respell: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “respell” mean?
To spell a word again, often in a different way or using a different system.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To spell a word again, often in a different way or using a different system.
1. To write out the spelling of a word, especially using a phonetic alphabet to clarify pronunciation. 2. To adopt or propose an alternative spelling for a word.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word itself is used identically. Differences arise in the specific spelling systems being referenced (e.g., British vs. American spellings).
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to specialist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “respell” in a Sentence
to respell [OBJ] as [COMPLEMENT]to respell [OBJ] phoneticallyto respell [OBJ] using [SYSTEM]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “respell” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The dictionary will respell 'schedule' as /ˈʃɛdjuːl/.
- They had to respell the Welsh placename for an English audience.
American English
- The style guide asks us to respell 'color' as 'colour' for the UK edition.
- Can you respell that using the military alphabet?
adverb
British English
- No standard adverb form in common use.
American English
- No standard adverb form in common use.
adjective
British English
- No standard adjective form in common use.
American English
- No standard adjective form in common use.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in branding discussions about simplifying a company name.
Academic
Common in linguistics, phonetics, and language teaching texts.
Everyday
Very rare. Used when explaining spelling, e.g., 'Let me respell my surname for you.'
Technical
Core term in lexicography for providing pronunciation guides.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “respell”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “respell”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “respell”
- Using 'respell' to mean 'pronounce differently'.
- Confusing it with 'misspell'.
- Incorrect stress: 'REspell' instead of 'reSPELL'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Respell' refers to writing a word with different letters or symbols. 'Pronounce' refers to speaking it.
No, it is a low-frequency, technical word used mainly in linguistics, education, and lexicography.
Yes. Respelling the Russian name 'Чайковский' for English readers as 'Tchaikovsky' is a common example.
'Transcribe' has a broader meaning (to write down spoken material). 'Respell' is more specific, focusing on changing or specifying the spelling of a *word*.
To spell a word again, often in a different way or using a different system.
Respell is usually formal, technical in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Respell it for sound.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think RE + SPELL. You are SPELLing something again (RE).
Conceptual Metaphor
WRITING IS REPRESENTATION (of sound).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the verb 'to respell' most appropriately used?