separateaddress disapprove intelligent perform similaranswer doesn’t interest perhaps sinceargument eighth interfere personnel speechathlete embarrass jewelry possess strengthbeginning environment judgment possible successbehavior exaggerate knowledge prefer surprisecalendar familiar maintain prejudice taughtcareer finally mathematics privilege temperatureconscience government meant probably thoroughcrowded grammar necessary psychology thoughtdefinite height nervous pursue tireddescribe illegal occasion reference untildesperate immediately opinion rhythm weightdifferent important optimist ridiculous written |
Writing at Work
In today’s job market, writing e-mails has become a means by which many people find employment. E-mails to prospective employers require thoughtful word choice, accurate spelling, and perfect punctuation. Employers’ inboxes are inundated with countless e-mails daily. If even the subject line of an e-mail contains a spelling error, it will likely be overlooked and someone else’s e-mail will take priority.
The best thing to do after you proofread an e-mail to an employer and run the spell checker is to have an additional set of eyes go over it with you; one of your teachers may be able to read the e-mail and give you suggestions for improvement. Most colleges and universities have writing centers, which may also be able to assist you.
