Inflection

usgb/ɪnˈflekʃn/
noun

A change in the form of a word that shows a change in tense, number, etc.

In the sentence, 'I wrote a book', 'wrote' is an inflection of 'write'.
Visual representation of "inflection" - A change in the form of a word that shows a change in tense, number, etc.

Often appears as...

  • grammatical inflection
  • inflection point

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "inflection"
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Word Variety

Understanding inflections helps you express actions in past, present, or future.

Illustration for Word Variety
'Speak' inflects to 'spoke' for past and 'will speak' for future.
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Spelling Patterns

Some inflections follow regular patterns, making them easier to learn.

Illustration for Spelling Patterns
Adding 'ed' for past tense, as in 'jump' becoming 'jumped'.
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Odd Exceptions

Watch out for irregular inflections that don't follow normal rules.

Illustration for Odd Exceptions
'Go' inflects to 'went', not 'goed'.
Visual representation of the word "Inflection"

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