Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Intrinsic
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The word "intrinsic" is frequently used in academic writing and competitive exams to describe something that is essential, inherent, or belonging naturally to something. Spelling questions around this word check if you can distinguish the correct pattern from several lookalike wrong forms, especially because of the similar sounding "s" and "c" and the position of vowels.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- You are asked to choose the correct spelling for "intrinsic".
- All options are similar but differ in the arrangement of consonants and vowels.
- Only one matches the standard spelling in dictionaries and formal usage.
Concept / Approach:
The correct spelling is "intrinsic". It follows the pattern in-trin-sic and ends with "sic", not "sek" or "sik". The prefix "in-" often means "within", and "intrinsic" suggests qualities that come from within the thing itself. Wrong spellings usually move the r or change c to s (or k), producing non-standard variants.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Pronounce the word slowly: "in-trin-sic".
Step 2: Match this pronunciation with each option. Option b, "Intrinsic", correctly represents each sound and is a familiar form.
Step 3: Notice that "Intrensic" (option a) replaces "intri" with "intre", which is not standard.
Step 4: "Entrensic" (option c) and "Entrinsec" (option d) both begin with "En-" instead of "In-", and "Intrinsik" (option e) uses the non-standard "k" ending.
Verification / Alternative check:
Think of sample sentences: "Honesty is an intrinsic value" or "The intrinsic properties of the metal do not change". In textbooks, research articles, and dictionaries, the word consistently appears as "intrinsic". None of the other spellings are used in serious writing. A quick mental check through vocabulary lists for exams will confirm this standard form.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- "Intrensic": misplaces the vowel and suggests a different pronunciation.
- "Entrensic": starts with "En" and again alters both spelling and sound.
- "Entrinsec": combines multiple deviations, including starting with "En" and ending with "sec".
- "Intrinsik": uses "k" at the end, which is not used in standard English spelling of "intrinsic".
Common Pitfalls:
Students often confuse "intrinsic" with "extrinsic" (meaning coming from outside). Learning them together as a pair helps: "intrinsic" (internal) and "extrinsic" (external). Paying attention to the consistent "-sic" ending in both words can strengthen your spelling accuracy and reduce confusion in exam conditions.
Final Answer:
The correctly spelt word is "Intrinsic".
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