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“In tact” or “intact”: which is correct?

The short answer

The correct term is intact, which is a single word used as an adjective meaning undamaged or whole.

Spelling error

Why people get it wrong

The phrase in tact is a common misspelling due to phonetic similarity with the correct form intact. People often believe it to be two separate words because in and tact are both valid English words and could create a plausible phrase.

Examples with intact

  • The vase remained intact despite the earthquake.
  • All original documents were intact after the fire.
  • The castle has remained intact for centuries.

Quick check

The vase remained   despite the earthquake.

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