Ever misspelled ‘privilege’ with an extra ‘d’? You are not alone! This guide clarifies the correct spelling and usage.
Understanding Priviledge and Privilege
Privilege: Definition and Usage
Privilege (noun) A special right, advantage, or immunity enjoyed by a particular person or group.
The word “Privilege” stems from the Latin word “privilegium”, meaning “a private law.” It signifies a right or benefit that’s not available to everyone.
For instance:
- Having access to quality healthcare is a privilege.
- It’s a privilege to be invited to a private event.
Priviledge: Definition and Usage
Priviledge: (misspelling) This is not a real word!
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Priviledge | Privilege |
| Definition | Not applicable (misspelling) | Special rights or advantages |
| Common Usage | Incorrect usage; should be replaced with “privilege” | “Some don’t see their privilege, so they don’t understand their advantages.” |
| Key Differences | Common misspelling with no meaning | A correct spelling and refers to unearned advantages or benefits, especially in social contexts. |
Why the Misspelling Occurs?
The misspelling “priviledge” can occur due to a few reasons:
- Similarities to other words. The suffix “-ledge” appears in many English words like “knowledge,” “acknowledgment,” or “ledge” (a shelf or projection). This familiarity might lead someone to incorrectly add it to “privilege.”
- Double consonants. Having two consecutive consonants (“vg”) in “privilege” might seem unusual to some. They might add an extra “d” for a more familiar consonant combination (“vd”). This is similar to how some people might misspell “goverment” as “governement.”
- Less common word. “Privilege” is not as frequently used in everyday conversation compared to words like “happy” or “run.” Less exposure to the correct spelling can increase the chances of misspelling, especially when encountering it less frequently.
Choosing the Right Word
Since “priviledge” isn’t a recognized word, the clear choice is always “privilege.” Remember, using the correct spelling demonstrates strong communication skills and attention to detail.
Everyday Usage Examples
“A good education is a privilege that shouldn’t be taken for granted.”
“Living in a safe neighborhood is a privilege many don’t have.”
“It’s a privilege to be able to travel the world.”
FAQ: Privilege vs. Priviledge
The correct spelling is privilege. “Priviledge” is a common misspelling.
Privilege refers to a special right, benefit, or immunity that’s not available to everyone. It can be something you’re born with, like access to quality education, or something you earn, like an invitation to a private event.
No, “privilege” is a noun. It describes something you have or experience. You cannot “privilege” someone in the same way you would “invite” or “grant” them a privilege.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “privilege” and “priviledge” is a breeze now! By incorporating “privilege” into your vocabulary, you can effectively communicate the concept of special rights or advantages.
So, go forth and wield the power of proper spelling with confidence!