Identifying the Correctly Spelt Word: "Swivelling"

This question asks us to identify the correctly spelt word among the given options. Correct spelling is essential for clear communication in written English. Let's examine each option to determine the correct spelling.

Analyzing the Spelling Options

We are given four different spellings. Let's look at them closely:

• Option 1: svivelling
• Option 2: swivaling
• Option 3: swivelling
• Option 4: sviveling

The word we are looking for is a form of the verb 'swivel', which means to turn or rotate around a central point. The options include variations attempting to form the present participle by adding '-ing'.

Identifying the Correct Spelling

Let's evaluate each option based on standard English spelling rules:

• svivelling: This spelling is incorrect. The word 'swivel' begins with 'sw', not 'sv'.
• swivaling: This spelling is incorrect. The word is 'swivel', not 'swival'. Also, when adding '-ing' to 'swivel', the 'i' before 'l' is typically retained.
• swivelling: This spelling is correct. The base word is 'swivel'. When adding the suffix '-ing', the final 'l' is often doubled in British English, especially when the stress is on the last syllable (though 'swivel' is an exception regarding stress, doubling the 'l' is common practice in UK English). This forms 'swivelling'.
• sviveling: This spelling is incorrect for two reasons: it starts with 'sv' instead of 'sw', and while 'swiveling' (with a single 'l') is the common American English spelling, this option incorrectly starts with 'sv'.

Comparing the options, "swivelling" is the standard and correctly spelt form in British English, which is often tested in general English proficiency contexts.

Therefore, the correctly spelt word is "swivelling".

Understanding the Spelling Rule for Swivelling

The spelling of words like "swivelling" relates to the rule of doubling the final consonant when adding suffixes like '-ing', '-ed', '-er', etc. This typically happens when a verb ends in a single consonant preceded by a single vowel, and the final syllable is stressed. While "swivel" does not have stress on the final syllable, it ends in '-el', and verbs ending in '-el' commonly double the 'l' before adding a suffix starting with a vowel in British English (e.g., travel → travelling, cancel → cancelling). American English usually does not double the 'l' (e.g., traveling, canceling, swiveling).

The option provided follows the British English spelling convention.

Based on this analysis, option 3, "swivelling", is the correct spelling.

Revision Table: Spelling Practice

Additional Information: Common Spelling Errors and Tips

Spelling can be tricky in English due to its varied origins. Here are some tips to improve your spelling:

• Learn Common Rules: Understand basic rules like adding suffixes, plurals, and when to use 'ie' vs 'ei'.
• Practice Regularly: Write often and review your work for errors.
• Use a Dictionary: When in doubt, always look up the correct spelling.
• Proofread Carefully: Read through your writing slowly, perhaps even backwards, to catch mistakes.
• Learn Word Origins: Sometimes knowing where a word comes from can help with spelling.
• Create Mnemonics: Use memory aids for tricky words (e.g., 'a lot' is two words, think 'a lot of space').

Focusing on commonly confused words and practicing the rules can significantly improve your spelling accuracy.