play video schwa
Usage Notes

The Schwa

The most common vowel sound in English causes many spelling problems.


The schwa is one significant reason that English is difficult to spell. A single sound that can be spelled many different ways leads to occasional confusion for almost all of us. And even the very best spellers sometimes have to admit, I fought the schwa and the schwa won.

Up next

play video schwa
The Schwa

 

The most common vowel sound in English causes many spelling problems.

play video healthy vs healthful
Healthy vs. Healthful

 

Why both words are equally good for you.

play ismo merriam webster tip
Some Odd Words with ISMO: "People Tipping"

 

Comedian ISMO on the complexities of the word 'tip'

play alright allright video
Alright vs. All Right

 

Is 'alright' all right?

play video his or her
Is singular 'they' a better choice?

 

The awkward case of 'his or her'