"Hinderance": when extra letters get in the way

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 26/11/2024, 08:51

English.me team member

What kind of error is it?

Hinderance or hindrance. What's correct?

Spelling error resulting from incorrect formation of the noun from the verb "hinder".

Why do people make this mistake?

People often mistakenly form the noun by adding the suffix "-ance" directly to the verb "hinder", creating "hinderance". However, in English, some nouns derived from verbs drop a letter or alter the root before adding the suffix.

What is correct?

"Hindrance" is the correct spelling of the noun meaning an obstacle or something that impedes.

Examples of correct usage

The roadblock was a major hindrance to my commute.
Lack of funding is a hindrance to the project's success.
Her inability to focus was a hindrance to completing her tasks efficiently.