Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Nuisence
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The test probes look-alike letter sequences nu-/nu-i-/nu-e- and the common trap in the word “nuisance”. The goal is to single out the misspelling among four scientific/academic terms beginning with “nu-”.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Use morpheme recognition. “Nuisance” derives from Old French “nuisance” (harm). Its medial vowel sequence is “-sa-”, not “-se-”. Many speakers mishear the schwa and write nuisence; this is a classic spelling error.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Mnemonic: nui + s + ance (think “a nuisance has an a”). Dictionaries uniformly mark “nuisance” as correct; “nuisence” is nonstandard.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Interchanging “-ance” and “-ence”. As a rough guide, many verbs ending in -y/-ure/-ear lead to -ance nouns, but rules are irregular; memorize frequent offenders like maintenance, nuisance, acquaintance.
Final Answer:
Nuisence
Discussion & Comments