1.4.2

‘i' Before 'e' Except After 'c’: Exceptions

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‘i' Before 'e' Except After 'c’

The 'i' before 'e' except after 'c' rule helps us to decide whether to spell a word using 'ie' or 'ei'. There are some exceptions to this rule that you must know.

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Exceptions to the rule

  • The word 'science' uses the letter 'c', followed by 'ie'.
Illustrative background for More exceptionsIllustrative background for More exceptions ?? "content

More exceptions

  • Some words are spelled using 'ei', despite not following the letter 'c'.
    • seize
    • either
    • neither
    • caffeine
    • protein
    • eight

Jump to other topics

1Reading

1.1Reading

1.2Prefixes

1.3Suffixes

1.4Spelling Rules

1.5Reading Comprehension

1.6Reading Comprehension: SAT Practise

1.7Word Meaning

1.8Fact vs. Opinion

1.9Justifying Views

1.10Figurative Language

1.11Text Structure

2Writing

2.1Sounds in Words

2.2Homophones

2.3Using a Dictionary

2.4Writing Composition

2.5The Subjunctive Mood

2.6Modal Verbs

2.7Active & Passive Voice

2.8Relative Clauses

2.9Expanded Nouns

2.10Punctuation

2.11SAT Spelling Practise

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