How Do You Spell BEHOVES?

Pronunciation: [bɪhˈə͡ʊvz] (IPA)

The word "behoves" is spelled with "-hoves" instead of "-hooves," despite referring to the hooves of animals. This spelling can be explained by its origins in Middle English, where "behoven" meant "to be necessary." This word eventually evolved into "behoove" in modern English, and "behoves" is the third person singular form. The spelling "-hoves" represents the original pronunciation of the word, which involved a "v" sound instead of a "f" sound in the final position. The IPA transcription for "behoves" is /bɪˈhʊvz/.

BEHOVES Meaning and Definition

1. The term "behoves" is a variant spelling of "behooves," which is primarily used in British English. It is a verb that is derived from the archaic term "behove" and is generally considered to be a formal or literary expression. The word is commonly used in the third person singular form ("it behooves") and is typically followed by an infinitive verb or a noun phrase.

   The central meaning of "behoves" is to be necessary, appropriate, or fitting for someone to do something. It implies a strong moral or social obligation or responsibility. When a situation or set of circumstances requires a particular action or behavior, it is said to "behoove" someone to undertake it. This verb carries a sense of duty or propriety, urging individuals to act in a manner dictated by their obligations.

   For instance, one might say, "It behooves each citizen to vote in an election," meaning that it is a necessary or expected duty for citizens to exercise their right to vote. Similarly, "It behooves managers to provide supportive feedback to their employees" indicates that it is in the best interest of managers to offer constructive feedback to their staff.

   In summary, "behoves" conveys the notion of a moral or social duty, emphasizing the appropriateness or necessity of certain actions or behaviors. It is a term that underscores the importance of fulfilling one's obligations or duties in accordance with societal norms.

Etymology of BEHOVES

The word "behoves" originated from the Old English word "behofian" which meant "to be necessary" or "to be fitting". This Old English term came from the root words "be-" meaning "by" or "about", and "hofian" meaning "to have need of" or "to be allotted". Over time, the spelling of the word evolved, and it eventually became "behoves" in Modern English. The verb form "behoves" is used to express the necessity or appropriateness of something.

Idioms with the word BEHOVES

• it behoves somebody to do something This idiom means that it is necessary, proper, or expected for someone to do something or it is their duty or responsibility to do so.