Four spellings of the word meaning "in correct proportion" are given. Choose the correctly spelt word "commensurate" from the options.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Commensurate

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Spelling questions test familiarity with standard English forms, especially for words used in formal writing. The word in focus here is commensurate, which means in correct proportion or corresponding in size or degree. Only one of the given spellings matches the standard dictionary form.


Given Data / Assumptions:

    The intended word is commensurate, used in phrases such as salary commensurate with experience.

    Five spellings are offered, each slightly different.

    We must recognise the standard spelling used in formal English.

    The correct spelling has one m after the first o and one s after the second m.

    The ending is surate, not sarate or surate with extra letters.


Concept / Approach:
The word commensurate is derived from Latin roots meaning equal measure. In English, it is spelt c o m m e n s u r a t e. The pattern is com plus mens plus urate, with double m and a single s. When solving spelling questions, it helps to recall common usage and to break the word into smaller meaningful parts so that added or missing letters can be detected easily.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Examine option A, Commensurate. It follows the pattern com mens urate with double m and a single s, and matches dictionary usage. Step 2: Examine option B, Commensarate. The sequence sarate is incorrect; the correct part is surate with a u before rate. Step 3: Examine option C, Commansurate. This form shifts the second m to n, producing mans instead of mens, and therefore breaks the root. Step 4: Examine option D, Comansurate. This spelling drops one m and changes mens to mans; it is clearly non standard. Step 5: Examine option E, Commenssurate. It uses a double s, which is not found in the correct spelling.


Verification / Alternative check:
Recall common phrases such as pay will be commensurate with skills and experience, where commensurate is spelt as in option A. Check a dictionary mentally: the stress falls on men, and the letters m e n s appear together, which option A preserves. If you have seen the word in print, the pattern double m single s stands out, supporting option A.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B alters the vowel pattern in the final syllables and creates a non existent form commensarate. Option C confuses m and n, changing the central root from mens to mans, and so is incorrect. Option D removes one m and changes the shape of the word, which is not acceptable. Option E adds an extra s, which does not appear in the standard spelling.


Common Pitfalls:
Learners often struggle with words that contain double consonants and the sequence surate or serate. A helpful strategy is to memorise example phrases with correct spelling and to notice the root mens that appears inside commensurate. Breaking words into meaningful parts reduces confusion caused by inserted or omitted letters.


Final Answer:
The correctly spelt word is Commensurate.

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