Separate vs. Seperate: Correct Spelling and Usage

Separate vs. Seperate

Words can be tricky. Two words that look almost the same are “separate” and “seperate.” But only one is right. Let’s learn about them.

History

The word “separate” came from Latin. It has “separatus,” which means “to divide.” The other word, “seperate,” is not correct. It is just a common mistake.

How to Use Them

We use “separate” when we talk about something being apart or divided. Because “seperate” is a mistake, we never use it in writing.

Trick to Remember the Difference

One way to remember is to think about the word “par.” “Separate” has “par” in the middle. If you can say “par,” you can spell “separate” right.

Examples

Correct Usage (Separate)

• Please separate the blue shoes from the red ones.
• We need to separate the eggs into two bowls.
• They will separate the paper by color.
• The teacher asked us to separate into small groups.
• She felt separate from the group.

Incorrect Usage (Seperate)

• Wrong: Please seperate the blue shoes from the red ones.
• Wrong: We need to seperate the eggs into two bowls.
• Wrong: They will seperate the paper by color.
• Wrong: The teacher asked us to seperate into small groups.
• Wrong: She felt seperate from the group.

Summary

Always use “separate” when you want to talk about things being apart. “Seperate” is not a real word. Use the trick with “par” to spell “separate” the right way. Remember this, and you will do well!