Approximately vs. Approximatly: Spelling Mistake Explained
“Approximately” is the only correct spelling; “approximatly” is simply a typo. The extra “e” after the “t” is what trips most writers up.
We type fast, our thumbs slide over the keyboard, and the brain short-circuits after “approximat—.” The missing “e” looks harmless, so many skip it without noticing, especially in casual texts or notes.
Correct Spelling and Rules
Spell it “approximately.” The ending “-ately” follows the usual adverb pattern for adjectives ending in “-ate.”
Common Mistakes
Leaving out the “e” creates “approximatly,” a frequent misspelling in emails and social posts.
Why does the extra “e” matter?
Without it, spell-checkers flag the word as an error, breaking the flow of polished writing.
Can I shorten it instead?
Yes, informal writing often uses “approx.” or the symbol “~” to save space.