English Spelling — Identify the misspelled word (choose the incorrect spelling; select 'All correct' if none). Words: A) Differed B) Suffered C) Offered D) Reffered E) All correct

Verbal Ability Spellings Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Differed
  • B
    Suffered
  • C
    Offered
  • D
    Reffered
  • E
    All correct

Answer

Correct Answer: Reffered

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Double-consonant rules are a classic trap. English often doubles consonants before certain suffixes, but the pattern depends on the base word and stress. Here, three past tense forms are correct, while one adds an extra consonant improperly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Differed — past of differ (correct: f is doubled in the base “differ,” not by the suffix).
  • Suffered — past of suffer (correct).
  • Offered — past of offer (correct).
  • Reffered — intended as “referred” (past of refer).

Concept / Approach:The verb “refer” doubles the final consonant when adding “-ed” due to stress on the final syllable: refer → referred. The correct sequence is r-e-f-e-r-r-e-d. Option D uses “ff” (“reffered”), which is wrong; we double “r,” not “f.”

Step-by-Step Solution:

Check base forms: differ/suffer/offer/refer.Apply past tense: differed/suffered/offered/referred.Spot anomaly: “Reffered” has “ff” instead of “rr.”Choose D as the misspelling.

Verification / Alternative check:Consult a dictionary entry for “refer”: past “referred,” participle “referred,” noun “referral” retains double r.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A–C match standard morphology.

Common Pitfalls:Over-generalizing from “differed/suffered/offered” that “ff” should repeat in all forms; doubling depends on the actual base spelling and stress, not a blanket rule.

Final Answer:Reffered

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