If you have ever caught yourself typing “amature” and wondered why your spellchecker flagged it, you are in good company. It is one of the most frequently misspelled words in the English language.
The verdict from English lexicographers is absolute: “Amateur” is the only correct spelling. “Amature” is a common spelling mistake and does not exist in standard English dictionaries.
This guide breaks down why this mistake happens so easily, explores the French etymology behind the word, and provides simple memory tricks so you never misspell it again.
Note: This guide expands upon the spelling rules discussed in the English Forward Amateur vs. Amature Thread.
1. Why Do People Misspell It as “Amature”?
The widespread misspelling comes down to a clash between English phonetics and French origin:
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Phonetic Pronunciation: In spoken English, “amateur” is often pronounced like “am-uh-chur” or “am-uh-tur.” Because the ending sounds like the word nature, picture, or furniture, writers naturally default to the ending “-ture.”
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Etymological Roots: English borrowed the word directly from Old French (amateur), which originally came from the Latin word amator (meaning “lover” or “one who does something for the love of it”).
Because English preserved the original French spelling ending in “-eur”, its written form doesn’t match its modern English pronunciation.
2. Meaning & Grammatical Usage of “Amateur”
The word amateur can function as both a noun and an adjective in standard English:
As a Noun
A person who engages in a pursuit, study, science, or sport as a pastime rather than as a profession.
Example: The photography contest is open to both amateurs and professionals.
Example: He is an amateur when it comes to web development.
As an Adjective
Describing something done by an amateur, or showing a lack of professional skill/finish.
Example: She won the national amateur tennis championship.
Example: The website layout looks a bit amateur; let’s hire a professional designer.
3. Quick Memory Tricks to Get It Right Every Time
If you ever hesitate while typing, use one of these simple memory checks:
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The French “-EUR” Rule: Remember that “amateur” ends with “-eur”, just like other French loanwords referring to roles or professions:
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Entrepreneur
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Connoisseur
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Chauffeur
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Amateur
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The “Love” Connection: “Amateur” comes from the Latin root am- (meaning love, as in amorous). An amateur does something for the love of it, not for money. Connect the “u” and “r” at the end to the phrase “u r doing it for love.”
Summary Comparison Table
| Word Form | Correctness | Status | Example |
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Amateur
|
✅ Correct |
Standard English Word |
He plays amateur golf.
|
|
Amature
|
❌ Incorrect |
Misspelling / Typo |
Incorrect form—do not use.
|
Related Cluster Guides & Next Steps
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Master Guide: Return to our main portal on Essential English Vocabulary, Relationship Terms & Personal Writing .
Have a Specific Spelling Debate?
Confused about another French loanword or tricky spelling rule? Ask the community on the original English Forward Amateur Spelling Thread to get insights from native English writers.
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