Patrice Riley, Author at BusinessWritingBlog

Similar Words

Onsite vs. On-site

Every year, there are new words added to the English dictionary. These changes can be confusing. For example, two commonly confused words are onsite and on-site. Do you know the right way to use these words? Different dictionaries have different advice about how to use… continue reading

A graphic with the words suppose and supposed ti

Similar Words

Correct Use of Suppose and Supposed

Suppose and supposed are sometimes confused with each other. Supposed to means expected to. It is not correct to say suppose to. Suppose is a present tense verb that means to assume. Supposed To This phrase functions like a modal verb. Modal verbs add on to the main verb to show possibility, permission,… continue reading

A graphic of a figure holding an umbrella with the words "under the weather"

Common Expressions

The Meaning of “Under The Weather”

What is the meaning of being “Under the Weather?” The phrase means that someone feels sick or sad. For example: I am not going to work because I feel under the weather. Here are a few phrases with similar meanings: sick as a dog, in a… continue reading

graphic comparing the definitions of ramp up and amp up

Ramp up vs. Amp Up

Ramping up and amping up sound very similar. How much difference does the letter “r” make in these phrases? Similarities Both ramping up and amping up refer to something increasing. They also look and sound very nearly the same. Ramping up If you imagine a… continue reading

Grammar and Usage

Adjective “Fast” vs. Adverb “Quickly”

What is the difference between fast and quickly? Is quickly an adverb? An adjective? Fast and quickly are often used interchangeably. Is there any difference between them? Fast is an adjective and refers to speed. Quickly is an adverb that refers to time. For example: That horse is very fast. The… continue reading

A graphic with a man standing in an apologetic stance with the words "apology or apologies?"

My Sincerest Apologies vs. Apology

We’re here to help you apologize correctly. The terms “my sincerest apologies” and “my sincerest apology” are two common phrases. Which one is correct? Both my apology and my apologies are correct, but they function differently. My apology refers to a specific apology that you made or will make. My apologies expresses that… continue reading

A graphic with a computer and other desk items with a business proposal on the forefront

Perfecting a One-Page Business Proposal

Writing a proposal may seem daunting. They are essential to winning new business. There is pressure to create a persuasive pitch that summarizes the value of what you’re offering. The proposal should also show how you can resolve your client’s problems. And all of that… continue reading

Punctuation Pointers

Three Week’s Time or Three Weeks Time?

Do you know which is correct: I will finish in three weeks’ time or in three weeks time? In one day’s time or in one days time? ANSWER: It is correct to say three weeks’ time and one day’s time. In order to answer this… continue reading

title graphic stating "details are present... or details are presented...?"

Use of “Present” and “Presented” in Technical Reports Writing

When reading a technical report, you may come across the phrase “Details are present in Table 2.” Sometimes, it will be written “Details are presented in Table 2.” Which one do you think is correct? The confusion comes because “present” can be a noun, verb,… continue reading

A picture of three cactus plants with the words "Cactuses or Cacti?"

Is It Cactuses or Cacti?

When you see two spiky succulents, are they “cacti” or “cactuses”? Let’s look into it! Cactuses or Cacti? In Latin, cacti is the correct plural form of cactus. And this is also popular for English speakers. However, cactuses is actually the correct English plural. Many dictionaries will list both as… continue reading