Correct spelling, explanation: categories is a word built by adding the plural -s suffix to a base word, category. The pronunciation may not be clear enough to guide you to the correct spelling of categories, but in this case, it is worth taking a look at the origins of the word. This word is based on the Greek katēgoria, which dictates the current spelling and placement of vowels.
Definition of categories:
noun (plural of category)
1. a division based on a common quality
There are different driver’s license categories you can obtain, depending on which kind of vehicle you want to drive.
She won the journalism contest, but there were also other categories, including story writing, reporting, and painting.
Incorrect spelling, explanation: judging solely from the pronunciation of the word, catagories may seem like a believable word, even though it’s incorrect. The correct spelling – categories – is built on the base word category with the plural suffix -s. Category is a word of Greek origin, and it stems from the word katēgoria, which is the main basis for its current spelling.
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Well that was odd. I just wrote an extremely long comment but after clicking submit it didn’t appear. Regardless, just wanted to say wonderful search engine.
Aw, this was a very great explanation. Finding the time and actual effort to create a really good search engine, but what else can I add… I’ll have a break now and complete my assignment later as I often put things off a lot and never seem to get anything done on time.