Affair or Afair
Which Spelling is Correct?
Understanding the difference between "Affair" or "Afair": these commonly confused spellings and how to use them properly.
Incorrect: Afair
"Afair" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "affair" with double 'f'.
Correct: Affair
"Affair" is the correct spelling. It means a matter, event, or situation.
Definition of Affair
Affair (noun): A matter, event, or situation; a romantic or sexual relationship outside of marriage; a business or political matter; something that concerns or involves someone; an event or occurrence.
Examples:
- • The business affair was conducted professionally.
- • The political affair dominated the news headlines.
- • She had an affair with her colleague.
- • The whole affair was quite embarrassing.
Synonyms for Affair
Common Synonyms:
- • Matter
- • Event
- • Situation
- • Incident
- • Business
Related Terms:
- • Relationship
- • Liaison
- • Scandal
- • Episode
- • Occurrence
Usage Notes
Important Points:
- • Affair is spelled with double 'f', not single 'f'.
- • It's commonly used in business, political, and personal contexts.
- • Can refer to both formal and informal situations.
- • The word suggests something that involves or concerns someone.
- • The word comes from the Old French "afaire" meaning "to do."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is "afair" ever correct?
A: No, "afair" is never correct. The proper spelling is always "affair" with double 'f'.
Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?
A: Think of "affair" as having two 'f's because it involves two parties or aspects. The word comes from Old French "afaire" meaning "to do."
Q: What's the difference between affair and event?
A: "Affair" is broader and can refer to any matter or situation, while "event" specifically refers to something that happens at a particular time and place.
Q: Can affair be used as a verb?
A: No, "affair" is only used as a noun. The verb form would be "affect" or "concern."
Q: Is affair always negative?
A: No, "affair" is neutral and can refer to both positive and negative situations, though it often implies something significant or noteworthy.
Q: Why do people often misspell this word?
A: The misspelling "afair" likely occurs because people may not remember the double 'f' or may confuse it with similar words.
Q: What are some common phrases using "affair"?
A: Common phrases include: love affair, business affair, family affair, state of affairs, private affair, and public affair.
Q: Can "affair" be used in formal writing?
A: Yes, "affair" is appropriate in formal writing. It's a standard English word that can be used in academic, business, and professional contexts.
Summary
Remember: Affair is the correct spelling with double 'f'. It means a matter, event, or situation. The misspelling "afair" with single 'f' is never correct. Use this word when referring to any matter, event, or situation that involves or concerns someone.