100 Most Misspelled Words in English
Spelling can be tricky. English is full of words that look one way, sound another, and break the “rules” we thought we knew. Even strong readers and writers stumble on certain words. Teachers see it. Parents see it. And if we’re honest, even adults sometimes type a word, pause, and double-check Google to be sure it’s right.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 100 most misspelled words. These are words that consistently trip up kids in grades 2–5, and even beyond. You’ll see homophones, contractions, words with sneaky silent letters, and those that just don’t “play fair.”
Why These Words Matter
Students who can master these commonly misspelled words build a strong foundation in both reading and writing. These words pop up all the time—whether in journals, essays, or classroom assignments. Learning them helps kids write fluently and confidently without constantly second-guessing themselves.
The Science of Reading reminds us that spelling and reading go hand in hand. Every time a child practices tricky words, they strengthen the pathways in their brain for decoding and encoding text.
Stop the guessing game….
When parents and teachers see the same roadmap, everything changes for the child in between.
100 Most Misspelled Words
Here’s the complete list. Download the 10 spelling lists to use in your classroom or as bonus practice.
too
a lot
because
there
their
that’s
they
it’s
when
favourite
went
Christmas
were
our
they’re
said
know
you’re
friend
friends
really
finally
where
again
then
didn’t
people
until
with
different
outside
we’re
through
upon
probably
don’t
sometimes
off
everybody
hear
always
I
something
would
want
and
Halloween
house
once
to
like
whole
another
believe
I’m
thought
let’s
before
beautiful
everything
very
into
caught
one
Easter
what
there’s
little
doesn’t
usually
clothes
scared
everyone
have
swimming
about
first
happened
Mum
especially
school
getting
started
was
which
stopped
two
Dad
took
friend’s
presents
are
morning
could
around
buy
maybe
family
pretty
tried
Lists 1 and 2
Lists 3 and 4
Lists 5 and 6
Lists 7 and 8
Lists 9 and 10
Tips for Teaching Tricky Spelling Words
- Use word sorts. Group words by patterns (contractions, homophones, silent letters).
- Practice with games. Word searches, crosswords, and spelling bingo make it fun.
- Encourage repetition. Daily writing journals are perfect for sneaking in extra practice.
- Use visuals. Anchor charts, posters, and word walls help reinforce the “look” of the word.
- Focus on high-utility words first. Students need the ones they’ll use every day.
Editable Spelling Worksheets for Any Word List
I’ve created a set of editable spelling worksheets that can be used with these 100 words—or any word list your students are working on. Instead of trying to find worksheets that match, you can type in your own list and print activities instantly. Perfect for centers, homework, or small group interventions.
This makes it easy to target the words your students struggle with most, whether that’s because and friend or seasonal words like Halloween and Christmas.
Spelling will always feel like a challenge for some kids, but with the right tools and plenty of practice, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
These 100 words are a great place to start, and you’ll be amazed at how much progress your students make when they focus on them consistently.
