Identifying the Correct Spelling: Momentary

The question asks us to identify the correctly spelt word from the four given options. This is a common type of question in English language sections of exams, testing vocabulary and spelling knowledge.

Let's examine each option carefully:

• Option 1: momentery
• Option 2: momentary
• Option 3: mommentary
• Option 4: momentory

We are looking for the correct spelling of the word that means 'lasting for a very short time'. This word is related to 'moment', which means a very brief period of time.

Analyzing the Spellings

Let's break down the structure of the word and compare the options:

• The root word is related to "moment".
• The common suffix for adjectives meaning 'relating to' or 'characterized by' a noun is often '-ary' or '-ory'.

Considering the word 'moment', the correct adjective form is created by adding the suffix '-ary'. The correct spelling is 'momentary'.

Let's see why the other options are incorrect:

• momentery: The ending '-ery' is not the correct suffix for forming the adjective from 'moment'.
• mommentary: This spelling has an extra 'm' after the first 'm' ('momment'). The root word 'moment' only has one 'm' after the 'o'.
• momentory: While '-ory' is a valid adjective suffix (e.g., 'compulsory', 'advisory'), it is not the correct suffix used to form the adjective from 'moment'. The correct suffix here is '-ary'.

Based on standard English spelling rules and common usage, the correct spelling is 'momentary'.

Conclusion on Correct Spelling

Comparing all the options against the known correct spelling, 'momentary' is the only word spelt accurately.

Revision Table: Common Spelling Errors

Additional Information: Spelling Suffixes

Understanding common suffixes can help in identifying correct spellings and forming new words. The suffixes '-ary' and '-ory' are both used to form adjectives from nouns or verbs, often meaning 'relating to' or 'characterized by'. However, the choice between them depends on the specific root word and historical usage. There isn't a simple rule that applies to all cases, which is why familiarizing oneself with specific words is important.

Examples of words with these suffixes:

• -ary: primary, secondary, arbitrary, dictionary, library, visionary, honorary
• -ory: factory, laboratory, directory, satisfactory, mandatory, preparatory

In the case of 'moment', the accepted adjective form is 'momentary'.