Spell check problems when sending emails

[Cocoa]

I use Outlook as part of the Office Pro Plus 2016 package.



When I compose an email, the spell checker does not work. If i click the "Spelling and Grammar" button from the Review Menu, I get the "Spell check is complete." dialog box immediately, without errors being noted, even though I have intentionally spelled words incorrectly . I have selected the "Always check spelling before sending" box in the Outlook Options-Mail-ABC menu, but emails are sent with spelling errors.

I have also de-selected the "Ignore original text in reply or forwarding" box in the Outlook Options-Mail-ABC menu. If I am replying, the spell checker will highlight spelling errors in the original email, but will not find errors in my reply portion.

I use a custom stationary that I created and a specific reply/forwarding signature. I have used them for years without any issues. This spell check problem started in approximately late 2019, I think.

Why is this happening and how can I fix it? Please help.