There is a class of words having the sound of long _e_, represented by
the diphthong _ie_, and another class having the same sound represented
by _ei_. It is a matter of perplexity at times to determine whether one
of these words should be spelled with _ie_ or _ei_. Here is a little
rhyme which you will find a valuable aid to the memory in spelling these
words:
When the letter _c_ you spy,
Put the _e_ before the _i_.
For example, in such words as _deceit_, _receive_ and _ceiling_, the
spelling is _ei_. On the other hand, when the diphthong is not preceded
by the letter _c_, the spelling is _ie_, as in _grief_, _field_,
_siege_, etc.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as _either_, _neither_,
_leisure_, _seize_ and _weird_. Most words, however, conform to the
rule--when preceded by _c_, _ei_ should be used; when preceded by any
other letter, _ie_.
Observe that this rule applies only when there is a diphthong having the
sound of long _e_. When the two letters do not have the sound of long
_e_, as in _ancient_, the rule does not apply.
+Monday+
Deceive
Belief
Conceive
Brief
Ceiling
+Tuesday+
Field
Receive
Piece
Chief
Leisure
+Wednesday+
Receipt
Wield
Weird
Thief
Perceive
+Thursday+
Deceit
Yield
Grief
Seize
Conceit
+Friday+
Relieve
Neither
Liege
Shield
Niece
+Saturday+
Relief
Achievement
Reprieve
Lien
Siege