{"id":48,"date":"2021-09-01T16:06:31","date_gmt":"2021-09-01T20:06:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/writingforsuccessh5p\/chapter\/commonly-confused-words\/"},"modified":"2021-12-20T18:41:33","modified_gmt":"2021-12-20T23:41:33","slug":"commonly-confused-words","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/writingforsuccessh5p\/chapter\/commonly-confused-words\/","title":{"raw":"2.1\u00a0Commonly Confused Words","rendered":"2.1\u00a0Commonly Confused Words"},"content":{"raw":"
\n

Learning Objectives<\/p>\n\n<\/header>\n

\n
    \n \t
  • Identify commonly confused words<\/li>\n \t
  • Use strategies to avoid commonly confused words<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n\nJust as a mason uses bricks to build sturdy homes, writers use words to build successful documents. Consider the construction of a building. Builders need to use tough, reliable materials to build a solid and structurally sound skyscraper. From the foundation to the roof and every floor in between, every part is necessary. Writers need to use strong, meaningful words from the first sentence to the last and in every sentence in between.\n\nYou already know many words that you use every day as part of your writing and speaking vocabulary. You probably also know that certain words fit better in certain situations. Letters, emails, and even quickly jotted grocery lists require the proper selection of vocabulary. Imagine you are writing a grocery list to purchase the ingredients for a recipe but accidentally write down cilantro when the recipe calls for parsley. Even though cilantro and parsley look remarkably alike, each produces a very different effect in food. This seemingly small error could radically alter the flavour of your dish!\n\nHaving a solid everyday vocabulary will help you while writing, but learning new words and avoiding common word errors will make a real impression on your readers. Experienced writers know that deliberate, careful word selection and usage can lead to more polished, more meaningful work. This chapter covers word choice and vocabulary-building strategies that will improve your writing.\n

    Commonly Confused Words<\/h1>\nSome words in English cause trouble for speakers and writers because they share a similar pronunciation, meaning, or spelling with another word. These words are called commonly confused words. For example, read aloud the following sentences containing the commonly confused words\u00a0new\u00a0and knew:\n
      \n \t
    • I liked her\u00a0new<\/span>\u00a0sweater.<\/li>\n \t
    • I\u00a0knew<\/span>\u00a0she would wear that sweater today.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThese words may sound alike when spoken, but they carry entirely different usages and meanings.\u00a0New\u00a0<\/em>is an adjective that describes the sweater, and\u00a0knew<\/em> is the past tense of the verb \"to know.\" To read more about adjectives, verbs, and other parts of speech see Section 3.1: Sentence Writing<\/b>.\n

      Recognizing Commonly Confused Words<\/h2>\nNew\u00a0and\u00a0knew\u00a0are just two of the words that can be confusing because of their similarities. Familiarize yourself with the following list of commonly confused words. Recognizing these words in your own writing and in other pieces of writing can help you choose the correct word to avoid confusing the reader and, ultimately, being incorrect in your writing.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
      Table 2.1 Examples of Commonly Confused Words<\/caption>\n
      Common Confused Words<\/th>\nWhat do they mean?<\/th>\nExamples<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
      A, An, And<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • A\u00a0(article). Used before a word that begins with a consonant.<\/li>\n \t
      • An\u00a0(article). Used before a word that begins with a vowel.<\/li>\n \t
      • And\u00a0(conjunction). Connects two or more words together.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • A key, a mouse, a screen.<\/li>\n \t
      • An airplane, an ocean, an igloo<\/li>\n \t
      • Peanut butter and jelly, pen and pencil, jump and shout<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Affect, Effect<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Affect (verb). Means to create a change.<\/li>\n \t
      • Effect\u00a0(noun). Means an outcome or result.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • Hurricane winds\u00a0affect\u00a0the amount of rainfall.<\/li>\n \t
      • The heavy rains will have an\u00a0effect\u00a0on the crop growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Are, Our<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Are\u00a0(verb). A conjugated form of the verb\u00a0to be.<\/li>\n \t
      • Our\u00a0(pronoun). Indicates possession, usually follows the pronoun\u00a0we.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • My cousins\u00a0are\u00a0all tall and blonde.<\/li>\n \t
      • We will bring\u00a0our\u00a0cameras to take pictures.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      By, Buy<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • By\u00a0(preposition). Means next to.<\/li>\n \t
      • Buy\u00a0(verb). Means to purchase.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • My glasses are\u00a0by\u00a0the bed.<\/li>\n \t
      • I will\u00a0buy\u00a0new glasses after the doctor\u2019s appointment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Its, It's<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Its\u00a0(pronoun). A form of\u00a0it\u00a0that shows possession.<\/li>\n \t
      • It\u2019s\u00a0(contraction). Joins the words\u00a0it\u00a0and\u00a0is.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • The butterfly flapped\u00a0its\u00a0wings.<\/li>\n \t
      • It\u2019s\u00a0the most beautiful butterfly I have ever seen.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Know, No<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Know\u00a0(verb). Means to understand or possess knowledge.<\/li>\n \t
      • No. Used to make a negative.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • I\u00a0know\u00a0the male peacock sports the brilliant feathers.<\/li>\n \t
      • I have\u00a0no\u00a0time to visit the zoo this weekend.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Loose, Lose<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Loose\u00a0(adjective). Describes something that is not tight or is detached.<\/li>\n \t
      • Lose (verb). Means to forget, to give up, to fail to earn something, or to fail to find something.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • Without a belt, their pants are loose on their waist.<\/li>\n \t
      • She is known to regularly lose her keys.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Of, Have<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Of (preposition). Means\u00a0from\u00a0or\u00a0about.<\/li>\n \t
      • Have (verb). Means to possess something.<\/li>\n \t
      • Have\u00a0(linking verb). Used to connect verbs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • I studied maps\u00a0of\u00a0the city to know where to rent a new apartment.<\/li>\n \t
      • I\u00a0have\u00a0many friends to help me move.<\/li>\n \t
      • I should have helped him with that heavy box.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Quite, Quiet, Quit<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Quite\u00a0(adverb). Means\u00a0really\u00a0or\u00a0truly.<\/li>\n \t
      • Quiet\u00a0(adjective). Means not loud.<\/li>\n \t
      • Quit\u00a0(verb). Means to stop or to end.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • My work will require\u00a0quite\u00a0a lot of concentration.<\/li>\n \t
      • I need a\u00a0quiet\u00a0room to complete the assignments.<\/li>\n \t
      • I will\u00a0quit\u00a0when I am hungry for dinner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Right, Write<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Right\u00a0(adjective). Means proper or correct.<\/li>\n \t
      • Right\u00a0(adjective). Also means the opposite of left.<\/li>\n \t
      • Write\u00a0(verb). Means to communicate on paper.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • When bowling, she practises the\u00a0right\u00a0form.<\/li>\n \t
      • The ball curved to the\u00a0right\u00a0and hit the last pin.<\/li>\n \t
      • After the team members bowl, I will\u00a0write\u00a0down their scores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Set, Sit<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Set\u00a0(verb). Means to put an item down.<\/li>\n \t
      • Set\u00a0(noun). Means a group of similar objects.<\/li>\n \t
      • Sit\u00a0(verb). Means to lower oneself down on a chair or another place.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • She\u00a0set\u00a0the mug on the saucer.<\/li>\n \t
      • All the mugs and saucers belonged in a\u00a0set.<\/li>\n \t
      • I\u2019ll\u00a0sit\u00a0on the sofa while she brews the tea.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Suppose, Supposed<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Suppose\u00a0(verb). Means to think or to consider.<\/li>\n \t
      • Suppose\u00a0(verb). Means to suggest.<\/li>\n \t
      • Supposed\u00a0(verb). The past tense form of the verb suppose, meaning required or allowed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • I\u00a0suppose\u00a0I will bake the bread, because no one else has the recipe.<\/li>\n \t
      • Suppose\u00a0we all split the cost of the dinner.<\/li>\n \t
      • She was\u00a0supposed\u00a0to create the menu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Than, Then<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Than\u00a0(conjunction). Used to connect two or more items when comparing.<\/li>\n \t
      • Then\u00a0(adverb). Means next or at a specific time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • Registered nurses require less schooling\u00a0than\u00a0doctors.<\/li>\n \t
      • Doctors first complete medical school and\u00a0then\u00a0obtain a residency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Their, They're, There<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Their\u00a0(pronoun). A form of\u00a0they\u00a0that shows possession.<\/li>\n \t
      • They\u2019re\u00a0(contraction). Joins the words\u00a0they\u00a0and\u00a0are.<\/li>\n \t
      • There\u00a0(pronoun). Indicates the presence of something<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • The dog walker feeds\u00a0their\u00a0dogs everyday at two o\u2019clock.<\/li>\n \t
      • They\u2019re\u00a0the sweetest dogs in the neighbourhood.<\/li>\n \t
      • There\u00a0are more treats if the dogs behave.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      To, Two, Too<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • To\u00a0(preposition). Indicates movement.<\/li>\n \t
      • To. A word that completes an infinitive verb.<\/li>\n \t
      • Two. The number after one. It describes how many.<\/li>\n \t
      • Too\u00a0(adverb). Means\u00a0also\u00a0or\u00a0very.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • Let\u2019s go\u00a0to\u00a0the circus.<\/li>\n \t
      • to\u00a0play,\u00a0to\u00a0ride,\u00a0to\u00a0watch.<\/li>\n \t
      • Two\u00a0clowns squirted the elephants with water.<\/li>\n \t
      • The tents were\u00a0too\u00a0loud, and we left.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Use, Used<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Use\u00a0(verb). Means to apply for some purpose.<\/li>\n \t
      • Used. The past tense form of the verb\u00a0to use<\/li>\n \t
      • Used to. Indicates something done in the past but not in the present<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • We\u00a0use\u00a0a weed whacker to trim the hedges.<\/li>\n \t
      • He\u00a0used\u00a0the lawnmower last night before it rained.<\/li>\n \t
      • He\u00a0used to\u00a0hire a team to landscape, but now he landscapes alone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Who's, Whose<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Who\u2019s (contraction). Joins the words who and either is or has.<\/li>\n \t
      • Whose\u00a0(pronoun). A form of\u00a0who\u00a0that shows possession.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • Who\u2019s the new student? Who\u2019s met him?<\/li>\n \t
      • Whose\u00a0schedule allows them to take the new student on a campus tour?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Your, You're<\/td>\n\n
        \n \t
      • Your (pronoun). A form of you that shows possession.<\/li>\n \t
      • You\u2019re\u00a0(contraction). Joins the words\u00a0you\u00a0and\u00a0are.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
      		\n
        \n \t
      • Your\u00a0book bag is unzipped.<\/li>\n \t
      • You\u2019re\u00a0the girl with the unzipped book bag.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n
        \n\nThe English language contains so many words; no one can say for certain how many words exist. In fact, many words in English are borrowed from other languages. Many words have multiple meanings and forms, further expanding the immeasurable number of English words. Although the list of commonly confused words serves as a helpful guide, even these words may have more meanings than shown here. When in doubt, consult an expert: the dictionary!\n
        \n

        Self-Practice Exercise 2.1<\/p>\n\n<\/header>\n

        \n\n[h5p id=\"10\"]\n
        \n\nH5P: <\/strong>Complete the following sentences by selecting the correct word.\n
          \n \t
        1. My little cousin turns (to, too, two) years old tomorrow.<\/li>\n \t
        2. The next-door neighbour\u2019s dog is (quite, quiet, quit) loud. He barks constantly throughout the night.<\/li>\n \t
        3. (Your, You\u2019re) mother called this morning to talk about the party.<\/li>\n \t
        4. I would rather eat a slice of chocolate cake (than, then) eat a chocolate muffin.<\/li>\n \t
        5. Before the meeting, he drank a cup of coffee and (than, then) brushed his teeth.<\/li>\n \t
        6. Do you have any (loose, lose) change to pay the parking meter?<\/li>\n \t
        7. Father must (have, of) left his briefcase at the office.<\/li>\n \t
        8. Before playing ice hockey, I was (suppose, supposed) to read the contract, but I only skimmed it and signed my name quickly, which may (affect, effect) my understanding of the rules.<\/li>\n \t
        9. Tonight she will (set, sit) down and (right, write) a cover letter to accompany her resum\u00e9 and job application.<\/li>\n \t
        10. It must be fall, because the leaves (are, our) changing, and (it\u2019s, its) getting darker earlier.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\nAnswer Key<\/strong>\n
            \n \t
          1. two<\/li>\n \t
          2. quite<\/li>\n \t
          3. Your<\/li>\n \t
          4. than<\/li>\n \t
          5. then<\/li>\n \t
          6. loose<\/li>\n \t
          7. have<\/li>\n \t
          8. supposed, affect<\/li>\n \t
          9. sit, write<\/li>\n \t
          10. are, it's<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

            Strategies to Avoid Commonly Confused Words<\/h2>\nWhen writing, you need to choose the correct word according to its spelling and meaning in the context. Not only does selecting the correct word improve your vocabulary and your writing, but it also makes a good impression on your readers. It also helps reduce confusion and improve clarity. The following strategies can help you avoid misusing confusing words.\n\nUse a dictionary.\u00a0Keep a dictionary at your desk while you write. Look up words when you are uncertain of their meanings or spellings. Many dictionaries are also available online, and the Internet\u2019s easy access will not slow you down. Check out your cell phone or smartphone to see if a dictionary app is available.\n\nKeep a list of words you commonly confuse.\u00a0Be aware of the words that often confuse you. When you notice a pattern of confusing words, keep a list nearby, and consult the list as you write. Check the list again before you submit an assignment to your instructor.\n\nStudy the list of commonly confused words.\u00a0You may not yet know which words confuse you, but before you sit down to write, study the words on the list. Prepare your mind for working with words by reviewing the commonly confused words identified in this chapter.\n
            Tip: Commonly confused words appear in many locations, not just at work or at school. Be on the lookout for misused words wherever you find yourself throughout the day. Make a mental note of the error and remember its correction for your own pieces of writing.<\/div>\n\"An\n
            \n

            Writing at Work<\/p>\n\n<\/header>\n

            \n\nAll employers value effective communication. From an application to an interview to the first month on the job, employers pay attention to your vocabulary. You do not need a large vocabulary to succeed, but you do need to be able to express yourself clearly and avoid commonly misused words.\n\nWhen giving an important presentation on the effect of inflation on profit margins, you must know the difference between\u00a0effect\u00a0and\u00a0affect\u00a0and choose the correct word. When writing an email to confirm deliveries, you must know if the shipment will arrive in\u00a0to\u00a0days,\u00a0too\u00a0days, or\u00a0two\u00a0days. Confusion may arise if you choose the wrong word.\n\nConsistently using the proper words will improve your communication and make a positive impression on your boss and colleagues.\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
            \n

            Self-Practice Exercise 2.2<\/p>\n\n<\/header>\n

            \n\n[h5p id=\"11\"]\n
            \n\nH5P: <\/strong>In the paragraph below, locate all of the misused words and correct them. There are 11 errors in total. You can refer to the list of frequently misused words in this chapter for help as you work.\n
            The original United States Declaration of Independence sets in a case at the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom as part of the National Archives in Washington, DC. Since 1952, over one million visitors each year of passed through the Rotunda too snap a photograph to capture they're experience. Although signs state, \"No Flash Photography,\" forgetful tourists leave the flash on, an a bright light flickers for just a millisecond. This millisecond of light may not seem like enough to effect the precious document, but supposed how much light could be generated when all those milliseconds are added up. According to the National Archives administrators, its enough to significantly damage the historic document. So, now, the signs display quit a different message: \"No Photography.\" Visitors continue to travel to see the Declaration that began are country, but know longer can personal pictures serve as mementos. The administrators\u2019 compromise, they say, is a visit to the gift shop for a preprinted photograph.<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
            \n

            Key Takeaways<\/p>\n\n<\/header>\n

            \n
              \n \t
            • In order to write accurately, it is important for writers to be aware of commonly confused words.<\/li>\n \t
            • Although commonly confused words may look alike or sound alike, their meanings are very different.<\/li>\n \t
            • Consulting the dictionary is one way to make sure you are using the correct word in your writing. You may also keep a list of commonly confused words nearby when you write, or study the chart in this section.<\/li>\n \t
            • Choosing the proper words leaves a positive impression on your readers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
              \n

              Writing Application<\/p>\n\n<\/header>\n

              \n\nReview the latest assignment you completed for school or for work. Does it contain any commonly confused words? Circle each example and use the circled words to begin your own checklist of commonly confused words. Continue to add to your checklist each time you complete an assignment and find a misused word.\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","rendered":"
              \n
              \n

              Learning Objectives<\/p>\n<\/header>\n

              \n
                \n
              • Identify commonly confused words<\/li>\n
              • Use strategies to avoid commonly confused words<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
                \n

                Just as a mason uses bricks to build sturdy homes, writers use words to build successful documents. Consider the construction of a building. Builders need to use tough, reliable materials to build a solid and structurally sound skyscraper. From the foundation to the roof and every floor in between, every part is necessary. Writers need to use strong, meaningful words from the first sentence to the last and in every sentence in between.<\/p>\n

                You already know many words that you use every day as part of your writing and speaking vocabulary. You probably also know that certain words fit better in certain situations. Letters, emails, and even quickly jotted grocery lists require the proper selection of vocabulary. Imagine you are writing a grocery list to purchase the ingredients for a recipe but accidentally write down cilantro when the recipe calls for parsley. Even though cilantro and parsley look remarkably alike, each produces a very different effect in food. This seemingly small error could radically alter the flavour of your dish!<\/p>\n

                Having a solid everyday vocabulary will help you while writing, but learning new words and avoiding common word errors will make a real impression on your readers. Experienced writers know that deliberate, careful word selection and usage can lead to more polished, more meaningful work. This chapter covers word choice and vocabulary-building strategies that will improve your writing.<\/p>\n

                Commonly Confused Words<\/h1>\n

                Some words in English cause trouble for speakers and writers because they share a similar pronunciation, meaning, or spelling with another word. These words are called commonly confused words. For example, read aloud the following sentences containing the commonly confused words\u00a0new\u00a0and knew:<\/p>\n

                  \n
                • I liked her\u00a0new<\/span>\u00a0sweater.<\/li>\n
                • I\u00a0knew<\/span>\u00a0she would wear that sweater today.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  These words may sound alike when spoken, but they carry entirely different usages and meanings.\u00a0New\u00a0<\/em>is an adjective that describes the sweater, and\u00a0knew<\/em> is the past tense of the verb “to know.” To read more about adjectives, verbs, and other parts of speech see Section 3.1: Sentence Writing<\/b>.<\/p>\n

                  Recognizing Commonly Confused Words<\/h2>\n

                  New\u00a0and\u00a0knew\u00a0are just two of the words that can be confusing because of their similarities. Familiarize yourself with the following list of commonly confused words. Recognizing these words in your own writing and in other pieces of writing can help you choose the correct word to avoid confusing the reader and, ultimately, being incorrect in your writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                  Table 2.1 Examples of Commonly Confused Words<\/caption>\n
                  Common Confused Words<\/th>\nWhat do they mean?<\/th>\nExamples<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
                  A, An, And<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • A\u00a0(article). Used before a word that begins with a consonant.<\/li>\n
                  • An\u00a0(article). Used before a word that begins with a vowel.<\/li>\n
                  • And\u00a0(conjunction). Connects two or more words together.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • A key, a mouse, a screen.<\/li>\n
                  • An airplane, an ocean, an igloo<\/li>\n
                  • Peanut butter and jelly, pen and pencil, jump and shout<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Affect, Effect<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Affect (verb). Means to create a change.<\/li>\n
                  • Effect\u00a0(noun). Means an outcome or result.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • Hurricane winds\u00a0affect\u00a0the amount of rainfall.<\/li>\n
                  • The heavy rains will have an\u00a0effect\u00a0on the crop growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Are, Our<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Are\u00a0(verb). A conjugated form of the verb\u00a0to be.<\/li>\n
                  • Our\u00a0(pronoun). Indicates possession, usually follows the pronoun\u00a0we.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • My cousins\u00a0are\u00a0all tall and blonde.<\/li>\n
                  • We will bring\u00a0our\u00a0cameras to take pictures.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  By, Buy<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • By\u00a0(preposition). Means next to.<\/li>\n
                  • Buy\u00a0(verb). Means to purchase.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • My glasses are\u00a0by\u00a0the bed.<\/li>\n
                  • I will\u00a0buy\u00a0new glasses after the doctor\u2019s appointment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Its, It’s<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Its\u00a0(pronoun). A form of\u00a0it\u00a0that shows possession.<\/li>\n
                  • It\u2019s\u00a0(contraction). Joins the words\u00a0it\u00a0and\u00a0is.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • The butterfly flapped\u00a0its\u00a0wings.<\/li>\n
                  • It\u2019s\u00a0the most beautiful butterfly I have ever seen.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Know, No<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Know\u00a0(verb). Means to understand or possess knowledge.<\/li>\n
                  • No. Used to make a negative.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • I\u00a0know\u00a0the male peacock sports the brilliant feathers.<\/li>\n
                  • I have\u00a0no\u00a0time to visit the zoo this weekend.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Loose, Lose<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Loose\u00a0(adjective). Describes something that is not tight or is detached.<\/li>\n
                  • Lose (verb). Means to forget, to give up, to fail to earn something, or to fail to find something.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • Without a belt, their pants are loose on their waist.<\/li>\n
                  • She is known to regularly lose her keys.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Of, Have<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Of (preposition). Means\u00a0from\u00a0or\u00a0about.<\/li>\n
                  • Have (verb). Means to possess something.<\/li>\n
                  • Have\u00a0(linking verb). Used to connect verbs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • I studied maps\u00a0of\u00a0the city to know where to rent a new apartment.<\/li>\n
                  • I\u00a0have\u00a0many friends to help me move.<\/li>\n
                  • I should have helped him with that heavy box.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Quite, Quiet, Quit<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Quite\u00a0(adverb). Means\u00a0really\u00a0or\u00a0truly.<\/li>\n
                  • Quiet\u00a0(adjective). Means not loud.<\/li>\n
                  • Quit\u00a0(verb). Means to stop or to end.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • My work will require\u00a0quite\u00a0a lot of concentration.<\/li>\n
                  • I need a\u00a0quiet\u00a0room to complete the assignments.<\/li>\n
                  • I will\u00a0quit\u00a0when I am hungry for dinner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Right, Write<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Right\u00a0(adjective). Means proper or correct.<\/li>\n
                  • Right\u00a0(adjective). Also means the opposite of left.<\/li>\n
                  • Write\u00a0(verb). Means to communicate on paper.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • When bowling, she practises the\u00a0right\u00a0form.<\/li>\n
                  • The ball curved to the\u00a0right\u00a0and hit the last pin.<\/li>\n
                  • After the team members bowl, I will\u00a0write\u00a0down their scores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Set, Sit<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Set\u00a0(verb). Means to put an item down.<\/li>\n
                  • Set\u00a0(noun). Means a group of similar objects.<\/li>\n
                  • Sit\u00a0(verb). Means to lower oneself down on a chair or another place.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • She\u00a0set\u00a0the mug on the saucer.<\/li>\n
                  • All the mugs and saucers belonged in a\u00a0set.<\/li>\n
                  • I\u2019ll\u00a0sit\u00a0on the sofa while she brews the tea.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Suppose, Supposed<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Suppose\u00a0(verb). Means to think or to consider.<\/li>\n
                  • Suppose\u00a0(verb). Means to suggest.<\/li>\n
                  • Supposed\u00a0(verb). The past tense form of the verb suppose, meaning required or allowed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • I\u00a0suppose\u00a0I will bake the bread, because no one else has the recipe.<\/li>\n
                  • Suppose\u00a0we all split the cost of the dinner.<\/li>\n
                  • She was\u00a0supposed\u00a0to create the menu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Than, Then<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Than\u00a0(conjunction). Used to connect two or more items when comparing.<\/li>\n
                  • Then\u00a0(adverb). Means next or at a specific time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • Registered nurses require less schooling\u00a0than\u00a0doctors.<\/li>\n
                  • Doctors first complete medical school and\u00a0then\u00a0obtain a residency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Their, They’re, There<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Their\u00a0(pronoun). A form of\u00a0they\u00a0that shows possession.<\/li>\n
                  • They\u2019re\u00a0(contraction). Joins the words\u00a0they\u00a0and\u00a0are.<\/li>\n
                  • There\u00a0(pronoun). Indicates the presence of something<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • The dog walker feeds\u00a0their\u00a0dogs everyday at two o\u2019clock.<\/li>\n
                  • They\u2019re\u00a0the sweetest dogs in the neighbourhood.<\/li>\n
                  • There\u00a0are more treats if the dogs behave.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  To, Two, Too<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • To\u00a0(preposition). Indicates movement.<\/li>\n
                  • To. A word that completes an infinitive verb.<\/li>\n
                  • Two. The number after one. It describes how many.<\/li>\n
                  • Too\u00a0(adverb). Means\u00a0also\u00a0or\u00a0very.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • Let\u2019s go\u00a0to\u00a0the circus.<\/li>\n
                  • to\u00a0play,\u00a0to\u00a0ride,\u00a0to\u00a0watch.<\/li>\n
                  • Two\u00a0clowns squirted the elephants with water.<\/li>\n
                  • The tents were\u00a0too\u00a0loud, and we left.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Use, Used<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Use\u00a0(verb). Means to apply for some purpose.<\/li>\n
                  • Used. The past tense form of the verb\u00a0to use<\/li>\n
                  • Used to. Indicates something done in the past but not in the present<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • We\u00a0use\u00a0a weed whacker to trim the hedges.<\/li>\n
                  • He\u00a0used\u00a0the lawnmower last night before it rained.<\/li>\n
                  • He\u00a0used to\u00a0hire a team to landscape, but now he landscapes alone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Who’s, Whose<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Who\u2019s (contraction). Joins the words who and either is or has.<\/li>\n
                  • Whose\u00a0(pronoun). A form of\u00a0who\u00a0that shows possession.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • Who\u2019s the new student? Who\u2019s met him?<\/li>\n
                  • Whose\u00a0schedule allows them to take the new student on a campus tour?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                  Your, You’re<\/td>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Your (pronoun). A form of you that shows possession.<\/li>\n
                  • You\u2019re\u00a0(contraction). Joins the words\u00a0you\u00a0and\u00a0are.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n
                  		\n
                    \n
                  • Your\u00a0book bag is unzipped.<\/li>\n
                  • You\u2019re\u00a0the girl with the unzipped book bag.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n
                    \n

                    The English language contains so many words; no one can say for certain how many words exist. In fact, many words in English are borrowed from other languages. Many words have multiple meanings and forms, further expanding the immeasurable number of English words. Although the list of commonly confused words serves as a helpful guide, even these words may have more meanings than shown here. When in doubt, consult an expert: the dictionary!<\/p>\n

                    \n
                    \n

                    Self-Practice Exercise 2.1<\/p>\n<\/header>\n

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