The world of grammar and spelling can be a complex and often confusing place, especially when it comes to words that sound similar but have different meanings. One such debate that has been ongoing for quite some time is whether to use the word “edited” or “editted.” While some people may think it’s just a minor typo, the difference between these two words can greatly impact the meaning and clarity of your writing.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the debate, let’s first understand the basics of the words in question. “Edited” is a verb that means to review, revise, and correct written or visual material for publication or presentation. It can also refer to the process of selecting and preparing material for publication. On the other hand, “editted” is not a word in the English language, or at least, it’s not a word that is widely recognized or accepted.
The Origins of the Debate
So, where did this debate come from? The answer lies in the way we pronounce the word “edited.” When we say “edited,” it sounds like “editted,” which can lead to confusion when writing. This is especially true for those who are not native English speakers or those who are not familiar with the nuances of the English language.
The Case for “Edited”
Despite the pronunciation, the overwhelming majority of style guides, dictionaries, and language experts agree that the correct spelling is “edited.” Here are a few reasons why:
- Etymology: The word “edited” comes from the Latin word “editus,” which means “to give out” or “to publish.” The suffix “-ed” is a common way to form the past tense of verbs in English, and it’s used in many other words such as “created,” “written,” and “directed.”
- Style Guides: All major style guides, including the Chicago Manual of Style, the AP Stylebook, and the MLA Handbook, recommend using “edited” instead of “editted.”
- Dictionary Definitions: Dictionaries such as Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and Cambridge all define “edited” as the correct spelling and do not recognize “editted” as a valid word.
Examples of Correct Usage
Here are a few examples of how to use “edited” correctly:
- The editor carefully edited the manuscript before it was published.
- The video was edited to remove any explicit content.
- The professor edited the student’s paper to help them improve their writing.
The Case for “Editted”
While the majority of language experts agree that “edited” is the correct spelling, there are some arguments in favor of using “editted.” Here are a few:
- Pronunciation: As mentioned earlier, the pronunciation of “edited” sounds like “editted,” which can lead to confusion when writing.
- Consistency: Some argue that using “editted” would be more consistent with other words that end in “-itted,” such as “kitted” or “skitted.”
However, these arguments are not strong enough to outweigh the evidence in favor of using “edited.” In fact, using “editted” can lead to confusion and make your writing appear less professional.
The Risks of Using “Editted”
Using “editted” instead of “edited” can have serious consequences, especially in formal writing or professional settings. Here are a few risks to consider:
- Loss of Credibility: Using “editted” can make you appear less knowledgeable or less professional, which can damage your credibility and reputation.
- Confusion and Misunderstanding: Using “editted” can lead to confusion and misunderstanding, especially if your readers are not familiar with the word.
- Rejection or Failure: In some cases, using “editted” can even lead to rejection or failure, especially if you’re submitting a manuscript or proposal to a publisher or academic institution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the debate between “edited” and “editted” may seem minor, it’s an important one to consider, especially in formal writing or professional settings. The overwhelming majority of language experts agree that “edited” is the correct spelling, and using “editted” can lead to confusion, loss of credibility, and even rejection or failure.
By understanding the basics of the words in question and the arguments for and against each spelling, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and professional.
Final Tips
Here are a few final tips to keep in mind:
- Always use “edited” instead of “editted” in formal writing or professional settings.
- Be consistent in your usage and avoid switching between “edited” and “editted” in the same document or manuscript.
- If you’re unsure about the correct spelling, consult a style guide or dictionary for guidance.
By following these tips and using “edited” correctly, you can ensure that your writing is professional, clear, and effective.
What is the difference between edited and editted?
The difference between edited and editted lies in their usage and acceptance in the English language. Edited is the preferred and widely accepted term, while editted is often considered a misspelling or an alternative spelling. Edited is used as the past tense and past participle of the verb “edit,” which means to revise or correct written material.
In general, edited is used in American and British English, while editted is sometimes used in British English, although it is not as common. Many style guides, including the Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook, recommend using edited instead of editted. However, it’s worth noting that some dictionaries, such as Merriam-Webster, list editted as a variant of edited.
Is editted a word?
Editted is not a word in the classical sense, but it is sometimes used as an alternative spelling of edited. While it is not widely accepted, editted can be found in some dictionaries and style guides. However, its usage is generally discouraged in formal writing and editing.
In informal writing, such as social media or text messages, editted might be used, but it’s still not the preferred term. In formal writing, such as academic papers, books, or news articles, edited is the standard term. If you’re unsure which term to use, it’s always best to stick with edited to avoid any potential errors or inconsistencies.
What is the origin of the word editted?
The word editted is believed to have originated from the verb “edit,” which comes from the Latin word “editus,” meaning “to give out” or “to publish.” The verb “edit” has been used in English since the 15th century, and its past tense and past participle forms have evolved over time.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the past tense and past participle of “edit” were sometimes spelled “editted,” but this spelling was not widely accepted. In modern English, edited is the standard term, and editted is generally considered a variant or a misspelling.
Is it edited or editted in British English?
In British English, edited is the preferred term, and editted is not as commonly used. While some British style guides, such as the Oxford Style Guide, list editted as a variant of edited, it’s not the standard term.
In general, British English follows the same rules as American English when it comes to the usage of edited and editted. Edited is the widely accepted term, and editted is generally discouraged in formal writing. However, it’s worth noting that some British publications or authors might use editted, but this is not the norm.
How do I know which term to use?
To determine which term to use, consider the context and the style guide you’re following. If you’re writing for a specific publication or organization, check their style guide to see which term is preferred. In general, edited is the safer choice, as it’s widely accepted and used in both American and British English.
If you’re unsure which term to use, you can also consider the tone and formality of your writing. In formal writing, such as academic papers or news articles, edited is the standard term. In informal writing, such as social media or text messages, editted might be used, but it’s still not the preferred term.
Can I use editted in formal writing?
It’s generally not recommended to use editted in formal writing, such as academic papers, books, or news articles. Edited is the standard term in formal writing, and using editted might be considered an error or inconsistency.
If you’re writing for a specific publication or organization, check their style guide to see which term is preferred. In general, it’s best to stick with edited to avoid any potential errors or inconsistencies. However, if you’re writing for a publication or organization that specifically uses editted, it’s best to follow their style guide.
Will using editted affect my writing’s credibility?
Using editted instead of edited might affect your writing’s credibility, especially in formal writing. Edited is the standard term, and using editted might be considered an error or inconsistency. In academic or professional writing, using the correct terminology is important to maintain credibility and authority.
However, in informal writing, such as social media or text messages, using editted might not have a significant impact on credibility. But it’s still important to use the correct terminology to avoid any potential errors or inconsistencies.