An undeniable fact is that the English language could get confusing at some point or the other. There are numerous words that are spelled similarly yet have different meanings, some words are pronounced the same way, however, mean something completely different. These results in many of us often make a mistake, not only once but time and again. Therefore, it is crucial for us to get our head around these explanations, as getting familiarized to these words can prevent you from making errors once you recognize them along with their meanings.

Let's take a look at 10 of the most common mistakes made by individuals globally:

Error 1:

Accept v/s Except

Accept (verb) - To agree to take something.

Example- It is important for all of us to accept good advice.

Except (preposition/ conjunction) - To not include.

Example- Everyone was invited except Joanne.

Error 2:

Adverse v/s Averse

Adverse (adjective) – To be acting in opposition.

Example- She had an adverse reaction to the medication.

Averse (adjective) – To be opposed to.

Example- John is averse to taking critical risks.

Error 3:

Bought v/s Brought

Bought (past tense to the verb 'buy') – To buy something.

Example- He bought himself the motorcycle of his dreams.

Brought (past tense of the verb 'bring') – To bring something.

Example- Daniel brought his new girlfriend to the party.

Error 4:

Can v/s May

Can (verb) – To be able.

Example- Jacob can play the guitar well.

May (verb) – To be permitted.

Example- May we go to a movie today, mom?

Error 5:

Compliment v/s Complement

Compliment (noun) – A remark that expresses admiration/ respect.

Example- Ronda got the best compliment for her flawless style.

Complement (verb) – To make something more attractive when combined.

Example- I love the way Richard and Sue complement each other's personality.

Error 6:

Dairy v/s Diary

Dairy (adjective) – Anything made out of milk.

Example- Dairy products are my favorite!

Diary (noun) - A written record of one's personal experiences.

Example- Megan has been maintaining her secret diary for ages now.

Error 7:

Each v/s Every

Each (determiners, which means words that are used with singular nouns to indicate quantity) - Refers to an individual as one.

Example- Each and every one dressed their best for my wedding.

Every (determiners, which means words that are used with singular nouns to indicate quantity) - Refers to a group lumped together as one.

Example- Always remember that every drop counts.

Error 8:

Beside v/s Besides

Beside (preposition) – At the side of/ next to.

Example- My house is located right beside her house .

Besides (adverb/ preposition) – In addition to/ also.

Example- Besides two dresses, Jin also carried a pair of denims.

Error 9:

Affect v/s Effect

Affect (verb) – To influence/ change something or someone.

Example- Don't bring her here, the chaos will affect her illness.

Effect (verb) – To have an impact on something or someone.

Example- The effect of smoke is extremely hazardous to health.

Error 10:

Loose v/s Lose

Loose (adjective) – Something that is not fixed properly.

Example- The wire of my phone's charger is loose.

Lose (verb) – To no longer possess something.

Example- With today's recession, anyone could lose their job.

English is a language full of twists and turns, however, you could get a holistic understanding of the same by enrolling in an English speaking course online. Doing so will not only improve your English communication skills but also bring about an improvement in your English grammar understanding.

About EAgeTutor:

eAgeTutor.com is a premier online English learning institute. eAge's world class faculty and ace communication experts, from around the globe, help you to improve in an all-round manner. Assignments and tasks based on a well-researched content developed by subject matter and industry experts can certainly fetch the most desired results for improving spoken English skills. In this age of effective and advance communication technology, online spoken English programs are the most effective and convenient way to learn English.

For further information on our online English speaking courses or to experience the wonders of the virtual classroom, fix a demonstration session with our tutor.

- By Monika Agarwal

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