Explore this spelling list: ie and ei words: rulebreakers. These words are tailored to support your spelling journey. Choose between games, tests, and downloadable activities to learn in a way that suits you.
Have you ever noticed some ie and ei words don’t follow the i before e except after c rule? English can be tricky this way, with some words breaking the rule entirely. This list includes examples like ancient, efficient, and weird, all of which don’t follow the usual pattern but are still common words in everyday use.
Learning rulebreakers is an important for improving your spelling. Why not try a spelling game to help you study? It’s a fun way to test your skills and reinforce your memory of these tricky words.
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ancient |
Greece has many ancient ruins.
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efficient |
He was an efficient worker.
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sufficient |
Do you have sufficient money for a bus ride home?
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conscience |
My conscience is completely clear.
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protein |
A balanced diet should contain protein.
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seize |
Did you see him seize my purse?
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weird |
I heard a very weird noise in the night.
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foreign |
We love foreign travel.
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sovereign |
A reigning king or queen is a sovereign.
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forfeit |
He will forfeit his chance of promotion.
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counterfeit |
They found counterfeit money at his home.
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height |
He was at the height of his popularity.
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either |
You can have either of these two cakes.
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neither |
Neither of my friends could come out to play.
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leisure |
I enjoy a balance of work and leisure time.
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science |
David hopes to excel in his science exam.
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Learn more about these words in the Spellzone Main Course: Unit 21. The 'I' before 'e' rule – does it work?
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Practice handwriting and spelling with interactive exercises.
This word list was created by Spellzone. View more Spellzone course lists or curriculum word lists.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for our students! I'm sure Spellzone will be invaluable in helping them to improve their spellings and therefore improve the quality of their writing in all subject areas!"
Teacher, High School, UK