Introduction / Context:
This question tests spelling, which is an important part of English usage in competitive exams. The word given refers to a common medical condition involving frequent loose motions. Examinations in India usually follow British spelling conventions, especially in formal tests, so the candidate must know the correct British spelling of this medical term.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target word: a noun describing an intestinal disorder with watery stools.
- Options: “Diarrhoea”, “Diarhea”, “Diarrhea”, “Diarrohea”.
- We assume British English is the standard for the exam.
Concept / Approach:
In British English, the correct spelling is “diarrhoea”. In American English, the spelling is “diarrhea” without the “o”. Exams based on British usage accept “diarrhoea” as correct. The other options are incorrect either because of missing letters or wrong sequence. Therefore, the candidate must recognise and select the standard British form.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the British English spelling: d-i-a-r-r-h-o-e-a.
Step 2: Compare each option with this pattern. Option A: “Diarrhoea” exactly matches d-i-a-r-r-h-o-e-a.
Step 3: Option B: “Diarhea” omits one “r” and the “o”, so it does not match either the British or American standard.
Step 4: Option C: “Diarrhea” is the American spelling, which drops the “o” but keeps the double “r”. While correct in American English, it is not the conventional British form used in most Indian exam papers.
Step 5: Option D: “Diarrohea” misplaces the “rr” and “rroh” sequence, making it incorrect.
Verification / Alternative check:
Check medical and British English dictionaries: they list “diarrhoea” as the primary British spelling.
Remember the pattern “-rhoea” that also appears in other medical terms, which helps reinforce the correct spelling.
Given that SSC and similar exams prefer British English, “Diarrhoea” is the intended correct answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B (Diarhea): Misses both an “r” and the “o”, making it a misspelling in all standard varieties of English.
Option C (Diarrhea): Acceptable in American English, but most Indian exam boards treat “diarrhoea” as the correct form, especially when only one “correct spelling” is required.
Option D (Diarrohea): Contains misplaced letters and does not match any recognised standard spelling.
Common Pitfalls:
Learners often confuse British and American spellings and may choose “Diarrhea” without considering exam convention.
The cluster of letters “rrhoea” is tricky, leading to dropped letters or incorrect ordering.
Relying only on what “looks right” instead of recalling rules or dictionary forms can easily lead to errors in spelling questions.
Final Answer:
The correctly spelt word in British English, and the expected exam answer, is “Diarrhoea”.
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