Vocabulary

It is pretty easy to confuse purposely and purposefully. Both are standard English words with similar origins. Both words are adverbs, and they have comparable definitions. Never fear: we will elucidate how to use each word correctly. Differentiating Purposely and Purposefully The definition of purposely… continue reading

Even though they sound the same and are only differentiated by one tiny letter, forego and forgo have entirely different definitions: forego means “go before.” forgo means “go without.” Despite this, many people use these words in place of each other. Many dictionaries even indicate… continue reading

What is the difference between the words abstruse and obtuse?  Abstruse Well, both are adjectives (words that describe nouns). The first word, abstruse, derives from a Latin word meaning “hidden, concealed, secret.” In the English language, it simply means “difficult to understand.” Here are a few examples:  Because I… continue reading

Merriam-Webster raised the tempers of pompous grammarians last week when it affirmed the linguistic authenticity of “irregardless.” The definition of the word, when reading it, seems to be: without without regard. “The word Irregardless is included in our dictionary because it’s been in widespread and… continue reading

Have you ever debated whether to use hanged vs. hung in a sentence? Were you writing about an execution? The word hanged  refers to a person’s death at the end of a rope. That is its sole correct usage. If no one is dead, then you… continue reading

There is perhaps no more commonly used Latinate term in modern society than alumni and its variants. Unless you are incredibly well-versed in the dead language of the Romans. Masculine and Feminine, Singular and Plural Here is a topline explanation with this group of Latin… continue reading

Considering how similarly immigrate and emigrate sound, it is understandable for people to wonder if they are alternate spellings of the same word. “Emigrate” Definition Firstly, emigrate does not mean the same thing as immigrate. Emigrate has a specific definition: to depart one place – for… continue reading

Bi- is a prefix that means twice or two; semi- is a prefix meaning half. Do you receive a paycheck on the fifteenth and thirtieth of each month? Would you say you are paid bi-monthly or semimonthly?If a magazine is published every two weeks, it is a biweekly… continue reading

The English language contains many homophones that can be confusing for both native and non-native speakers. While speakers typically move right past homophones, many writers are left unsure of which word to use. One example of a confusing set of homophones is “passed” and “past.”… continue reading

Remember this: The word “complement” is related to the word “completion.” Meanwhile, the word “compliment” refers to flattering acts or words.  Everyone loves a compliment. Or is it a complement everybody loves? In any published list of commonly confused words, you’re sure to find these… continue reading