Question

Which one of the following is an incorrectly spelled word?

• A. caucus
• B. accredited
• C. circumvant
• D. unabated

Hint:

The word circumvent is derived from the Latin circumvenire, where circum means "around" and venire means "to come". The 've' component is preserved across related words like convene, prevent, and invent. Incorrect: circumvant $\rightarrow$ Correct: circumvent

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Prefixes and suffixes have strict spelling rules in standard English. The prefix circum- means "around", and when combined with roots, the vowels connecting the syllables must follow correct etymological patterns.

Step 1: Analyze options A, B, and D. * caucus (noun/verb): Spelled correctly. A meeting of supporters or members of a specific political party or movement. * accredited (adjective): Spelled correctly. Officially recognized or authorized as meeting essential standards. Note the correct double 'c' and single 'r'. * unabated (adjective): Spelled correctly. Without any reduction in intensity, force, or strength.

Step 2: Identify and correct the mistake in option C. * The word "circumvant" is spelled incorrectly because of the vowel 'a' in the final syllable. * The correct spelling is circumvent, utilizing an 'e'. * Meaning: To find a way around an obstacle or to overcome a problem, typically in a clever or surreptitious way.