Privilege Or Priviledge: What Is The Correct Spelling?

When it comes to the word Privilege or Priviledge, there’s often confusion surrounding its spelling. Some people mistakenly write it as priviledge, but this is incorrect. In this article, we’ll explore the correct spelling, the reasons behind the confusion, and the meaning of the word in different contexts. Along the way, we’ll also cover some example scenarios, including emails, where the word appears, to clarify how it should be used in real-world situations.

Privilege vs. Priviledge: The Key Differences

The correct spelling is privilege (with only one “i” after the “v”). The alternate spelling priviledge is a common misspelling that stems from misapplying a phonetic rule. Many people mistakenly assume that since words like knowledge or acknowledge contain “ledge” at the end, privilege should follow the same pattern.

However, English spelling rules are complex, and privilege doesn’t fit that pattern. Understanding these small differences will help you avoid common errors.

Why People Make the Mistake

The mistake comes from how we pronounce the word. When we say privilege, the sound of the word might suggest that there’s an extra “i” in the middle. This leads to the misspelling priviledge. Unfortunately, just because a word sounds like it could follow a pattern doesn’t mean it actually does in English.

The spelling “priviledge” has been common in informal writing, but standard dictionaries list privilege as the only correct spelling. So, whether you’re writing an email or crafting a formal letter, remember that privilege is the right choice.

What Does Privilege Mean?

The word privilege can have several meanings depending on the context, but in most cases, it refers to a special right or advantage granted to a particular person or group. Here are some common meanings:

• A special right: A privilege often refers to a benefit or right that others do not have, such as exclusive access to something.
• An advantage: It could also refer to a situation where someone has an upper hand over others due to their social status, wealth, or other factors.
• A feeling of honor or gratitude: People often use the word to describe a sense of honor, such as “It’s a privilege to meet you.”

Let’s explore a few examples.

Example 1: Workplace Privilege

Imagine Sarah, a senior manager at a tech company, is writing an email to a colleague:

Subject: A Special Privilege

Email:
Hi Mark,

I wanted to take a moment to remind you how privileged we are to have access to the new software before its official release. This gives us a competitive advantage and allows us to fine-tune our product before others get the chance.

Best regards,
Sarah

In this case, privileged refers to a special advantage that Sarah and her team have because they’re getting early access to the software.

Example 2: Personal Privilege

Now, let’s look at a personal scenario. John is writing a message to his friend, Emma, after receiving an award at work.

Subject: I Feel Privileged

Message:
Hey Emma,

I just wanted to let you know that I feel incredibly privileged to have been selected for this award. It’s such an honor, and I’m grateful to everyone who supported me along the way.

Talk soon,
John

Here, John uses privileged to express a feeling of honor and gratitude for the recognition.

Example 3: Privilege in Social Context

Alice and Ben are discussing societal privileges over coffee.

Alice:
“I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the privileges I have just because I was born into a certain family. It’s not something everyone gets, and I’m very aware of it.”

Ben:
“That’s true. A lot of people don’t realize how much privilege can shape a person’s life path. It’s important to acknowledge that.”

In this context, privilege refers to the advantages one might receive because of social factors like family, race, or economic status.

Common Misspellings of Privilege: Priviledge vs Privilege

• Priviledge: As mentioned earlier, this is a common mistake, usually made because people incorrectly assume that words like acknowledge follow the same pattern.
• Privilege: This is the correct spelling and should always be used in formal and informal writing.

The History Behind the Spelling

The word privilege comes from the Latin word privilegium, which means a law or law affecting a particular person or group. Over time, the word evolved, and its modern usage still conveys the idea of something granted or enjoyed by a select few.

The correct spelling, privilege, has remained consistent in dictionaries and authoritative grammar books. The variant spelling, priviledge, may have emerged due to phonetic misinterpretation, but it has never been accepted in formal English usage.

How to Pronounce Privilege

You might wonder how to pronounce privilege. The pronunciation is quite straightforward:

• Priv-ih-lij: The “i” sound is short, and the “e” at the end is almost silent.

It’s common to hear variations in pronunciation, such as priv-a-ledge, but the proper way to pronounce it is priv-ih-lij.

Understanding Privilege in Different Languages

In addition to understanding the English meaning of privilege, you might want to know how it translates in other languages.

Privilege Meaning in Hindi

In Hindi, privilege is translated as विशेषाधिकार (Visheshadhikar), which refers to special rights or privileges granted to an individual or group.

Privilege Meaning in Urdu

In Urdu, privilege translates to خصوصی حق (Khusoosi Haq), referring to a special right or advantage.

The Plural of Privilege

The plural form of privilege is privileges. For example:

• We enjoy many privileges as citizens of this country.
• The royal family has special privileges not afforded to ordinary people.

Sentences Using Privilege in Different Contexts

• Workplace Privilege: “It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented individuals.”
• Social Privilege: “Some individuals are born with privileges that others never have access to.”
• Personal Privilege: “I consider it a great privilege to help those in need.”

Common Spelling Mistakes and Correction

Common Spelling Mistake	Correct Version
Priviledge	Privilege
Privalege	Privilege
Privliged	Privileged
Priviledged	Privileged
Privlidge	Privilege
Privillige	Privilege
Privellge	Privilege
Privilage	Privilege

This table should help clarify the correct spelling to use in various contexts.

20 Key Points About Privilege vs Priviledge

1. Privilege is the correct spelling, while priviledge is a common misspelling.
2. Privilege comes from the Latin word privilegium, meaning a special law or right.
3. The word refers to a special advantage or right.
4. In formal writing, always use privilege.
5. Priviledge is often the result of phonetic misunderstanding.
6. The pronunciation of privilege is priv-ih-lij.
7. In Hindi, privilege is translated as विशेषाधिकार (Visheshadhikar).
8. In Urdu, privilege is translated as خصوصی حق (Khusoosi Haq).
9. The plural of privilege is privileges.
10. Privilege can refer to an exclusive right or advantage.
11. People may feel privileged when granted special treatment or recognition.
12. Privilege can relate to social status, like economic or racial advantages.
13. Using the term privilege is important when discussing inequality or societal issues.
14. Privilege is a common word in business, legal, and social contexts.
15. The word has been part of the English language since the Middle Ages.
16. In the workplace, being granted special privileges can provide a competitive edge.
17. In social discussions, privilege often refers to unearned benefits.
18. It’s a privilege to meet people with different perspectives and experiences.
19. Feeling privileged is an expression of honor or gratitude.
20. Always check spelling to ensure you write privilege correctly in your documents.

Conclusion

Spelling privilege correctly is crucial in both professional and personal writing. Remember, the correct spelling is privilege, not priviledge. Avoiding this common mistake will improve your writing and ensure you communicate clearly and accurately. Whether you’re writing emails, articles, or even social media posts, knowing the right way to spell and use this word will make your writing more polished and professional.