‘Input’ or ‘Imput’: Which is Correct?

Are you curious about whether 'input' or 'imput' is correct? I can help!

Here is the short answer in case you are in a hurry: 

• 'Input' is the correct spelling of the noun and verb for information put in or putting in data.
• 'Imput' is a frequently used misspelling and mispronunciation. 

As mentioned above, 'imput' is a frequently used misspelling. Learning more about the term will help you remember the correct spelling. So, read this entire guide!

Which is Correct, 'Input' or 'Imput?'

There is no question, 'input' is correct. However, many people accidentally pronounce and spell the term 'imput.'

However, you should never use the second spelling as it is incorrect.

There are numerous English words like this that writers often misspell. Take a look at the list below with the correct spellings on the left and commonly used misspellings on the right.

• Achievement - Acheivment
• Argument - Arguement
• Commit - Comit, Committ
• Calendar - Calender
• Knowledge - Knowlege
• Pronunciation - Pronounciation
• Receive - Recieve
• Recommend - Recomend
• Scissors - Sissors
• Weird - Wierd

There are also some words that you spell differently in U.S. English vs. British English, like:

• Favorite - Favourite
• Color - Colour
• Recognize - Recognise
• Traveled - Travelled
• Favor - Favour
• Neighbor - Neighbour
• Analyze - Analyse
• Modeled - Modelled
• Marvelous - Marvellous

However, that is not the case with 'input' and 'imput.' 'Imput' is always incorrect.

Why is 'Input' Correct?

Im is a prefix that means no or not, and the definition of 'input' is not 'no or not put.' Words that contain the im prefix include:

• Impound
• Important
• Impede
• Imprint

However, 'input' is a compound word made up of the words in and put. When creating compound words, some spellings do change.

Definition of 'Input': What Does 'Input' Mean?

Let's take a closer look at the definition of 'input.' According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the definition of 'input' is a noun that means:

• Something like an opinion, advice, or a comment that is put in or added
• Energy or power that is put into a system or machine for storage or conversion of characteristics with the intent of recovery in the form of output
• An amount put in
• A stimulus that is integrated or acts on a bodily system
• Raw materials, labor, land, or a component of production
• The means or point at which input is made
• The process or act of putting in information, comments, data, etc.

'Input' can also be a verb that means:

• To enter or put data into a computer or system

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Input'

As a speech writer or public presenter, it is pretty clear why pronunciation is important. People will not know what you are saying if you do not say the words correctly.

• Furthermore, incorrectly pronouncing words can negatively impact your credibility.

However, learning proper pronunciation is also beneficial even if you're not working in those capacities. As a writer, knowing how to pronounce popular terms like 'input' can help you remember their meanings and spellings.

So, here is a pronunciation guide you can reference: 

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'input':

in-put

Writing Tips: When and How to Use 'Input'

Here are a few tips to help you determine when and how to use 'input' when you are writing.

• Use 'input' to ask someone to share information.

For example, you can say:

Sandy, will you add your input on the case study? We could really use your insight on the topic. 

• Use 'input' to reference information added by someone.

So, I might say:

You didn't need to give input on the situation. You should have let her form her own opinion on the matter. 

• Use 'input' as a verb to say that someone is putting information into a system.

As an example, you can say:

It is vital to input data in the company CRM as soon as you receive it. Otherwise, you may forget important information. 

 Sample Sentences Using 'Input'

Now, read these sample sentences. They will help you remember the correct spelling and learn additional ways to use the term.

Input

• I am asking you to refrain from sharing your input.
• Today, we will hear helpful input from the author of a best-selling book. Please pay close attention to the recommendations they make.
• We are unsure about the accuracy of the input we received. However, as soon as the information is verified, we will notify you.
• I can't wait for Friday. I have been inputting data all week, and it has been mind-numbing.
• Do you have any input that might help freelance writers successfully pitch topics to magazines?
• Will you input the information you collected before 5 pm today?
• Will you elaborate on how your input relates to the subject we are discussing?
• I am not sure that your input on the investigation is relevant or helpful.
• Please reserve your input until the presentation is complete.
• If you would like to input anything about your experiences during high school, your opportunity is now!
• My ninety-year-old grandmother gives input on everything, whether you want it or not!
• Good morning. I do not pretend to know everything. However, I do believe that my input on this topic would be beneficial.

Final Look at Whether 'Input' or 'Imput' is Correct

Finally, here is a last look at what you learned about whether 'input' or 'imput' is correct:

• 'Input' is the correct spelling of the English noun and verb defined as information put in or the inputting of data.
• 'Imput' is a common misspelling of 'input,' which you should refrain from using.

Many words confuse writers, whether they are experienced or just starting a career in writing. Luckily, you can learn about many of these words here.

You can also learn about other topics relating to freelance writing, like how to pitch to publications, the latest industry best practices, how to write a book or speech outline, and others.

If you want to improve your writing skills and learn how to market yourself as a freelance writer, take a look at the other helpful guides here before you leave, and come back frequently to stay up-to-date on industry changes.

Related posts:

'Nosey' or 'Nosy': Which is Correct? 'Combatting' or 'Combating': Which is Correct? 'Other Then' or 'Other Than': Which is Correct? ‘Dying’ or ‘Dieing’: Which is Correct? 'Memorium’ or ‘Memoriam’: Which is Correct Grammar? ‘Walked Passed’ or ‘Walked Past’: Which is Correct? ‘Orientated’ or ‘Oriented’: Which is Correct? ‘The Summer’ or ‘In the Summer’: Which is Correct? ‘Goodmorning’ or ‘Good Morning’: Which is Correct? ‘Forest’ or ‘Forrest’: Which is Correct?