Spelling Words With Double Consonants

It can be difficult to hear double consonants when a word is said aloud – especially if the word has only one syllable – but both consonants must be used when writing the word. Double consonants are frequently found in words which have a suffix added to them.

I dropped the heavy bags to the floor.

Even though there’s only one syllable (dropt), the word is written as if it had two syllables. It’s important that both p’s be included in the spelling.

Please tell your mother that I’ll call back later.

The general practitioner referred him to a specialist.

Some words can be pronounced as either one or two syllables, but the spelling remains the same.

Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the Earth.

In this sentence, blessed is pronounced as two syllables. (bless – ed)

The father blessed his son before the wedding.

In this sentence, blessed is pronounced as one syllable. (blest)

In some cases, the double consonant can change the pronunciation and the meaning of the word.

Cacti are native to the desert.

Would you like ice cream for dessert?