Top 10 Misused/confused English words

CONFUSED OR MISUSED WORDS IN ENGLISH – PART I

Many words in English language, though similar in form and sound, are different in their meaning. Hence those words are susceptible to be misused. Careful attention is needed while using these words.  Some of the commonly misused or confused words are given below.

1.    ACCEPT and EXCEPT
ACCEPT - to agree, to receive with favor. 
Example: “I accept the invitation for the party”.
EXCEPT – to exclude, to leave
Example: All attended the meeting except Mr. Mohan.

2.    ADAPT and ADOPT
ADAPT - to adjust appropriately.
Example: Naveen got adapted to city life easily. 
ADOPT - to accept, to approve,
Example: The childless couple adopted a baby girl.

3.    ADVICE and ADVISE
ADVICE - ( Noun)
Example: “Thank you for your good advice”.
ADVISE - (verb)
Example: The Lawyer advised his client.

4.    AFFECT and EFFECT
AFFECT – to influence, to pretend
Example: Bad weather affected the match
EFFECT – to bring about, lead to, result in
Example: "You will know the effect of the drug by tomorrow."

5.    BARE and BEAR
BARE - naked, uncovered
Example:  Swami preferred walking barefoot.
BEAR -  to tolerate, to put up with
Example: It is difficult for cancer patients to bear the pain.

6.    BRAKE and BREAK
BRAKE - ( as in to put the brake )
Example: The drive applied the brakes late and so hit the cow.
BREAK – smash, shatter
Example: Break the glass in case of emergency

7.    COMPLEMENT and COMPLIMENT
COMPLEMENT  - makes up , to complete,
Example: We now have a full complement of children’s magazines.
COMPLIMENT - praise, comment admiringly
    Example: The Principal complemented the students’ efforts.

8.    CONFIRM and CONFORM
CONFIRM: make sure, approve, endorse
Example: John confirmed that the ticket was booked. 
CONFORM: adhere to, comply with,
Example: “You need to conform to the rules of the company”.

9.    DAIRY and DIARY
DAIRY: milk and milk products.
Example: Manu is allergic to dairy products.
DIARY: daily record usually personal and private.
 Example: Diary writing is a good habit.

10.    DUAL and DUEL
DUAL: double
Example: Dual SIM, Dual citizenship.
DUEL: fight

About the Author:

Babli Jose, a Master Degree Holder in English language, is a professional English teacher with more than 15 years of experience in reputed institutions in India and Abroad. Join Me On: Facebook, Twitter, Google