Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Saggest
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Many English words use “gg” or “g” depending on the vowel and stress patterns. “Suggest” belongs to a family where the prefix “sug-” (from sub-) assimilates before “g”, yielding the double “gg”, but the internal vowel remains “u”, not “a”.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
“Suggest” = “sub-” (under) + “gerere/gest-” (carry). The “b” in “sub-” assimilates to “g” → “sug-”, hence “suggest”. The vowel immediately after “sug-” remains “g” followed by “gest”, not “agg-”. So “Saggest” misuses both the initial consonant and the vowel.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Check morphology: su(b) + gest → suggest.2) Verify vowel: the first vowel is “u” (not “a”) after the prefix assimilation.3) Confirm other options: period, famous, reference are standard dictionary forms.4) Conclude B is the sole misspelling.
Verification / Alternative check:
Compare derivatives: suggestion, suggestive; both show “sug-” + “gest-”, never “sag-”.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Letting speech rhythm suggest “sag-”; writing “referance” for “reference”. Remember “-ence” vs “-ance” families must be learned by pattern.
Final Answer:
Saggest
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