Question

Select the word that is correctly spelt-
a- Denigrate
b- Denigrade
c- Denegrate
d- None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: We use phonetics to comprehend the pronunciation and spelling of a word. Phonetic refers to the study of sound.

Complete answer:
As given in the hint, phonetics help in identifying the correct pronunciation of a word. Phonetics makes us confident and enhances our speech.
In the given question- Denigrate refers to defaming or speaking ill of someone. The word ‘denigrate’ has been derived from the Latin word- Denigrare, which means away completely.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘denigrate’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
For example- Greedy businessmen are trying to denigrate the public sector. Here, we can conclude that some greedy businessmen are speaking ill or defaming the public sector.
Now, let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Denigrate’ refers to giving someone a bad name. The spelling of the word matches with its phonetic sounds. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option b- ‘Denigrade’ is not an accurate word because it does not exist in the English dictionary. The spelling of the word ‘denigrate’ does not match with the phonetic sounds of this word. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Denegrate’ is not an appropriate word because it does not exist in the English dictionary. The spelling of the word ‘denigrate’ does not match with the phonetic sounds of this word. Hence, it is an incorrect option. The correct answer is Option ‘a’.

Note:
 Keep in mind, it is important to match the spelling of a word with its phonetic sounds. Some synonyms of the ‘denigrate’ are; defame, criticize, disparage, etc.