Why is it such a big deal if someone spells a word wrong?

Question

Why is there so many people on here that abuse people over spelling a word wrong? There could be several of words spelt incorrectly but the question is still readable, but still bad spelling is a reason to be againts this person and abuse them over the spelling and the question...ok somtimes you can't understand the question at all. but still, what is the point of abusing them.

What is even important about being a perfect speller? Well yes, you apear smarter if you spell words right, and even smarter if there long words spelt right, but really being good at spelling has hardly anything to do with how smart or capible you are. I just think its just such a small insignificant thing treated as such a big deal.

Answer 1

You don't think education is a big deal?

Answer 2

While I'll agree that spelling a word incorrectly is not that big a deal, I do have quite a problem with horrible grammar mistakes. Such as the ones you've made above. I, for one, think that proper spelling and an attempt at the correct use of punctuation make a person seem a little more intelligent. I don't understand how someone can type a question out and not realize that it is either grammatically incorrect or filled with spelling mistakes. People should take the time to read what they are putting out there, even if it is on the internet. It's a reflection of who you are and I wouldn't want to be known for looking like an idiot.

Answer 3

On one hand, spelling is not a definite indicator of intelligence. On the other hand, a misspelling stands out and is much more easily identified than more weighty matters. Some people will jump on that with a vengeance. Also, spelling is taught in its basic forms in lower elementary school so that the lack of use of standard spelling is considered to be a basic lack of education. It can be a wrong-headed inference, but it's still there. Like it or not, we are all stuck with a spelling system that comes from the use of an alphabet (Roman) that was designed for a language other than English (Latin). Not only that, the spellings started to become standardized about the time the printing press came into common use in Europe, in the late 1400s, when a massive change in vowel usage happened. So, you have to spell late Middle English while speaking Modern English. Add to that the fact that we have borrowed both words AND spelling from their original languages. I am sorry for your difficulties, but to be part of a larger group, you're stuck with using the same spellings that we all have to/had to learn. You are not stupid, no. But if I were to make typos or spelling mistakes, I would be judged the same as you. I hope that didn't sound overbearing, but if it did, I apologize. It's what we all live with.

Answer 4

You should read the first chapter of "Grammar Snobs are Great Big Meanies" by June Casagrande. It's about people who nitpick over grammar rules, but it applies to people who nitpick about spelling too. Basically, there are a few people out there who only care to show off how smart they are, and to make themselves look superior by putting others down. It's an easy way to make yourself look smart, without really having to have much knowledge.

For example, in your question, you misspelled a word that probably isn't just a typo: capable (not capible). If I know that, I can easily put you down by saying something like, "It's CAPABLE, not CAPIBLE.. why don't you get a dictionary, or at least use spell checker for chrissake." And even though I'm making fun of people who make fun of that, I bet you anything someone below me will ignore what I said and point out the misspelling.

There's some merit behind judging people on their spelling. You don't have to have a fantastic memory, but it shows that you've put a little extra effort into what you're writing, to make it look polished. It's a quick and easy way to size up someone by their writing. It's kind of like judging someone's personal hygiene habits by how clean their shoes look. If their shoes look awful, it doesn't matter how nice the rest of them looks, because they're a slob (or at least so it's thought). The problem is that people make these convenient indicators into absolute guides. If somebody misspells anything, they must be an idiot (or at least so it's thought).

Answer 5

try to understand this..... alot of people have spent a long time learning how to spell correctly and it was drilled into their heads at an early age in school that spelling is one of the most important skills you can have in your life. It's called education. It's very difficult to read through someone's question with poor grammar and poor spelling. Even more so, it's harder to believe that so many people out there could have even graduated from high school with poor spelling habits!

I agree though, this isn't a place for bashing poor spellers, it's a question forum full of people only looking for answers, not criticism for how they look or how they type. (alot of times I would rather think it's typing errors, not poor spelling).....

don't take it seriously, really I think that there are just some that get irritated with it and to make them feel better they make comments. as long as you get a fair answer, I would just ignore the other stuff.

Answer 6

Poor spelling, grammar and punctuation make it difficult to understand what people are saying. Sometimes I give up on a question or an answer because it will take too long to decipher it. Then I am irritated because I have already wasted time trying to read it.

Too many people here write in a way that is completely incomprehensible. I do not abuse people, but I can understand why others might be infuriated enough to do so.

Answer 7

There are some peoples who are very particular with the spelling or grammar in here, you can't avoid or nor cease them coz they are absolutely annoyed with someone who did a wrong spelling. As a matter of fact, we've learned to write a correct spelling since were in grade school, so we can not blame them i guess. By the way, nobody's perfect.

So, to avoid peoples abusing us in writing the spelling take care that you never spell a word wrong. Always before you write a word, consider how it is spelled, and, if you do not remember, turn to a dictionary. It produces great praise to a lady to spell well. Good luck and take my advice gur'!

Answer 8

It doesn't bother me if there is an error here and there, but I find when reading large passages with loads of mistakes it really messes with ones eyes and I end up feeling like I've got dyslexia. Good spelling makes everything easier to read, understand and you get your points across better and yes it does reflect on how educated you are or if you are just lazy. Constant bad spelling and acceptance of it is erosion of the English language. The same goes for punctuation, there is a reason for it same as for good spelling. These are my reasons for liking spelling.

Answer 9

Actually it is not a big deal getting your spellings wrong.But it does matter if you are studying English as a language where you are expected to know it thoroughly.If you are a good speaker you impress many by talking, but just think if you can speak so fluently one expects you to have a good command over the language and hence when you are caught with a wrong spelling it is highlighted and you feel bad about it.

Answer 10

Clarity and precision are essential component of any communication. A wrong spelling can well distort the meaning of a word and alter the very nature of t he question. Those members of Y/A who abuse the incorrect spelling are perfectly correct and within their rights to do so.Imagine his frustration,when he reads again and again,any question with few wrongly spelled words,applies his mind to understand the question,in attempt to help the questioner and fails to understand. He feels that he has wasted his precious time.He feels he has been cheated.The natural consequence is that he advises the questioner to be careful with the spellings in future. No one will see any wrong in that.

Answer 11

I agree that spelling and grammar are very important in the real world. Having said that, I will say that since this forum is for all ages, levels of education, and nationalities, that the askers should be given a break. The point is to answer their questions, not to criticize their presentation. I think it is difficult for many people to ask questions, and they don't deserve to be shot down for their efforts.