Benign or Beign
Which Spelling is Correct? Confused between "benign" and "beign"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
Beign
Incorrect spelling - This is the incorrect spelling. "Beign" is a common misspelling that omits the "n".
"Beign" is a common misspelling of "Benign". Always use "Benign" when referring to the correct word.
Benign
Correct spelling - The proper way to spell this word.
This is the correct spelling. "Benign" comes from the Latin word "benignus."
Definition of Benign
"Benign": This is the correct spelling. "Benign" comes from the Latin word "benignus."
This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
Synonyms for Benign
- • Harmless
- • Gentle
- • Kindly
- • Mild
- • Non-threatening
Usage Examples
"Correct:" The tumor was benign and not life-threatening.
"Correct:" She had a benign smile that put everyone at ease.
"Correct:" The benign weather made for a perfect picnic day.
Notes:
- • "Benign" comes from the Latin word "benignus" meaning kind or good.
- • The word has two syllables: "be-nign" with the stress on the second syllable.
- • "Beign" is a phonetic misspelling that omits the "n" sound.
- • In medical terminology, "benign" specifically means not cancerous or malignant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "benign" have an "n"?
"Benign" has an "n" because it comes from the Latin word "benignus," which includes the "n" sound.
Is "beign" ever correct?
No, "beign" is never correct in English. It's always a misspelling of "benign."
What's the difference between "benign" and "malignant"?
In medical terms, "benign" means not cancerous or harmful, while "malignant" means cancerous and potentially life-threatening.
How can I remember the correct spelling?
Remember that "benign" comes from Latin "benignus" and has the same "n" sound. Think of "be-nign" as two syllables.
Are there other words that follow this same pattern?
Yes! Words like "malign" (from Latin "malignus"), "design" (from Latin "designare"), and "sign" (from Latin "signum") all have similar patterns.
Summary
"Benign" is the correct spelling, while "beign" is incorrect. The word comes from the Latin "benignus" and means gentle, kindly, or not harmful. In medical contexts, it specifically refers to non-cancerous conditions. Always use "benign" in formal and informal writing.