In the following question, choose the correctly spelt English word: which option shows the correct spelling of "gregarious", describing a sociable person who enjoys the company of others?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Gregarious

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Spelling questions like this one test both your vocabulary and your visual memory of common exam words. "Gregarious" is a favourite in competitive exams because it is a useful descriptive adjective and also slightly tricky to spell. It is often used to describe an outgoing, sociable person who likes being in groups rather than being alone.


Given Data / Assumptions:
- You must identify the correct spelling of the word "gregarious".
- All the options look similar but have small differences in vowels and consonants.
- Only one option matches the standard dictionary spelling.


Concept / Approach:
The correct spelling is "gregarious". The word comes from the Latin "gregarius", related to a flock or group, which explains why it refers to sociability and liking company. The central pattern to remember is "gre-gar-ious" with the sequence g-r-e-g-a-r-i-o-u-s. Exam-setters usually change one or two vowels in the middle or add/remove letters to mislead you.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Break the word into syllables mentally: "gre" + "gar" + "ious".
Step 2: Look at option c, "Gregarious". It matches the expected sequence of letters and looks familiar from reading material.
Step 3: Compare the distractors: "Gragarious" (option a) repeats the "gra" pattern wrongly, "Gragerious" (option b) muddles the vowels in the middle, and "Grigareous" (option d) inserts an extra i at an odd place.
Step 4: Notice that "Gregarous" (option e) drops the "i" from "-ious", producing a non-standard ending.


Verification / Alternative check:
In good English usage, you will see sentences such as "He is a gregarious host who enjoys large gatherings" or "Gregarious animals tend to move in herds". In each case, standard dictionaries and style guides use "gregarious" with the "ious" ending, not "arous" or any other variant. You can check mental examples from your reading or trusted vocabulary books to reinforce this spelling.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- "Gragarious": incorrect sequence of vowels, making the first part "gra" instead of "gre".
- "Gragerious": misplaces vowels and does not match standard spelling patterns.
- "Grigareous": adds an unnecessary "i" and distorts the middle of the word.
- "Gregarous": drops the "i" in the "-ious" ending, which is incorrect for this adjective.


Common Pitfalls:
Many learners confuse the endings "-ous", "-ious", and "-eous" in English adjectives. A helpful technique is to learn such words in small groups, for example: "gregarious", "curious", "various" all share the "-ious" ending. Writing them out a few times when revising vocabulary can strengthen your visual memory and reduce spelling mistakes in the exam.


Final Answer:
The correctly spelt word is "Gregarious".

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