Can you spell artifact with an E?

Can You Spell Artifact with an E?

When it comes to spelling the word "artifact," many people wonder if the correct spelling includes an "e" or not. The answer to this question can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of spelling and explore the correct spelling of the word "artifact."

Direct Answer

The direct answer to the question is that the correct spelling of the word "artifact" is artifact, without an "e". This spelling is widely accepted and used in most English-speaking countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.

Origins of the Word

The word "artifact" has its roots in Latin, where it is derived from the word "factum," meaning "made" or "done." The Latin word was later adopted into Middle English as "artefact," and eventually evolved into the modern English spelling "artifact."

Regional Variations

While the standard spelling of the word "artifact" is without an "e," there are some regional variations that may include an "e." For example, in British English, the word is often spelled as artefact, with an "e" added to the end. However, this variation is not as widely accepted as the standard spelling without an "e."

Why the "E" Disappeared

So, why did the "e" disappear from the spelling of "artifact"? One theory is that the "e" was dropped in the 16th century as a result of the influence of the Italian language on English. Italian words often dropped the "e" at the end, and this change was carried over into English words like "artifact."

Inconsistencies in Spelling

It’s worth noting that there are some inconsistencies in the spelling of "artifact" across different dictionaries and style guides. For example, some dictionaries may list both "artifact" and "artefact" as acceptable spellings, while others may only recognize one or the other. Additionally, some style guides, such as the Chicago Manual of Style, recommend using the spelling "artifact" without an "e," while others, like the AP Stylebook, allow for both spellings.

Table: Regional Variations in Spelling

RegionSpelling
United StatesArtifact
United KingdomArtefact
AustraliaArtifact
CanadaArtifact

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct spelling of the word "artifact" is artifact, without an "e". While there may be regional variations and inconsistencies in spelling, the standard spelling without an "e" is widely accepted and used in most English-speaking countries.

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