Potato or Potatoe?

The English language is a fertile ground for orthographic controversies, and the humble tuber has found itself at the heart of one such debate. The confusion between “potato” and “potatoe” may seem trivial, but it’s a telling example of how a simple error can sprout into a widespread misconception. This article aims to dig into the roots of this issue, providing clarity and examples to understand the correct usage of the word.

The Root of the Matter: “Potato” vs. “Potatoe”

To get straight to the core, “potato” is the correct spelling for the starchy tuber that is widely consumed as a vegetable. The confusion often arises when individuals mistakenly add an “e” at the end, creating the nonstandard variant “potatoe.”

The Correct Usage: “Potato”

• “She added sliced potatoes to the pot to boil.”
• “One of his favorite dishes is mashed potato.”
• “The farmer grew a variety of potatoes, including Russets and Yukon Golds.”

The Misconception

The misconception that “potatoe” is a correct alternative spelling likely stems from an understanding of English pluralization rules. In many cases, nouns ending in “o” form their plural by adding “es” (e.g., “tomatoes” or “heroes”). However, “potato” does not follow this rule in its singular form; the correct plural is “potatoes,” but the singular remains “potato.”

The infamous misspelling of “potato” as “potatoe” gained public attention during an event in 1992 when then-Vice President of the United States, Dan Quayle, corrected a student’s correct spelling of “potato” to “potatoe” at a school spelling bee. This incident, widely publicized and mocked, perhaps contributed to the misunderstanding of the word’s correct spelling.

Examples of Misconception:

• Incorrect: “Please pass me a potatoe from that basket.”
• Incorrect: “She decided to plant potatoe seeds in her garden.”

Why Does This Matter?

Understanding the correct spelling of “potato” is important for several reasons:

1. Credibility: Proper spelling is essential for maintaining the writer’s credibility.
2. Communication: Accurate spelling ensures the message is understood without distraction or misunderstanding.
3. Education: Correct usage sets a positive example for language learners who rely on written sources to guide their understanding.

Examples in Context:

• In a cookbook: “For this recipe, you will need four large potatoes.”
• In a school text: “The Irish Potato Famine was a period of mass starvation and disease.”

Tips for Remembering

Here are some strategies to help remember the correct spelling of “potato”:

• Recall the “Dan Quayle incident” as a mnemonic device to keep the spelling straight.
• Note that “potato” follows the same pattern as “photo” and “piano,” which do not add an “e” in their singular forms.
• Remember that adding an “e” is necessary only when making the word plural as in “potatoes.”

Conclusion

The word “potato” should always be spelled without an “e” at the end when referring to the singular form of the vegetable. The inclusion of an “e” is a clear error, not a matter of preference or variation. The plural form “potatoes” adheres to a general rule of English that does require the “es” at the end, but this rule does not apply to the singular spelling.

Understanding and using the correct spelling of “potato” is a small but significant part of effective communication. In writing, attention to detail reflects on the writer’s overall care and skill. By consistently applying the correct spelling, you contribute to clear communication and uphold the standards of the English language.