Question

When do we use the spelling "-dge" for the sound j?

a. At the beginning of a word.
b. At the end of a word.
c. In the middle of a word.
d. Only in proper nouns.

Answer 1

The spelling "-dge" is used at the end of a word, usually after a short vowel, as seen in "bridge" or "badge." The correct option in the final answer is option b.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spelling "-dge" for the sound j is used at the end of a word and typically follows a short vowel.

For instance, in the word "bridge," the short vowel i is followed by dge. When there is a long vowel right in front of the sound j, j is spelled with a g (as in "rage").

However, when there is a short vowel right in front of the sound j, it is spelled dge (as in "badge"). The g spelling always follows with an e, i, or y as in the words "package" (which includes the letters ge following the g) or "energy." The spelling j typically comes at the front of a word, such as in "judge."

The combination dg does not occur at the beginning of English words. So, the correct option for when we use the spelling "-dge" is option b. At the end of a word.