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The ‘i before e except after c’ rule

The ‘i before e except after c’ rule

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The ‘i before e except after c’ rule

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Explainer Video

Tutor: Jonathan

Summary

The 'i before e except after c' rule

In a nutshell

'I' before 'e' except after 'c' is a common rhyme to help you spell correctly, however it is not that simple. In this summary, you will learn this rule as well as its exceptions.


 

Spelling rule

The common rule of thumb "'i' before 'e' except after 'c'" covers the correct spelling of many words. This works for words that make a 'ee' sound (like in see and bee).


'I' before 'e'


Examples
  • ​Piece
  • Field
  • Brief


Except after 'c'


Examples
  • ​Receive
  • Receipt



Exceptions

The rhyme does continue, stating "or when pronounced as 'a' as in neighbour or weigh."


Examples
  • Foreign
  • Protein
  • Seize                                  


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The ‘i before e except after c’ rule

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The ‘i before e except after c’ rule

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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the rule "'i' before 'e' except after 'c'"?

'I' before 'e' except after 'c' is a common rhyme to help you spell correctly.

Are there exceptions to the "'i' before 'e' except after 'c'" rule?

Yes, the most common being in neighbour and weigh.

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