The word "cancelled" is one of those words that often trips people up. It's easy to get confused about the double "L" and the final "ED." This short guide will clear up any confusion and ensure you spell "cancelled" correctly every time.
Understanding the Spelling of Cancelled
The word "cancelled" is the past participle of the verb "to cancel." This means it shows that the action of canceling has already happened. The tricky part lies in the correct spelling of the past participle form.
The Double "L"
The double "L" is crucial. Don't forget it! The double "L" is a key part of the original word, "cancel," and carries over into its past participle form. Many words ending in "-cel" maintain this double "L" when adding suffixes.
The "ED" Ending
The "-ed" ending indicates past tense. While seemingly simple, it’s important to remember that this ending is added after the double "L."
Common Misspellings of Cancelled
Many people mistakenly write "canceled." While this spelling is also accepted in American English, "cancelled" is the preferred spelling in British English and is widely accepted in many other contexts. Knowing the different spellings will help you choose the appropriate one for your specific situation.
Here are some other less common, but still possible, misspellings:
- canseled: Missing a crucial "l"
- canceld: Missing the second "l" and the "e" in "-ed."
- canclled: Missing the "e" in "-ed."
Tips for Remembering the Correct Spelling
- Use a mnemonic device: Create a memorable phrase or sentence incorporating the double "L" and the "ED" to make the spelling stick. For example, "Lots of Laughs, cancelled plans."
- Break it down: Consciously break the word down into its constituent parts ("cancel" + "led") when writing.
- Use a spell checker: Relying on spell-checking tools is a great way to avoid errors. However, always double-check the suggestions offered.
- Practice: The more you write the word, the better you'll remember the correct spelling.
Conclusion: Mastering the Spelling of Cancelled
Mastering the spelling of "cancelled" is simple once you understand the rules and practice. By remembering the double "L" and the "-ed" ending, and utilizing a few memory tricks, you can confidently incorporate this sometimes-tricky word into your writing. Now go forth and write correctly!
