Apocope

usgb/əˈpɑːkəpi/
noun

The removal of a letter or syllable from the end of a word.

In Spanish, the word 'casa' experiences apocope when used for masculine nouns, becoming 'caso'.
Visual representation of "apocope" - The removal of a letter or syllable from the end of a word.

Often appears as...

  • vowel apocope
  • consonant apocope

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "apocope"
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Language Specific

Understanding apocope may vary across languages; it's pronounced and used differently in each.

Illustration for Language Specific
Apocope in English 'ad' from 'advertisement' differs from Spanish 'buen' from 'bueno'.
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Common in Speech

Apocope occurs frequently in casual conversation, often without us realizing it.

Illustration for Common in Speech
Saying 'I'm gonna' instead of 'I am going to' is an example of apocope.
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Not Always Correct

While common in daily speech, apocopes can be informal and sometimes grammatically incorrect in writing.

Illustration for Not Always Correct
In formal writing, avoid apocopes like 'info' for 'information'.
Visual representation of the word "Apocope"

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