Incorrect spelling, explanation: scaned is a mistake because it violates a fundamental English spelling rule related to how past tense forms of regular verbs are created. When a single-syllable verb ends with this pattern, and you add a suffix starting with a vowel (like -ed), you double the final consonant to preserve the short vowel sound. If you spell it scaned, readers might mistakenly think the -a is pronounced like the long vowel in caned or pained, which changes the word’s sound completely.
Correct spelling, explanation: the verb scan comes from the Latin word scandere, meaning to climb or to ascend. Over time, this meaning evolved in medieval Latin to refer to the careful examination or marking of poetic meter (like climbing or measuring steps in a poem). The difference between scanned and scaned is purely due to English spelling rules, not etymology. English speakers doubled the -n in the past tense form (scanned) to maintain the short vowel sound in scan when adding -ed.
Definition of scanned:
Verb (past tense, past participle), cause (a surface, object, or part of the body) to be traversed by a detector or an electromagnetic beam
The technician scanned the patient’s chest with an ultrasound device to check for abnormalities.
At the airport, security personnel scanned the luggage using an X-ray machine.
Collocations with scanned:
Some of the most commonly used collocations include:
1. Scanned for threats: to use devices or observations to detect potential dangers.
The security system scanned for threats before allowing access to the building.
2. Scanned the barcode: to read product information using a barcode scanner.
The cashier scanned the barcode to register the item price.
3. Scanned the screen: to examine a digital display for specific information carefully.
She scanned the screen for any updates on the stock prices.
4. Scanned the field: to visually or electronically observe an area for specific information.
The coach scanned the field, looking for tactical opportunities during the game.
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