Separate vs Seperate

This explanation is all about the correct Spelling of the word separate. This English word is misspelt quite often. But what is the meaning of separate? And are there any synonyms you can use if you are no longer sure whether it means separate or seperate?

Meaning of separate

The meaning of the word separate is to be apart, divided, or distinct from something else. It refers to things or entities that are not connected or combined with each other.

The English word separate is derived from the Latin word separatus, which is the past Participle of the Verb 'separare.' In Latin, 'separare' means to set apart, to divide, or to isolate. The word is composed of two elements: 'se,' meaning 'apart,' and 'parare,' meaning 'to prepare' or 'to arrange.' Therefore, the Latin root suggests the idea of arranging or preparing something to be apart or distinct from others.

Over time, the Latin word 'separatus' made its way into Middle English as 'separat,' and eventually evolved into the modern English Adjective 'separate.' Separate transforms into various forms such as separated, separately or individually. You use the word to express that something is independent, separate or distinct from other things or people.

Look at these example sentences:

The correct spelling of separate

Have you ever got confused when writing the word 'separate' and written 'seperate' first? It's a common slip-up, but let's be honest, 'seperate' just doesn't look quite right, does it?

According to the English dictionary, the correct Spelling is actually 'separate.' In fact, it's listed as one of those tricky words that can cause Spelling difficulties in English grammar. So, don't worry if you've stumbled upon this Spelling challenge before. Many others have too!

If you're looking for some guidance to remember the correct spelling of 'separate,' here are a few tips you can keep in mind:

1. Recall the Latin origin of the word. The Latin word 'separatus' contains an 'a' and not an 'e.'

2. Create a mnemonic device or phrase to help you remember the correct spelling. For example, you could think of 'Separated like an A, not like an E.'

3. Practice writing the word in example sentences to reinforce the correct spelling.

Synonym for separate

There are several synonyms for the word 'separate', i.e. words that mean something similar. See the following table for example sentences:

You can also use 'extra' or 'shared' as synonyms.

Separate examples

To illustrate the use and meaning of the word 'separate' in English grammar, here are some more examples: