Commonly confused words explained

Commonly confused words explained by- Rixfarmgirl(86)

Commonly Confused Words Explained

Former The Grammar Garden, Instructor Rixfarmgirl (86)


As serious writers we must make sure we choose the correct words. Using the wrong word can mark you as an amateur. Here is a short list for you to copy, print, and store in your Writer's Notebook.

Accept--to receive something: I accept your nomination for President.
Except--to exclude something: Everyone come with me except Sheila.

Adapt--to adjust to something: I must adapt to the new rules.
Adept--skillful at something: He was adept in making stain glass windows.

Affect--a verb meaning to change or influence: Robert's remarks affected the outcome of the election.
Effect--a verb meaning to accomplish or a noun meaning result: The effect was stunning.

All ready--totally ready: The pie is all ready for you to pick up.
Already--action which is finished: I already vacuumed for you.

Allusion--an indirect reference: The allusion was to Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet.
Delusion--an mistake of judgment: Liquor made Max delusional.
Illusion--an error of vision: Magicians are ace illusionists.

Among--more than two involved: Sue, Bob, and I decided among ourselves to leave.
Between--two people involved: The secret was between you and I.

It's--means it is: It's time for dinner.
Its--shows ownership: My cat lost its felt mouse toy.

Lay--to set down: I lay the book upon the table.
Lie--to recline: I will lie on my bed to take a nap.

There---in that place: Set the sewing basket there on the sofa.
They're--They are: They're going to arrive in thirty minutes.
Their--Possessive; owning something: Their new car was red.

**SENTENCES beginning with "There".
Stylistically, "There" sentences tend to be flat and lacking in emphasis, so it is wise to avoid using them frequently.

(From Encarta ® World English Dictionary © & (P) 1998-2005 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.)