Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Adjournment
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of correct English spelling. You are given four similar looking words, all attempting to spell the word that means "a suspension or postponement of a meeting, court, or session". The correct spelling is important in formal writing, legal documents, and academic communication. You must identify which option is correctly spelt.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Spelling questions often test words that are used in official contexts but can be confusing due to silent letters or unusual letter combinations. "Adjournment" comes from the verb "adjourn", which includes the "dj" combination and the "ourn" sequence. The noun "adjournment" simply adds "ment". Understanding the root verb helps in remembering the correct spelling of the noun.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the common expression used in courts and meetings: "The meeting is adjourned" and "The adjournment will be until tomorrow".Step 2: Focus on the root "adjourn" spelled A D J O U R N, and then add "ment" to form the noun "adjournment".Step 3: Examine each option and compare it with this structure.Step 4: See that "Adjournment" in option D follows the pattern exactly: A D J O U R N M E N T.Step 5: Note that the other options either miss letters or rearrange them incorrectly.
Verification / Alternative check:
A simple way to confirm is to split the correct spelling into root plus suffix: "adjourn" plus "ment". If an option cannot be neatly divided this way, it is likely wrong. For example, "Ajournment" lacks the letter "d", so it cannot come from "adjourn". "Adjournmant" has an extra "a" before "nt", which is incorrect. Any form that distorts the root "adjourn" is not acceptable.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, "Ajournment", omits the "d" after "a", so it does not match the verb "adjourn". Option B, "Adjournmant", inserts an extra "a" before the ending, giving "mant" instead of "ment". Option C is another incorrect arrangement of letters and does not reflect the correct root spelling. Only option D accurately preserves "adjourn" and adds the proper suffix "ment".
Common Pitfalls:
Many learners misplace or drop the "d" in "adjourn" or misremember the exact order of vowels. Another common issue is confusion between similar sounding endings like "ment" and "mant". To overcome such pitfalls, it helps to remember example sentences from reliable sources, such as "The court ordered a short adjournment". Visual exposure to correct spelling in books and articles strengthens memory over time.
Final Answer:
The correct answer is Adjournment, which is the standard and correctly spelt noun formed from the verb "adjourn".
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