How Do You Spell FISH?

Pronunciation: [fˈɪʃ] (IPA)

The word "fish" is spelled with four letters, but its pronunciation can be tricky for non-native English speakers. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /fɪʃ/, which means that the first sound is the "f" sound, followed by the "ih" or short "i" sound and then the "sh" or voiceless postalveolar fricative sound. The final "sh" sound can sometimes be mistaken for a "ch" sound by learners, leading to misspellings. However, with practice and attention to pronunciation, the spelling of "fish" can easily be mastered.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
Plural
Conjugate verb
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FISH Meaning and Definition

  1. Fish is a noun that refers to any of various cold-blooded aquatic vertebrates, typically having fins, gills, and a streamlined body, capable of swimming by flexing its body and tail. They belong to a diverse group of animals called pisces or piscine, which is characterized by their ability to respire through gills and their ability to swim by leveraging fins or other appendages. Fish are usually covered in scales, which protect their bodies and aid in movement through water.

    Fish come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be found in a wide range of aquatic habitats including oceans, rivers, lakes, and ponds. They play a significant ecological role as a primary food source for many marine and freshwater organisms, contributing to the overall balance and health of aquatic ecosystems.

    Humans have been harvesting fish for sustenance and trade for thousands of years, making them a valuable food source. Fishing is practiced through various methods, including nets, fishing lines, spears, and traps. Additionally, fishkeeping has become a popular hobby, with people raising and caring for fish species in aquariums.

    Fish exhibit a remarkable diversity, with tens of thousands of species identified so far and many more yet unrevealed. From the colorful tropical reef fish to the mighty predatory sharks and the iconic tuna, fish occupy a crucial place in the biological world and have captivated human interest throughout history.

  2. • An animal which inhabits the water, and breathes through gills; the flesh of a fish; a machine to hoist up the flukes of the anchor.
    • To seek to catch fish; to seek to obtain by artifice; to search by raking; to draw out or up.
    • Counter or marker at cards; a piece of wood secured to another to strengthen it.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FISH *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for FISH

Etymology of FISH

The word "fish" is derived from the Old English word "fisc", which can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "fiskaz". This Proto-Germanic term, in turn, is thought to have originated from a Proto-Indo-European root word "peisk", meaning "fish". The word has cognates in other Germanic languages such as Old Frisian "fisk", Old Norse "fiskr", and Dutch "vis". The exact origin beyond the Proto-Indo-European root is uncertain.

Idioms with the word FISH

  • fish story The idiom "fish story" refers to a wildly exaggerated or untrue account or tale, typically involving a person's accomplishments, experiences, or events related to fishing. It implies that the story is highly embellished, making it difficult to believe or accept as true.
  • fish out The idiom "fish out" typically means to carefully remove or bring out someone or something from a difficult or concerning situation or place. It can also refer to the act of finding or uncovering information, often through diligent search or investigation.
  • odd fish The idiom "odd fish" refers to someone who is peculiar or strange, often exhibiting unusual behavior or having eccentric qualities that make them stand out or difficult to understand.
  • fish tale The idiom "fish tale" refers to a story or account that is exaggerated or embellished, often to make it more interesting or impressive. It originates from the idea that fishermen tend to exaggerate the size or the difficulty of catching a fish when telling their stories.
  • fish something up out of something To "fish something up out of something" is an idiom that means to retrieve, find, or discover something from a difficult or uncertain situation or place. It implies the idea of searching thoroughly or making a concerted effort to recover or locate something.
  • There are plenty of fish in the sea The idiom "There are plenty of fish in the sea" is a common saying that means there are numerous options or opportunities available, particularly in terms of finding a new romantic partner or pursuing any desired objective, even if one particular option may not work out. It suggests that there are many potential alternatives out there, implying that one should not get discouraged easily and keep looking for other possibilities.
  • have other (or bigger) fish to fry The idiom "have other (or bigger) fish to fry" means to have more important or pressing matters to attend to, thereby implying that the current issue or task is comparatively insignificant or unimportant.
  • have bigger fish to fry The idiom "have bigger fish to fry" means to have more important or pressing matters to deal with than the current situation or task at hand. It suggests that one's attention or focus is needed elsewhere, on more significant or valuable things.
  • fish for a compliment The idiom "fish for a compliment" means seeking or attempting to obtain praise, flattery, or positive feedback from someone by subtly or directly encouraging them to compliment or praise you. This is often done through hints, self-deprecating comments or actions, or by drawing attention to one's accomplishments, appearance, or skills in the expectation of receiving compliments or validation.
  • need (something) (about) as much a fish needs a bicycle The idiom "need (something) (about) as much as a fish needs a bicycle" is a playful and sarcastic expression used to convey that someone or something has absolutely no use or need for another thing. It highlights the excessive or absurd nature of the proposed association. It originated from a feminist slogan in the 1970s that aimed to challenge traditional gender roles and question the necessity of dependence on the opposite sex. The idiom has since evolved into a common phrase used to emphasize the insignificance or irrelevance of a particular need or desire.
  • fish out of water The idiom "fish out of water" refers to a person who feels awkward, uncomfortable, or out of place in a particular situation or environment. It conveys the sense of being unfamiliar or unaccustomed to one's surroundings, resembling a fish that is removed from its natural habitat and struggles to adapt to a new environment.
  • a pretty/fine kettle of fish The idiom "a pretty/fine kettle of fish" is used to describe a difficult, complicated, or messy situation. It suggests that the situation is problematic, chaotic, or undesirable.
  • fish around The definition of the idiom "fish around" is to search or explore in a casual or uncertain manner, often with the purpose of finding something specific or gathering information.
  • be another/a different kettle of fish The idiom "be another/a different kettle of fish" means to be completely different from something or someone else that has been mentioned or discussed. It expresses that the situation or person being referred to is not comparable or similar to what was previously mentioned.
  • be another kettle of fish The idiom "be another kettle of fish" is used to describe a situation or person that is different or unrelated to the one previously mentioned. It suggests that something or someone is a separate matter altogether.
  • cold fish The idiom "cold fish" refers to someone who is distant, unemotional, or unresponsive in their behavior and interactions with others. It describes a person who is not easily approachable or warm in their demeanor, lacking in personal warmth or friendliness.
  • all is fish that comes to his net The idiom "all is fish that comes to his net" means that someone is willing to accept or take advantage of any opportunity or advantage that presents itself, regardless of its worth or integrity. This person is not selective and is driven by personal gain rather than moral considerations.
  • a pretty kettle of fish The definition of the idiom "a pretty kettle of fish" is a situation that has become complicated, messy, or difficult to resolve.
  • fish sth up out of sth The idiom "fish something up out of something" refers to the act of retrieving or finding something hidden or buried in a particular place or situation. It implies putting effort into locating or obtaining something that requires some searching or digging.
  • neither fish, flesh, nor fowl The idiom "neither fish, flesh, nor fowl" refers to something or someone that does not fit into any specific category or classification, making it difficult to define or categorize. It is often used to describe something or someone that is ambiguous, inconsistent, or doesn't align with predefined distinctions.
  • have other/bigger fish to fry The idiom "have other/bigger fish to fry" means to have more important or pressing matters to attend to rather than dealing with the current situation or problem. It implies that the person has higher priorities or concerns that take precedence over the current task or issue.
  • big fish/gun/noise/shot The idiom "big fish/gun/noise/shot" generally refers to someone or something that holds great importance or power in a particular context. It suggests the presence of a prominent or influential individual, an impactful event, or a significant development. The phrase emphasizes the significance, superiority, or major impact of the subject in question.
  • pretty kettle of fish The idiom "a pretty kettle of fish" is used to describe a messy or chaotic situation. It typically refers to a problem or a situation gone wrong, often resulting in a complicated or difficult predicament.
  • a cold fish The idiom "a cold fish" typically describes a person who is detached, unfriendly, or lacking in emotions or warmth. It refers to someone who is unresponsive or unengaging in social interactions, often appearing distant and unapproachable.
  • be a big fish in a small pond The idiom "be a big fish in a small pond" refers to a situation where someone is highly influential, important, or successful, but only within a limited or less competitive environment. It suggests that the person's accomplishments or skills may not be as significant or recognized in a larger or more competitive setting.
  • neither fish nor fowl (nor good red herring) The idiom "neither fish nor fowl (nor good red herring)" refers to something or someone that does not fit into any specific category or classification. It signifies that the subject in question is not easily defined or categorized, exhibiting traits or characteristics from multiple, contrasting categories. It often implies confusion, ambiguity, or lack of clarity.
  • be a different kettle of fish The idiom "be a different kettle of fish" means to be a completely different matter or situation than what was previously discussed or expected. It suggests that the thing or situation being referred to is distinct or separate from the present topic or context.
  • there are other (good) fish in the sea The idiom "there are other (good) fish in the sea" is used to console someone who has recently experienced a romantic disappointment or breakup. It means that there are plenty of other potential partners or opportunities available in the world, suggesting that they shouldn't dwell on the loss because they have a chance to find someone or something better in the future.
  • be neither fish nor fowl The idiom "be neither fish nor fowl" refers to something or someone that does not fit into any distinct category or cannot be easily classified. It suggests a state of ambiguity or uncertainty, where the thing or person in question does not fully belong to any specific group or align with any particular characteristics.
  • there are plenty more fish in the sea The idiom "there are plenty more fish in the sea" means that if a particular person or opportunity does not work out, there are many other options available. It often reflects the idea of not getting too discouraged or disappointed over a lost opportunity or failed relationship, as there are countless other possibilities to explore.
  • a big fish The idiom "a big fish" refers to a person who holds a position of power, influence, or importance in a particular field or organization. It generally implies that the person is prominent, successful, and significant in their respective domain.
  • another kettle of fish The idiom "another kettle of fish" is used to describe a completely different or separate matter or issue from what is being discussed or previously mentioned. It implies that the new topic is dissimilar or unrelated to the current one.
  • fish for something To "fish for something" is an idiomatic expression that means to try to obtain or elicit something indirectly, often by subtly dropping hints or asking strategic questions in order to receive the desired response or information, similar to how one uses bait to catch fish. It involves seeking or attempting to gain what one wants in a roundabout or suggestive manner rather than directly and openly asking for it.
  • fish sm or sth out of sth To "fish something out of something" means to retrieve or extract something from a place or situation with effort or skill. It implies searching or digging and often refers to obtaining something that is not easily accessible or hidden within something else.
  • fish in troubled waters The idiom "fish in troubled waters" means to take advantage of a difficult or chaotic situation for personal gain or advantage. It refers to someone who is opportunistic and thrives in times of strife or turmoil, using the chaos to their benefit.
  • big wheel, at big fish/gun/noise/shot The idiom "big wheel" typically refers to a person of great importance or influence. When combined with phrases like "big fish," "big gun," "big noise," or "big shot," it emphasizes the prominence or expertise of that particular person. Essentially, it describes someone who holds a high position or wields significant power in a specific context or field.
  • crooked as a barrel of fish hooks The idiom "crooked as a barrel of fish hooks" refers to someone or something that is very deceitful, dishonest, or untrustworthy. It implies that the person or thing in question has a deep level of inherent dishonesty, similar to a barrel filled with fish hooks that are curved and pointed in order to deceive or harm.
  • other fish to fry The idiom "other fish to fry" is used to convey that a person has more important or pressing matters to attend to, rather than wasting time or energy on something less significant or unrelated. It signifies that there are more worthwhile or meaningful tasks or issues to deal with instead of focusing on the current or proposed activity.
  • be a whole other kettle of fish The idiom "be a whole other kettle of fish" means to be completely different from what was previously mentioned or discussed. It refers to a situation or topic that is unrelated or distinct, requiring separate consideration or treatment.
  • (as) crooked as a barrel of fish hooks The idiom "(as) crooked as a barrel of fish hooks" is used to describe something or someone that is extremely dishonest, deceitful, or untrustworthy. It highlights the magnitude of the dishonesty by comparing it to a whole barrel filled with crooked fish hooks, which presents a chaotic and tangled mess.
  • drink like a fish The idiom "drink like a fish" is used to describe someone who consumes a large or excessive amount of alcohol.
  • fish for sth The idiom "fish for something" means to subtly or indirectly try to obtain or elicit a specific reaction, answer, or information from someone. It refers to the act of fishing for fish by using bait to attract and catch them, but in a figurative sense, it implies using strategic or manipulative techniques to obtain what one desires.
  • not the only fish in the sea The idiom "not the only fish in the sea" means that there are other options or opportunities available. It implies that one should not get too fixated on one particular person or thing, as there are many other options or possibilities.
  • bigger fish to fry The idiom "bigger fish to fry" refers to having more important or pressing matters to attend to, rather than focusing on something comparatively trivial or irrelevant. It implies that one's attention or efforts are better directed elsewhere because there are more significant concerns or tasks at hand.
  • fish or cut bait The idiom "fish or cut bait" means to make a decision or take action, often implying that someone must either actively participate in a task or withdraw and allow others to proceed without them. It suggests that one needs to either commit fully to a task or abandon it and let others do it.
  • fish rots from the head down The idiom "fish rots from the head down" is a metaphorical expression that suggests that problems or corruption within an organization or group usually originate from its leadership, and subsequently affect the entire entity. It implies that if the leader or those in a position of authority are dishonest, unethical, or incompetent, these negative traits and behaviors will permeate throughout the organization and impact its overall effectiveness and integrity.
  • an odd/a queer fish The idiom "an odd/a queer fish" refers to a person who is peculiar, eccentric, or unusual in their behavior or interests. It implies that their thoughts and actions are different or unusual compared to others in a peculiar or unpredictable way.
  • a queer fish The idiom "a queer fish" typically refers to a person who is eccentric, odd, or unconventional in their behavior, appearance, or thinking. It suggests that the person is different from the norm or out of the ordinary in some way.
  • a different kettle of fish The idiom "a different kettle of fish" refers to a completely different matter or situation than the one previously mentioned or understood. It implies that the new topic or situation is distinct or separate from what has been previously discussed.
  • big fish in a small pond The idiom "big fish in a small pond" refers to a person who is influential, important, or successful within a limited or lesser-known environment or among a less accomplished group of people. This person may appear more significant than they actually are due to the limited context in which they operate.
  • There are plenty of (other) fish in the sea. The idiom "There are plenty of (other) fish in the sea" is used to comfort someone who has experienced a breakup or disappointment in love. It implies that there are many other potential romantic partners or opportunities available, and encourages the person to move on and not dwell on the loss.
  • flying fish The idiom "flying fish" refers to someone who is exceptionally talented or capable in their field, often displaying skills or abilities that seem extraordinary or surpassing expectations.
  • neither fish, flesh, nor good red herring The idiom "neither fish, flesh, nor good red herring" is used to describe something or someone that does not fit into any specific category or cannot be easily classified. It refers to something or someone that is ambiguous, uncertain, or not easily definable. The expression derives from a combination of three distinct food items, symbolizing different categories, and emphasizes the inability to be placed within any particular group or classification.
  • there are plenty/lots more fish in the sea The idiom "there are plenty/lots more fish in the sea" means that if one opportunity or relationship is lost or fails, there are still many other opportunities or potential partners available. It encourages optimism and suggests that there will always be other possibilities.
  • be like a fish out of water The idiomatic expression "be like a fish out of water" refers to someone who is uncomfortable, awkward, or out of place in a particular situation or environment, similar to how a fish would struggle and be unable to survive outside of its natural habitat.
  • need (something) like a fish needs a bicycle The idiom "need (something) like a fish needs a bicycle" is used to express that someone or something has absolutely no need or use for a particular thing. It implies that the thing being mentioned is completely unnecessary or irrelevant, similar to how a fish has no need for a bicycle.
  • big fish The idiom "big fish" typically refers to a significant or influential person, often with power or influence in a specific industry or area. It can also represent someone who is important, prominent, or successful in their field.
  • a fine kettle of fish The idiom "a fine kettle of fish" is used to describe a complicated or problematic situation. It refers to a situation that is messy, chaotic, or full of difficulties.
  • queer fish The idiom "queer fish" refers to an eccentric, odd, or peculiar person. It is used to describe someone who behaves or thinks in an unconventional or strange manner that may be perceived as unusual or out of the ordinary.
  • a big fish in a small pond The idiom "a big fish in a small pond" refers to a person who is important or influential within a limited or localized context, but would not hold the same significance in a larger or more competitive environment. It describes someone who may appear impressive relative to their immediate surroundings or peers, but their achievements or talents may not be as remarkable or recognized in a broader scope.
  • a fish out of water The idiom "a fish out of water" refers to someone who is uncomfortable or awkward in a particular situation or environment, often due to unfamiliarity or a lack of skill or experience. It signifies a sense of feeling out of place or ill-suited.
  • a pretty (or fine) kettle of fish The idiom "a pretty (or fine) kettle of fish" is used to describe a difficult or chaotic situation that is messy or problematic.
  • like a fish out of water The idiom "like a fish out of water" means to feel uncomfortable, awkward, or out of place in a particular situation or environment.
  • fish for The idiom "fish for" means the act of attempting to obtain or elicit a specific response, information, or reaction from someone by subtly or indirectly posing questions, making statements, or engaging in conversation. It is often used when someone is trying to obtain something indirectly or obtain a reaction from someone without asking directly.
  • teach a man to fish The idiom "teach a man to fish" means to provide someone with the necessary knowledge, skills, or resources to be able to take care of themselves, become self-sufficient, or solve their own problems, rather than simply providing temporary assistance or handouts. It emphasizes the importance of empowering and educating others to be self-reliant.
  • have other fish to fry The idiom "have other fish to fry" means to have more important or pressing matters to attend to than the current task or situation. It suggests that one has other priorities or concerns that require their attention and should not be bothered or distracted by the current issue.
  • a fine/pretty kettle of fish The idiom "a fine/pretty kettle of fish" typically means a complicated, challenging, or troublesome situation. It refers to a situation that has become difficult to handle or solve, often creating confusion or chaos.
  • be another different kettle of fish The idiom "be another different kettle of fish" means that something is entirely different or separate from the current topic or situation being discussed. It implies that the subject being referred to is not comparable or related to what has been previously mentioned.
  • have bigger/other fish to fry The idiom "have bigger/other fish to fry" means to have more important or pressing matters to attend to. It suggests that someone has more significant concerns or tasks that require their attention, making the current situation less important or less worthy of their focus.
  • fish to fry The idiom "fish to fry" is commonly used to refer to someone who has more important or pressing matters to attend to. It implies that a person has more significant concerns or tasks that they need to focus on, rather than wasting time on something trivial or unimportant.
  • fine kettle of fish The idiom "fine kettle of fish" is used to describe a difficult, awkward, or messy situation or predicament. It implies that the situation is troublesome or complicated and often refers to an unexpected or unwanted outcome.
  • neither fish nor flesh The idiom "neither fish nor flesh" refers to someone or something that does not fit into a specific category or cannot be strictly classified. It describes a state of being in between two different groups or qualities, instead of belonging to one distinct category. It can also imply indecisiveness or ambiguity.
  • like shooting fish in a barrel The idiom "like shooting fish in a barrel" means that a task or challenge is extremely easy or effortless to accomplish. It refers to a situation where something is so simple or predictable that success is almost guaranteed, comparable to shooting fish in a confined space where they have no chance to escape.
  • kettle of fish The idiom "kettle of fish" is a phrase used to describe a confusing or problematic situation that is difficult to resolve. It refers to a situation that is complicated or messy, often involving conflicting interests or opinions.
  • fish for compliments The idiom "fish for compliments" means to seek or elicit flattering remarks or praise from others. It refers to someone subtly or overtly trying to get others to compliment or praise them.
  • neither fish nor fowl The idiom "neither fish nor fowl" is used to describe something or someone that does not fit into either of two categories or cannot be easily classified or identified. It refers to something that is ambiguous, not easily understood, or does not belong to a particular group or category.
  • fish out of water, a The idiom "fish out of water" is used to describe someone who feels uncomfortable, awkward, or out of place in a particular situation or environment. It implies a lack of familiarity or proficiency, highlighting a sense of being misplaced or not fitting in.
  • be like shooting fish in a barrel The idiom "be like shooting fish in a barrel" means that a task or action is extremely easy or effortless, often implying that it is almost unfair or cruel because the target or object is defenseless or vulnerable. It suggests that succeeding in the given situation requires minimal effort or skill.
  • better fish to fry The idiom "better fish to fry" means that there are more important or pressing things to deal with or attend to, often implying that the current matter or task being presented is not worth one's attention. It implies that there are more meaningful or worthwhile things to focus on, rather than wasting time on something trivial or unimportant.
  • fish up out of
  • fish out of
  • make fish of one and flesh of another
  • cry stinking fish
  • fish-kiss
  • ge·fil·te fish Gefilte fish is a traditional Jewish dish made from ground fish, typically whitefish or carp, mixed with vegetables, seasonings, and matzo meal, formed into patties or balls, and poached in a broth.
  • fish eye Fish eye is an idiom commonly used to describe a suspicious or mistrustful look or gaze. It can also refer to a wide-angle lens that creates a distorted image similar to the appearance of a fish's eye.
  • fish-eating grin A self-satisfied or mischievous smile that is reminiscent of a predator after catching its prey, as if the person is feeling smug or pleased with themselves.
  • the cat would eat fish, but would not wet her feet This idiom refers to someone who is willing to take the easy route or benefit from something without putting in any effort or taking any risks. It suggests that the person is only willing to do things that are convenient or comfortable for them.
  • fish-hook A fish-hook is a metal hook with a sharp point and barb used for catching fish. In idiomatic usage, a fish-hook can refer to a situation or process that is tricky or deceptive, similar to the way a fish is lured and caught by a hook. It can also refer to a sharp or pointed remark that is meant to provoke a reaction.
  • What's that got to do with the price of fish? This idiom is a rhetorical question used to express confusion or disbelief about the relevance of something being discussed. It suggests that the topic being mentioned is completely unrelated or insignificant to the current conversation or situation.
  • fish-fight A dispute or argument between people that is noisy, chaotic, and possibly aggressive or violent.
  • fish flour
  • gefüllte fish

Similar spelling words for FISH

Plural form of FISH is FISH OR FISHES

Conjugate verb Fish

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have fished
you would have fished
he/she/it would have fished
we would have fished
they would have fished
I would have fish
you would have fish
he/she/it would have fish
we would have fish
they would have fish

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been fishing
you would have been fishing
he/she/it would have been fishing
we would have been fishing
they would have been fishing

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would fish
you would fish
he/she/it would fish
we would fish
they would fish

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be fishing
you would be fishing
he/she/it would be fishing
we would be fishing
they would be fishing

FUTURE

I will fish
you will fish
he/she/it will fish
we will fish
they will fish

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be fishing
you will be fishing
he/she/it will be fishing
we will be fishing
they will be fishing

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have fished
you will have fished
he/she/it will have fished
we will have fished
they will have fished

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been fishing
you will have been fishing
he/she/it will have been fishing
we will have been fishing
they will have been fishing

IMPERATIVE

you fish
we let´s fish

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to fish

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was fishing
you were fishing
he/she/it was fishing
we were fishing
they were fishing

PAST PARTICIPLE

fished

PAST PERFECT

I had fished
you had fished
he/she/it had fished
we had fished
they had fished

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been fishing
you had been fishing
he/she/it had been fishing
we had been fishing
they had been fishing

PRESENT

I fish
you fish
he/she/it fishes
we fish
they fish

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am fishing
you are fishing
he/she/it is fishing
we are fishing
they are fishing

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

fishing

PRESENT PERFECT

I have fished
you have fished
he/she/it has fished
we have fished
they have fished

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been fishing
you have been fishing
he/she/it has been fishing
we have been fishing
they have been fishing

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it fish

SIMPLE PAST

I fished
you fished
he/she/it fished
we fished
they fished

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Correct spelling for fish
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