Kindergarden vs Kindergarten

Commonly Misspelled Words - Exercises and Quiz

This exercise focuses on commonly misspelled words

The Correct Word: Kindergarten

The correct spelling is kindergarten. It comes from the German language, meaning "children's garden." In English, kindergarten refers to a class or school for young children, usually between the ages of 4 and 6, where they start learning basic skills before entering primary school.

Why People Say "Kindergarden"

The word kindergarden is a common mistake because of how it sounds. When you hear people say "kindergarten," it can sound like "kindergarden," leading some people to use the wrong spelling. The word garden is familiar in English, so many assume this is part of the word.

Common Errors and Tips to Remember

• Tip 1: Think of the word as coming from German. It combines "kinder" (children) and "garten" (garden), not "garden."

• Tip 2: Remember that in English, kindergarten is always spelled with -ten, not -den.

Everyday Use of "Kindergarten"

• Correct: My daughter is starting kindergarten next week.

• Incorrect: My son goes to kindergarden in the mornings.

FAQ

Is "kindergarden" a word?

No, "kindergarden" is a misspelling. The correct word is "kindergarten."

Why do people confuse "kindergarten" and "kindergarden"?

People confuse them because the pronunciation can sound like "garden," and "garden" is a familiar word in English.

What does "kindergarten" mean?

"Kindergarten" refers to a class or school for young children, typically the first formal education they receive.

How can I remember the correct spelling?

Think of the word’s German roots: "kinder" (children) and "garten" (garden), and remember that it ends in -ten not -den.

Is "kindergarten" used worldwide?

Yes, many countries use the word "kindergarten," though some countries have different terms for early childhood education.