Forty or Fourty: Which Is Correct?

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Written By Daisy Zara

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Spelling can often trip us up, even in seemingly simple words. One such word is the number “40”, which raises a common question: is it spelled “forty” or “fourty”? This article will explore this spelling mystery, its origins, and how to avoid making errors with this tricky word. We’ll also provide examples, helpful tips, and frequently asked questions to clarify the confusion.

The Correct Spelling: Forty or Fourty?

The correct spelling of the number 40 is “forty.” While it might seem logical to spell it as “forty” due to its connection to the word “four,” the English language does not follow this rule. The “u” found in “four” is dropped when forming the word “forty.”

This misspelling happens frequently because many assume that the “u” from “four” should carry over. However, dictionaries like Merriam-Webster and the Oxford English Dictionary confirm that “forty” is incorrect. Stick to “forty” to ensure proper spelling in formal writing or everyday use.

Why Is Fourty a Common Misspelling?

The misspelling “forty” is widespread because of the way “four” is spelled. The word “four” naturally leads people to assume that its derivatives, like “forty,” should also contain the letter “u.” This is especially common among non-native English speakers and learners.

Another reason lies in phonetics. The pronunciation of “forty” doesn’t emphasize the absence of the “u.” Both “forty” and the incorrect “forty” sound the same, which makes the misspelling go unnoticed in speech. This highlights the complexities of English spelling, where logic and pronunciation don’t always align.

The Origins of the Word “Forty”

How Spelling Variants Have Evolved Over Time

The word “forty” has its roots in Old English and Middle English. Early spellings of the word included variations like “flowering” and later “forty.” Over time, the English language underwent standardization, and the modern spelling “forty” became the accepted form.

Standardization was influenced by dictionaries and usage in literature. The dropped “u” aligns with other changes that simplified spelling patterns in English. By the 16th century, “forty” was widely accepted.

Historical Usage of “Forty” or “Fourty”

Historical texts reveal that “forty” appeared sporadically but never gained official recognition. For example, medieval manuscripts sometimes used “forty,” but such instances were inconsistent. By the time dictionaries were formalized in the 18th century, “forty” became the definitive spelling.

VariantUsage PeriodAccepted?
FortyModernYes
FortyPre-standardizationNo

Why “Forty” Is the Standard English Spelling

Linguistic Roots and Influences

The shift from “forty” to “forty” reflects the simplification of English spelling. Many words were streamlined during the evolution of English, influenced by Latin and Germanic roots. This change made it easier to standardize spelling across regions.

The omission of the “u” also aligns with broader trends in English orthography. For instance, words like “color” in British English are simplified to “color” in American English. Similarly, “forty” lacks the “u” to simplify its structure.

How Forty Lost Its ‘U’

The removal of the “u” may have been driven by pronunciation and practicality. Writers and printers sought to eliminate unnecessary letters to reduce complexity. Over time, this streamlined form became dominant, and “forty” faded into obscurity.

Examples of “Forty” Used in Sentences

Common Contexts for the Word “Forty”

The word “forty” appears in many contexts, from age milestones to monetary amounts. For example:

  • She celebrated her forty-second birthday with her family.
  • The house was built forty years ago.
  • They ran a marathon in under forty minutes.

These examples show how versatile the word “forty” is, appearing in both casual and formal writing.

How to Avoid the Fourty Misspelling

To avoid spelling errors, remember that “forty” is always incorrect. Double-check your writing, especially in formal contexts. Using tools like spell checkers can also help catch mistakes.

Tips to Remember the Correct Spelling

Mnemonics and Memory Aids

One way to remember the correct spelling is by associating “forty” with “fort” (like a castle). Imagine the number 40 as a fortress that stands strong without the “u.” This mental image can help reinforce the correct spelling.

Tools to Check Your Spelling

Using digital tools like Grammarly or browser-based spell checkers can save time. These tools highlight incorrect spellings like “forty” and suggest the correct version. Practice writing “forty” often to develop muscle memory for the correct spelling.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why Do Some People Spell It “Fourty”?

Many people spell “forty” as “forty” because they follow the pattern of “four.” This is a logical assumption, but it doesn’t match English spelling rules. Historical usage and standardization explain why “forty” is correct.

Is “Fourty” Ever Correct in Any Context?

No, “forty” is never correct in standard English. It may appear in informal contexts or as a typo, but it’s not recognized by dictionaries or style guides.

Conclusion: Stick to “Forty”

Spelling can be tricky, but understanding the history and rules behind words like “forty” makes it easier. Always remember that “forty” is incorrect, no matter how logical it may seem. Use resources, practice writing, and embrace the quirks of the English language. By doing so, you’ll never confuse “forty” and “forty” again.

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