How Do You Spell SEMI?
Pronunciation: [sˈɛmi] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "semi" is [sˈɛmi], [sˈɛmi], [s_ˈɛ_m_i] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Pronunciation: [sˈɛmi] (IPA)
Correct spelling for the English word "semi" is [sˈɛmi], [sˈɛmi], [s_ˈɛ_m_i] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Semi is a prefix commonly used in English vocabulary that has origins in Latin. The term semi comes from the Latin word "semis," meaning half. As a prefix, semi- denotes partial, incomplete, or halfway. It is used to modify words to indicate that something is not entirely or completely in a particular state or condition.
In a literal sense, semi often suggests half of something. For example, in terms of quantity or measurement, semi can indicate a quantity or dimension that is exactly or approximately half of a particular unit or standard. For instance, a semicircle refers to a half of a circle, while a semitone represents a half step in music.
Beyond its numerical implications, semi is also used metaphorically. It implies that the modified word has some characteristics or qualities of the original word, but to a lesser extent. For instance, something described as semi-transparent is partially see-through, allowing light to pass through but not providing complete clarity. Similarly, a semi-skilled worker possesses some skills but may not be fully proficient or specialized in a particular area.
Overall, the term semi, as a prefix, indicates a level of incompleteness or partiality. It suggests that the modified word possesses certain aspects or attributes of the original term, but not to the full extent.
A prefix denoting one-half or partly; used with words derived from Latin roots; the corresponding Greek prefix is hemi.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A common prefix, signifying half; half of; in part; partially; the compounds of semi are for the most part easily understood, if the meaning of the latter part is known; a hyphen is usually placed after semi.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "semi" comes from the Latin prefix "semi-", which means "half" or "partially". It was borrowed into English through the Old French word "semi-", meaning "half" or "partial".
