Topic: English Vocabulary (Spelling)
Step 1 : Understanding the Question:
This question tests the candidate's ability to recognize the standard spelling of a common but frequently misspelled English noun. Spelling mastery requires knowledge of prefix-root-suffix combinations and silent letter patterns.
Step 2 : Key Formulas and approach:
The most effective approach is the syllabic breakdown method. By dividing the word into its constituent parts—prefix, root, and suffix—one can identify the correct morphological structure. The word is composed of "ac-" (prefix), "quaint" (the root), and "-ance" (the suffix).
Step 3 : Detailed Explanation:
The Root Word: The core of the word is "quaint," which relates to something familiar or known. This requires the "q-u-a-i-n-t" sequence. Option (C) is eliminated because it places the 'c' before the 'q'.
The Prefix: The prefix "ac-" is added to the beginning. Option (D) "Acquantance" is incorrect because it misses the "i" that is essential to the "quaint" root.
The Suffix (-ance vs -ence): A common error in English is confusing the suffixes "-ance" and "-ence." For "acquaintance," the noun is derived from the Old French "acointance," which dictates the use of an 'a' in the final syllable.
Final Construction: When we assemble ac + quaint + ance, we arrive at the spelling "Acquaintance," which refers to a person one knows slightly but is not a close friend.
Step 4 : Final Answer:
The correctly spelt word among the choices is (B) Acquaintance.