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adverb or adjective

Definition of en route, examples of en route in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'en route.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1779, in the meaning defined above

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“En route.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/en%20route. Accessed 3 Jun. 2024.

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‘In Route’ or ‘En Route’: Unraveling the Correct Usage

Marcus Froland

March 28, 2024

So, you’re tapping away on your keyboard, crafting a message to a friend about your travels. You want to sound sophisticated and worldly. But then, you pause. Is it ‘in route’ or ‘en route’ ? This small hiccup throws you into a spiral of doubt. It’s not just about spelling; it’s about sending the right message.

Suddenly, what seemed like a simple phrase becomes a crossroad of communication. Each option points down a different path, but only one leads to the destination of clarity and confidence in your writing. And here we are, standing at this junction together, ready to shed light on this common dilemma.

The phrases ‘In Route’ and ‘En Route’ often cause confusion, but they have different meanings and uses. ‘En Route’ is the correct term, borrowed from French, meaning “on the way” or “along the way.” It’s used when someone or something is currently moving towards a destination. For example, “We are en route to the airport.”

On the other hand, ‘In Route’ is a common mistake and not widely accepted in formal writing or speech. It’s likely a mix-up with ‘en route’ or other similar expressions like “in transit.” To avoid errors, remember that ‘en route’ is the right choice when you want to say you’re on your way somewhere.

Introduction to the Common Conundrum in Phrases

Language is a complex tapestry, and borrowing words and phrases from other languages is not uncommon. The phrase “en route” is a prime example of this, demonstrating how pronunciation errors and language missteps can lead to frequent spelling mistakes, such as “in route” or “on route.” Misconceptions with these French phrases in English often stem from pronunciation issues and the influence of similar phrases in the English language that use “in” (like “in progress”) or “on” (like “on schedule”).

Phrases like “en route” highlight the phrase confusion that can arise when languages borrow from one another. In English, pronunciation tends to differ from the original French, which can result in various misinterpretations and incorrect spellings. The issues go beyond French phrases, and language learners may face similar pronunciation errors when dealing with words from other languages too.

“Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going.” – Rita Mae Brown

To overcome such issues, it is essential to dive deeper into the origins, context, and pronunciation of foreign phrases and words integrated into the English language. Understanding the correct usage and pronunciation of phrases like “en route” can significantly enhance clarity in communication, both written and spoken.

• Identify phrases that originate from other languages.
• Research the meaning, context, and pronunciation of these phrases.
• Practice correct pronunciation and usage.
• Always be mindful of the common misconceptions and errors.

In summary, borrowed phrases are an integral part of the English language. Yet, they present challenges in pronunciation and usage, leading to widespread confusion and incorrect spellings. To minimize such errors and maintain clear communication, it is crucial to understand these phrases’ origins, context, and pronunciation.

Understanding ‘En Route’: The Journey of a French Phrase

The process of language borrowing and linguistic evolution has gifted the English language with countless phrases of French origin . Among them is the term “en route,” which entered the English lexicon in the eighteenth century. In this section, we delve into the origins of “en route,” unravel the pronunciation challenges that lead to misspoken phrases , and explore how practical usage can help bring clarity to communication.

The Origin and Meaning of ‘En Route’

First incorporated into English around 1779, the phrase “en route” can be traced back to the French involvement in the American Revolution. As an adverb, “en route” signifies not only geographical proximity but also the status of transit, effectively meaning “on the way.” However, the journey of this borrowed phrase into English has not been without its challenges.

Pronunciation Pitfalls: Why ‘En Route’ Gets Misheard

One of the main reasons “en route” is often misspoken or misspelled comes down to the French pronunciation of the nasal vowel. This is not a typical sound in English, as the closest phonetic equivalents might be the nasality found in words like “honk” or “don.” In practice, many English speakers pronounce “en route” as on root , whereas, technically, the French pronunciation involves a more nasalized vowel. This discrepancy contributes to alternative spellings, such as “on route,” appearing in written English.

Contextual Examples: Using ‘En Route’ in Sentences

When used in everyday conversation, “en route” is a versatile adverb that can describe actions or stationary moments during travel. To ensure optimal clarity in communication, the term can be paired with prepositions like “from” and “to” in order to provide a greater sense of direction. Here are some example sentences :

• After boarding the train, she was finally en route to her dream vacation destination.
• The delivery truck is en route from the warehouse, so your package should arrive soon.
• Despite the en route delays, they managed to make it to the concert just in time.

By familiarizing yourself with the origin, pronunciation, and practical usage of “en route,” you can prevent misunderstandings and enrich your communication. Moreover, a deeper appreciation of the linguistic evolution of phrases such as “en route” enables you to engage with the diverse history of the English language.

Why ‘In Route’ Is a Common Misconception

Linguistic misunderstandings abound in our daily communications, and the phrase “in route” is one example of a common writing error. Though “en route” is the correct term, it’s easy to see why many often make the mistake of writing “in route.” The French preposition “en” translates to “in” in English, causing some confusion in travel terminology .

Language is an ever-evolving tapestry , and as phrases transition from one language to another, alterations and misunderstandings can occur. However, it’s essential to recognize that these changes don’t justify the use of incorrect forms like “in route.” In this case, adhering to the original French term, “en route,” ensures the accurate conveyance of the intended meaning.

“In route” might be an easy slip of the pen or keyboard, but it is not a recognized standard of the phrase, and its usage could lead to confusion in travel-related situations.

To help avoid making these common writing errors , keep the following points in mind:

• Remember that “en route” is the correct phrase, with “en” carrying its original French meaning, translating into “on the way” or “along the route.”
• Consistently reinforce proper pronunciation when speaking, focusing on the appropriate use of “en” rather than “in.”
• When in doubt, consult a reputable dictionary or other language reference resources to verify proper usage.

By actively paying attention to our language habits and understanding the origins of phrases like “en route,” we can minimize linguistic misunderstandings and communicate more effectively and accurately with others.

The History of ‘En Route’ in American English

Throughout its history, the English language has absorbed numerous words and expressions from other languages, significantly from French. Some of these borrowed terms have retained their French spellings, while others have been anglicized. The phrase “en route” is a perfect example of language borrowing and the strong French influence on American English.

The Francophile’s Influence: French Terms in English

Many English words owe their origin to French, thanks to substantial historical and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Often referred to as the Francophile’s legacy , this cultural exchange has resulted in the adoption of several French terms into the English language. The presence of French terms exemplifies the richness and diversity of American English and its capability to evolve over time through language adoption .

English has a long history of borrowing words from French, enriching its own lexicon in the process. The term “en route” is just one of many examples of how French words have become an integral part of American English.

The Eighteenth Century to Today: Tracking the Usage of ‘En Route’

Having been a part of the American English language since the mid-eighteenth century, the usage of “en route” has grown significantly over time. Its historical usage can be traced back to military contexts, especially related to troop movement during wartime. Through the course of history, the phrase has evolved and become a commonplace term, enjoyed by both professionals and casual speakers alike.

• Initially found in military documents, correspondence, and reports
• Gradually adopted into everyday speech, expanding its usage beyond military contexts
• Maintained its French spelling, despite the anglicization of other words in the English language

“En route” is a shining example of the diverse influences found within the American English language. By understanding the historical context and tracing the evolution of this phrase, we can appreciate its importance in shaping not only the lexicon but also our understanding of communication, language development, and cultural exchange .

Clarity in Context: How ‘En Route’ Functions in Language

Understanding the function of “en route” in language is key to ensuring contextual clarity and successful communication. As an adverb, it serves an essential role in describing the status of travel and movement in various contexts. Whether you’re catching a flight, planning a road trip, or describing your commute, the phrase “en route” adds precision and clarity to your expressions.

Here are some ways “en route” contributes to language function in the context of travel:

• Adverbial use – Providing information on the progress or stage of a journey, “en route” functions as an adverb. Examples include: “I am en route to the airport” or “The package is en route to your address.”
• Adjacency pairs – When used in combination with prepositions like “from” and “to,” “en route” facilitates clear communication about starting and ending points of a journey, thus avoiding ambiguity. For instance, “He is en route from New York to Los Angeles.”
• Adjectival purposes – In certain situations, “en route” can function adjectivally, describing aspects or challenges faced during travel. An example: “They encountered en route traffic delays.”

Armed with these insights into how “en route” functions in language, you can now confidently navigate conversations and writing tasks related to travel, ensuring optimal clarity and adherence to correct language conventions.

Mistaken Alternatives: ‘On Route’ and Other Misuses

Occasionally, editorial errors and media misspellings in written communication allow for the appearance of incorrect variants of the term “en route” such as “on route”, despite its perception as an error in the language community. Interestingly, these mistakes tend to happen even though “en route” has a relatively easy phonetic adaptation from French to English.

Misspellings in Modern Media: A Closer Look

Even in edited texts, mistakes like “on route” pop up and serve as a testament to the challenges in maintaining correct grammar across various platforms. Such errors can lead to confusion and hamper effective communication . Ultimately, ensuring proper usage of “en route” will improve the quality and clarity of written content in any context.

‘En Route’ vs. ‘On Route’: Dissecting the Differences

While “en route” maintains its status as the legitimate term, “on route” is often mistakenly used due to the phonetic similarity in pronunciation. Although it may seem like a minor difference, misusing these terms can lead to misunderstandings, especially in the travel context . To maintain adherence to standard language conventions, it’s crucial to be mindful of the differences.

To ensure language precision and effective expression , always choose “en route” over incorrect alternatives like “on route”.

Remembering to use the proper term “en route” – as opposed to “on route” – will contribute to richer and more accurate linguistic expression. By valuing language comparison and cultivating awareness of the history and meaning of the phrase, you can help foster clearer and more effective communication , both personally and professionally.

Conclusion: Embracing the Correct Use of ‘En Route’

As you journey through the world of language and communication, it is crucial to strive for language precision and effective expression . Mastering the correct usage of the phrase “en route” and setting aside incorrect alternatives like “in route” or “on route” can contribute significantly to the clarity of your message.

By understanding the phrase’s origin, meaning, and pronunciation, you will be better equipped to utilize “en route” appropriately. This will not only enrich your linguistic expression but also enhance the accuracy of your communication. Remember that “en route” has French roots, signifies being “on the way,” and should be pronounced accurately to prevent misspellings.

So, embrace the correct use of “en route” and continue expanding your vocabulary. This will help you maintain an authentic and informed approach to language, leaving a positive impression on your listeners and readers alike.

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[ ahn root , en ; French ah n root ]

The plane crashed en route from Cairo to Athens.

/ ɑ̃ rut; ɒn ˈruːt /

• on or along the way; on the road

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Word history and origins.

Origin of en route 1

Idioms and Phrases

Example sentences.

They won’t immunize a significant part of the population for months, but just knowing they’re en route prompts companies to start planning for an upturn.

Did the airline file a flight plan that took account of the weather en route from Surabaya, Indonesia, to Singapore?

Two hostages died en route to the hospital, while police said they killed gunman Man Haron Monis.

One hostage died en route, the Journal reported, while the other died on the operating table.

The small base was a way station for U.S. troops en route to the Korengal.

It took home the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance en route to four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.

He would give them money to return to their lines and for petty expenses en route.

At last, rather tired by my long day, made my way back, stopping at Birdie's dugout en route.

And an escort of State Troopers were en route to take him over to the real clink at the county seat.

He reached Springfield in safety and there joined a wagon train en route for Rolla, guarded by a detachment of fifty cavalry.

He did not know where he was going, but expected to pick up information on that question en route.

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

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Definition of en route adverb from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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Find out which words work together and produce more natural-sounding English with the Oxford Collocations Dictionary app. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

En Route or In Route – Which is Correct?

Home » En Route or In Route – Which is Correct?

When languages borrow from each other, they play fast and loose with spelling rules.

Sometimes, the borrowed word or phrase will be altered so that it matches spelling norms of the new language. Other times, it is left as is, with little or no change.

Given this inconsistency, is en route or in route the correct version of this French term? The results may not be surprising, but they are still interesting.

What is the Difference Between En Route and In Route?

In this post, I will compare en route vs. i n route . I will use each of these terms in at least one example sentence, so you can see how they look in context. Plus, I will show you a helpful memory tool that will allow you to choose in route or en route correctly every time.

When to Use En Route

Merriam-Webster first recorded its use in English in 1779, probably coinciding with French military aid in the American Revolution.

For example,

• “Units are en route to the scene,” said the dispatcher over the radio.
• “We have three supply vessels en route to the war zone,” said the ambassador.
• Prominent Venezuelan opposition leader Henrique Capriles said Thursday he was barred from leaving the country after authorities seized his passport while en route to the United Nations to denounce rights abuses by President Nicolás Maduro’s government. – The Wall Street Journal

Today, en route simply means on the way in basically any context. People might say they are en route to a party when asked if they have left yet.

En route functions as an adverb in sentences , where it describes proximity or location.

When spoken aloud, en route is pronounced identically to on root , although the latter has an entirely separate meaning.

Also, the correct spelling of this term is always en route . A spelling without a space enroute occasionally pops up here and there, but it is a widely rejected spelling that you should avoid.

As you can see from the above graph, which charts enroute vs. en route over time, the correct spelling is clearly en route.

When to Use In Route

Nonetheless, in route is not considered a standard variant of this phrase. As you can see from the graph below, this time charting in route vs. en route, English writers have strongly preferred en route since at least the year 1800, which is nearly the entire time since en route was introduced into the language.

This chart isn’t exhaustive in its scope, since it only looks at books published in English since 1800. Still, it grants insight into a long-term usage trend.

Trick to Remember the Difference

You should always use en route . In route seems like it should make sense, but it is a nonstandard variant and has never seen widespread use.

Since en route comes from French, remember that en is a French word and in is not. This trick will allow you to remember the correct version of this phrase.

Is it en route or in route? En route is a phrase that English imported from French in the 18th century. It means on the way .

• En route is the correct spelling.
• In route is a misspelling of en route.

In Route or En Route?

When it comes to expressing that someone or something is on the way, the phrases “in route” and “en route” often come into play. However, there is a common misconception about which phrase is correct, or whether they can be used interchangeably. Understanding the origins and usage of these phrases can help avoid confusion and ensure effective communication.

Table of Contents

Origins and Definitions

The phrase “en route” is borrowed directly from French, in which “en” means “on” and “route” means “road” or “way.” Hence, “en route” translates to “on the way.” The English language has embraced many such loanwords and phrases from other languages, retaining their original spelling and meaning.

“In route,” however, is often used mistakenly for “en route.” The confusion likely arises from the English preposition “in,” which might seem to logically precede “route,” creating a phrase that seemingly indicates being on a route. Yet, “in route” is not recognized as a standard phrase in English for expressing that something is underway.

Correct Usage: En Route

“En route” is the correct phrase to use when you want to say that someone or something is along the way to a destination. It is an adverbial phrase and can be used in various contexts, from casual conversations to formal writing.

• The ambulance is en route to the scene of the accident.
• We are currently en route to Paris and should arrive by 8 PM.
• The package you ordered is en route and will be delivered shortly.

Misconception and Incorrect Usage: In Route

The misuse of “in route” might occur due to the similarity in pronunciation between “in” and “en,” especially in fast speech. However, it is considered incorrect and should be avoided in writing and formal speech.

Incorrect Examples:

• The flight is in route to the destination. (Correct: The flight is en route to the destination.)
• The delivery truck is in route to your house. (Correct: The delivery truck is en route to your house.)
• The guests are in route to the hotel. (Correct: The guests are en route to the hotel.)

Why the Distinction Matters

Communication clarity is the primary reason why distinguishing “en route” from “in route” is important. Using the correct phrase ensures that the message is understood as intended, without the distraction of linguistic errors. In professional and academic settings, such precision is especially critical as it reflects the writer’s or speaker’s attention to detail and command of language.

Overcoming the Misconception

The best way to overcome this common misconception is through education and practice. Be aware of the correct phrase and use it in your communications. Additionally, when proofreading, pay close attention to this phrase to ensure the correct version is used.

Tips for Remembering:

• Associate “en route” with other French phrases that are used in English, such as “à la carte” or “coup d’état,” to remind yourself of its French origins.
• Remember that “route” has the same root as “road,” so when you’re “en route,” you’re metaphorically or literally “on the road.”

Examples in Literature and Media

“En route” has been used in literature and media to convey movement and progression. Here are some examples that illustrate its correct usage:

• In Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises,” characters frequently find themselves “en route” to various European locales, embodying the post-war expatriate experience.
• In the film “Casablanca,” when discussing the transit of refugees, the phrase “en route” is used to describe their journey to freedom.

En Route in Different Contexts

“En route” can be adapted to various contexts and tenses, maintaining its meaning. Here’s how it can be used:

• Present Tense:  The CEO is en route to the conference.
• Past Tense:  The reinforcements were en route when the storm hit.
• Future Tense:  We will be en route to the venue at dawn.

Final Thoughts

In summary, “en route” is the correct and only acceptable phrase to denote that someone or something is on the way. The misconceived “in route” is a product of phonetic confusion and is not recognized as a standard English expression. By understanding the origins, proper usage, and context of “en route,” you can communicate more effectively and avoid common pitfalls that may undermine the professionalism and clarity of your writing or speech.

As with any language, English is prone to nuances and subtleties that can trip up even the most diligent of users. However, with a little bit of knowledge and a careful approach to language, it is possible to navigate these intricacies successfully. Whether you are a writer, a student, or a professional, remembering the distinction between “en route” and “in route” is a small but significant step towards impeccable communication. It showcases your grasp of English idiom and your respect for its rich tapestry of borrowed phrases. By choosing your words wisely, you not only convey your message but also your cultural literacy and attention to the finer points of language.

About Mr. Greg

Mr. Greg is an English teacher from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in Hong Kong. He has over 5 years teaching experience and recently completed his PGCE at the University of Essex Online. In 2013, he graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a BEng(Hons) in Computing, with a focus on social media.

Mr. Greg’s English Cloud was created in 2020 during the pandemic, aiming to provide students and parents with resources to help facilitate their learning at home.

Whatsapp: +85259609792

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Definition of 'en route'

en route in American English

En route in british english, examples of 'en route' in a sentence en route, trends of en route.

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en route adverb

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What does the adverb en route mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the adverb en route . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

Entry status

OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.

How common is the adverb en route ?

How is the adverb en route pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the adverb en route come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the adverb en route is in the late 1700s.

OED's earliest evidence for en route is from 1779, in the writing of J. Warner.

en route is a borrowing from French.

Etymons: French en route .

Nearby entries

• enrol | enroll, v. c1350–
• enroll, n. 1533–4
• enrolled | enrollled, adj. 1789–
• enrollee, n. 1934–
• enroller, n. 1631–
• enrolling, n. 1467–
• enrolment, n. 1535–
• enroot, v. 1490–
• enrough, v. a1631–
• enround, v. c1420–1616
• en route, adv. 1779–
• enruby, v. 1611
• ens, n. a1586–
• Ensa, n. 1939–
• ensacre, v. a1492
• ensad, v. 1634
• ensafe, v. 1652
• ensaffron, v. ?1614–
• ensaimada, n. 1867–
• ensained, adj. 1483–
• ensalve, v. c1485

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, entry history for en route, adv..

en route, adv. was first published in 1891; not yet revised.

en route, adv. was last modified in September 2023.

Revision of the OED is a long-term project. Entries in oed.com which have not been revised may include:

• corrections and revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations which have been added in subsequent print and online updates.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into en route, adv. in September 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1891)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

• View en route in OED Second Edition

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Factsheet for en route, adv., browse entry.

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Grammar 101: Enroute, En Route or On Route

Posted by Michael Kwan | Dec 4, 2015 | Freelance Life , Grammar & Idioms | 4

As you’ve likely noticed by now, English is hardly the most logical language on the planet. We are taught all sorts of rules in school about how to spell certain words or how we should construct our sentences, only to learn of countless exceptions to said rules. Part of this is because English is effectively a mish-mash of several languages, borrowing terms from French, Spanish, German and more. En route is one such example. Or is it enroute ? Doesn’t on route make more logical sense?

Parlez-Vous Francais?

Like so many English phrases and idioms, the best way to tackle this little conundrum is go to back to the source. Unsurprisingly, the term en route is borrowed from the French. It literally translates to mean “on the road,” which is extended to mean “on the way.” If you’re driving from the zoo to the park, but you’re stopping at the market along the way, you could say:

“I’m going to stop at the market en route to the park from the zoo.”

Conventional practice in English is to italicize terms that are borrowed from other languages, but since “en route” has been a part of the common English vernacular for so long, most people don’t bother with italicizing it anymore.

Traveling on Route 66

But is “en route” the only correct spelling? Yes and no. It depends on how loose you are with your English rules.

Another alternative you may encounter is on route . As mentioned, this makes a lot more logical sense, because you are literally on the route. Like the single word form, on route is slowly gaining in favor as well. Many of us may view this as an error, similar to “for all intensive purposes.” And in the strictest sense, it still is. At best, on route is nonstandard unless you’re talking about a specific road, like saying you’re driving on Route 66.

I Speak Fluent American?

At the same time, this could once again be a prime example of the difference between Canadian and American English . Canadian English maintains more of its British (and French) influence, whereas American English more readily drops this influence. That’s why Canadians are more likely to pronounce “foyer” as “foy-yay,” whereas Americans might call it a “foy-yur.”

So, what is the take-home lesson here? The traditional idiom is en route and purists will likely stick with that spelling. In more formal texts, en route is going to be more common. In more casual writing, however, many people may choose to write the term as enroute or on route instead. English is constantly evolving and these alternatives are gaining increased acceptance, particularly when you pay attention to the audience being addressed.

Do you prefer en route , enroute or on route ?

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About the author.

Michael Kwan

Professional freelance writer

Interesting. I actually think of en route and on route as being different even if they are not. With en route I pronounce the second word like “root,” whereas with on route I pronounce the second word like “rowt.” I think I use them with slightly different connotations.

And that could be a regional thing too. I pronounce it as “root” in both instances, but perfectly understand “rowt” to be the same word. Similar to how North Americans might pronounce “schedule” (sked-joo-uhl) compared to our British counterparts (shed-joo-uhl).

en route in outlook online mail client gets spell checked on the en

enroute does not get spell checked in outlook but as i type it here in the comment box, it does! (opposite)

there’s a spell check war going on behind the scenes.

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Meaning of en route in English

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• against the current
• circumduction
• cross-country
• direction of travel
• the right/wrong/other way around idiom
• with the current

en route | Intermediate English

Examples of en route, translations of en route.

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Word of the Day

two-wheeler

a vehicle with two wheels, usually a bicycle

Keeping up appearances (Talking about how things seem)

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