Accommodate or Acommodate? Which Spelling Is Correct?

In English, certain words seem to be a magnet for spelling errors, and “accommodate” is one of them.

The confusion often arises between “accommodate” and “acommodate.” This article aims to clear up this confusion, offering insight into the correct spelling, usage, and tips to remember it.

Understanding these nuances is not just about getting the spelling right; it’s also about deepening your connection with the English language.

Correct Spelling and Definition

The correct spelling is “accommodate.” This word means to make room for or to adapt to something.

It’s often used in contexts where adjustment or provision for something or someone is needed.

For example,

“The hotel can accommodate up to 500 guests.” In this sentence, “accommodate” indicates the hotel’s capacity to host guests.

Another usage of “accommodate” can be found in more abstract contexts, like accommodating someone’s needs or preferences, as in, “We will try our best to accommodate your dietary requirements.”

Common Spelling Error: Acommodate

A frequent error is spelling the word with a single ‘m’ as “acommodate.”

This mistake can be attributed to the pronunciation of the word, where the double ‘m’ might not be distinctly emphasized, leading to a misinterpretation of its spelling.

However, in written English, both the double ‘c’ and the double ‘m’ are crucial in “accommodate.”

Etymology and Historical Development

The word “accommodate” has an interesting linguistic journey. It stems from the Latin word “accommodatus,” which combines “ad-” (meaning “to” or “toward”) and “commodus” (meaning “fitting” or “suitable”).

Over the centuries, this word has traversed through various languages, including Old French, before firmly planting its roots in English.

Understanding this historical trajectory helps to appreciate why it’s spelled with double ‘c’s and ‘m’s – they are remnants of its rich linguistic heritage.

Usage in Different Contexts

“Accommodate” is a versatile word used in a variety of contexts.

• In a physical sense, it might refer to space, as in “The parking lot can accommodate 100 vehicles.”
• In a more figurative sense, it can relate to meeting needs or requirements: “The new software accommodates the latest design trends.”

Notice how in each case, the word conveys an element of adaptation or provision.

Comparison with Other Common Spelling Confusions

The confusion around “accommodate” is not an isolated case in the English language.

For instance, “definitely” is often misspelled as “definately,” and “separate” as “seperate.” Below is a comparison table for a clearer view:

Correct Spelling	Common Incorrect Spelling
Accommodate	Acommodate
Definitely	Definately
Separate	Seperate

This comparison not only helps in understanding the correct spellings but also serves as a reminder of the importance of double letters in English spelling.

Tips for Remembering the Correct Spelling

One effective way to remember the correct spelling of “accommodate” is to think of the phrase “a company needs more rooms.”

This mnemonic links the double ‘c’ and ‘m’ in “accommodate” to the idea of a company needing more (double) rooms to accommodate people.

Additionally, remembering that “accommodate” has as many ‘c’s and ‘m’s as it can fit (two of each) can also be a fun and easy way to recall the correct spelling.

Regular practice, such as writing the word multiple times or using it in different sentences, can also reinforce the correct spelling.

Conclusion

“Accommodate,” with its double ‘c’ and ‘m’, is the correct spelling. Mastering such spellings is more than an academic exercise; it’s about enhancing your communication skills in English.

By understanding the correct usage and remembering how to spell these commonly confused words, you can communicate more effectively and confidently.

FAQs or Reader Questions

Q1: Are there any other words with similar double letter confusions like “accommodate”?

A1: Absolutely! Words like “occasionally” (often misspelled as “ocassionally”) and “unnecessary” (commonly misspelled as “unecessary”) are other examples where double letters often lead to spelling errors.

Q2: Why are some English words spelled with double letters?

A2: Double letters in English words often come from their origins in other languages. They can also indicate a change in pronunciation, such as a shorter vowel sound preceding the double letter.

Q3: How can spell-check tools affect my spelling skills?

A3: While spell-check tools are helpful, over-reliance on them can hinder your ability to remember correct spellings. It’s beneficial to use these tools as a backup rather than a primary spelling guide.

Q4: Can learning the origins of words help with spelling?

A4: Yes, understanding the etymology of words can provide insights into their spelling. It helps in making connections between spelling and meaning, which can aid memory.

Q5: What strategies can teachers use to help students with spelling?

A5: Teachers can use various strategies such as spelling games, mnemonic devices, breaking words into syllables, and encouraging reading, which exposes students to words in context, enhancing their spelling skills.

Further Resources

• https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/feature/Accomodate-or-accommodate#:~
• https://www.vedantu.com/question-answer/choose-the-correctly-spelled-word-a-accomodate-b-class-10-english-cbse-5f8a4e71f7c63340f61a3018
• https://www.vedantu.com/question-answer/choose-the-correctly-spelled-word-a-accomodate-b-class-10-english-c