Attacked or Attacted
Which Spelling is Correct? Confused between "attacked" and "attacted"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
attacted
Incorrect spelling - This spelling is incorrect and should not be used.
"attacted" is a common misspelling of "attacked". Always use "attacked" when referring to the correct word.
attacked
Correct spelling - The proper way to spell this word.
This is the correct spelling of the past tense and past participle of "attack."
Definition of attacked
"attacked": This is the correct spelling of the past tense and past participle of "attack."
This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
Synonyms for attacked
- • assaulted
- • struck
- • charged
- • raided
- • invaded
Usage Examples
"Correct:" The army attacked the enemy position at dawn.
"Correct:" She attacked the problem with enthusiasm.
"Correct:" The critics attacked the new movie for its poor plot.
"Correct:" He attacked his homework immediately after school.
"Incorrect:" The critics "attacted" the new movie for its poor plot. (never used "attacted" and correct spelling is "attacked".
Notes:
- • Use "attacked" as the past tense and past participle of "attack"
- • Remember that "attacked" uses "k" not "c" before "ed"
- • Common contexts include military, sports, criticism, and problem-solving
- • The word "attacked" can refer to both physical and verbal actions
- • Always spell it as "attacked" not "attacted"
- • Think of it as "attack" + "ed" to remember the spelling
- • Phonetic similarity: Both spellings would sound similar when pronounced
- • Common misspelling: Many people transpose the "c" and "k" when spelling the word
- • Inconsistent English spelling rules: Some words do have "c" before "k"
- • Lack of exposure: Not seeing the correct spelling frequently enough
- • Typographical errors: Transposing letters when typing quickly
- • Influence from other words: Words like "contact" have "c" before "t"
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is "attacted" ever correct?
A: No, "attacted" is never correct in standard English. The correct spelling is always "attacked."
Q: What's the difference between "attacked" and "contacted"?
A: "Attacked" means to have acted violently or critically against something, while "contacted" means to have communicated with someone.
Q: How can I remember the correct spelling?
A: Remember that "attacked" uses "k" not "c" before "ed." Think of it as "attack" + "ed" or use the mnemonic: "Attacked uses 'k' for 'kick' and 'knock'."
Q: Is this a common spelling mistake?
A: Yes, this is a common spelling mistake. Many people transpose the "c" and "k" when writing "attacked," especially when typing quickly or relying on phonetic spelling.
Q: Can "attacked" be used in different contexts?
A: Yes, "attacked" can be used in various contexts including military, sports, criticism, problem-solving, and general conflict situations.
Q: What about the base form?
A: The base form is "attack" and it also follows the same spelling pattern with "k" at the end.
Summary
Remember: Attacked is the correct spelling with "ck" in the middle. It means to assault or criticize. The misspelling "attacted" with "ct" is never correct. Always use "attacked" when referring to assaults or criticisms.