How Do You Spell SHORTHAND?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈɔːthand] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "shorthand" can be a little tricky to remember, as the way it is pronounced doesn't quite match up to the way it is spelled. The IPA phonetic transcription of shorthand is /ˈʃɔːthænd/. Notice how the "or" sound is replaced with an "aw" sound, and the "and" sound is replaced with an "end" sound. This is because English often has irregular spellings that don't match the sounds made by the letters. But with practice, anyone can master the spelling of this useful word.

SHORTHAND Meaning and Definition

1. Shorthand refers to a method of writing or transcription that employs a system of abbreviated symbols or characters to represent words or phrases. It is a technique used to quickly and efficiently record spoken language or written text. The primary purpose of shorthand is to increase the speed of writing or transcribing by condensing long words or phrases into shorter, more manageable forms.

   Shorthand systems can vary significantly in terms of structure and symbols used, but they generally aim to capture the essence of a word or phrase in simplified form. These symbols or characters may be based on phonetic representations, abbreviated forms, or graphical representations of entire words or phrases. Common examples of shorthand systems include Gregg shorthand, Pitman shorthand, and Teeline shorthand.

   Historically, shorthand was widely used by journalists, secretaries, court reporters, and other professionals who needed to transcribe information rapidly. Today, with the advent of digital technology, the use of shorthand has diminished, as quick typing and recording devices have become more prevalent. However, shorthand still finds some application in certain industries, such as courtrooms, where real-time transcription is essential.

   Overall, shorthand is a valuable tool for those seeking to write or transcribe quickly and efficiently. Its main goal is to reduce the amount of time required to capture spoken or written information, making it a vital skill for professionals working in fast-paced and time-sensitive environments.

2. A rapid system of writing by means of coutractions and simple characters.

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

Common Misspellings for SHORTHAND

• shorthonr
• thouthand
• shortand
• shortsand
• shirtand
• shorthad
• shorhand
• shorthan
• Shorhan
• shortdend
• shortandy
• shorehand
• Shortranje
• scorthand
• shortunnd

Etymology of SHORTHAND

The term "shorthand" can be traced back to the combination of two different words: "short" and "hand". "Short" refers to something brief or concise, while "hand" pertains to writing or the act of using one's hand to write. The phrase "shorthand" originated in the mid-18th century to describe a system of rapid writing that allows the user to record spoken language in a quicker and more abbreviated manner. The use of shorthand was popularized as a means of taking down dictation or transcription during the time when pens and paper were the primary tools of writing.

Similar spelling words for SHORTHAND

• short-winded,
• shorthand-writer,
• shortened,
• shortness,
• shortening,
• sheraton,
• shortener,
• short ton,
• sheridan,
• shorten,
• shorthand-typist,
• short-handed.

Plural form of SHORTHAND is SHORTHANDS