English.me

“Concieve” or “conceive”: which is correct?

The short answer

The correct spelling is conceive. Conceive means to form or devise a plan or idea in the mind, or, in another context, to become pregnant.

Why people get it wrong

The incorrect spelling concieve results from applying the I before E except after C rule, but this rule has many exceptions, and conceive is one of them.

What kind of mistake it is

It is a spelling error.

Examples with conceive

  • She was able to conceive the idea after several brainstorming sessions.
  • The architect conceived an innovative design for the new building.
  • After years of trying, they were finally able to conceive a child.

Quick check

She was able to   the idea after several brainstorming sessions.

Spotted a mistake in this article? Tell us