Every so often, the word ‘complement’ is confused with ‘compliment.’ This blog entry is intended to clear up the confusion. Compliment – (noun) praise; (verb) to praise someone For example: “I complimented him on his choice of stationery.” Complement – (noun) completing; (verb) to complete For example: “The sauce complements the main course.” Now, try […]
Category: Tips/ ESL
Principle or Principal? Commonly Confused Words
Some words are often confused. Let’s clarify their meanings. Today’s pair is principle and principal. Principal is most often used as an adjective, while principle is solely a noun. A principle is a fundamental truth or a rule, such as in science and nature. The aforementioned noun is also used for morally right attitudes […]
Breath or Breathe?
Once in a while, the word ‘breath’ is confused with ‘breathe.’ Well, there’s no need to worry, as the confusion will be cleared in this blog entry. Please take a look at the following sentences: In order to survive, people need to breathe. Deep breaths are supposed to be soothing. Based on the example sentences, […]
All Together or Altogether?
Occasionally, the word ‘altogether’ is muddled up with ‘all together.’ This blog entry is intended to clear up the confusion. All together – all gathered together in one place. For example: “We spent Christmas all together at the family cottage.” Altogether – an adverb that means entirely; completely; in total. For example: “Altogether, I enjoyed […]
Affect or Effect? Commonly Confused Words
Some words are often confused. Let’s clarify their meanings. Today’s pair is affect and effect. Actually, affect is mostly used as a verb that means to influence. For example: The pandemic has negatively affected many people. Effect, on the other hand, is mostly used as a noun that means a change, result or consequence. […]
