The word "alphabetical" is spelled a-l-p-h-a-b-e-t-i-c-a-l. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /ˌælfəˈbɛtɪkəl/. The stress is on the second syllable (/fə/). The first sound is the schwa (/ə/), followed by the consonant cluster /lf/. The next syllable starts with the sound /b/, followed by /ɛt/. The fourth syllable has the schwa sound again, followed by /ɪk/. The final syllable is pronounced as /əl/. Knowing the spelling helps us easily locate this word in a dictionary or encyclopedia.
The term "alphabetical" pertains to the arrangement or ordering of items, particularly words, names, or other elements, based on the sequence of letters in the alphabet. It is a systematic method that categorizes and organizes data by following the sequential pattern of letters, starting from A to Z.
When information is organized alphabetically, it means that it is sorted in an order dictated by the letters of the alphabet. In an alphabetical arrangement, each element is positioned according to the first letter in the sequence, and when multiple elements begin with the same letter, they are further arranged based on the subsequent letters.
This methodology is extensively used in various contexts, such as dictionaries, directories, indexes, bibliographies, and even in sorting contacts in electronic devices or arranging files on computer systems. By employing alphabetical order, finding specific items becomes more efficient and less time-consuming, as users can navigate through the list or collection by directly locating the first letter of the desired item and proceeding accordingly.
Alphabetical ordering has become an essential and widely accepted system due to its simplicity, as it provides a logical and uniform approach to organizing information. This method allows individuals to quickly locate and retrieve specific items from vast collections, supporting the ease of access and facilitating efficient management of data.
• Literal.
• Arranged in the order of the alphabet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "alphabetical" originated from the late 16th century, derived from the Latin word "alphabetum", which itself was borrowed from the Greek word "alphabētos". The Greek term was formed by combining the names of the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: "alpha" and "beta". Therefore, "alphabetical" refers to the order or arrangement of letters according to the alphabet.