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Whether you’re just starting your language journey or already have some basics down, you’ve likely come across words that look or sound similar but have completely different meanings. Don’t worry, though – we’re here to clear up the confusion in a fun and simple way! By the end of this blog, you’ll feel more confident when choosing the right word in your conversations or writing. Ready? Let’s dive in!
English is a fascinating language, but it can also be tricky. Many words have similar spellings or pronunciations but entirely different meanings. This happens because:
As you study English, learning these differences will not only help you avoid mistakes but it’ll also make you sound more fluent.
Here are some pairs of words (and even a few triplets!) that are often misunderstood. Each comes with examples and explanations to help you remember them better.
This is a classic example of words that sound the same but have different uses:
Example: The book is over there.
Example: Their house is beautiful.
Example: They’re joining language classes in London.
Tip: If you’re unsure, try replacing the word with “they are.” If it works, the correct word is “they’re.”
These two are tricky because they look and sound similar, but they have different roles in a sentence:
Example: The weather can affect your mood.
Example: The new rules had a positive effect on the students.
Tip: Remember that affect is usually a verb, while effect is a noun.
Who doesn’t love food-related examples?
Example: Camels live in the desert.
Example: I’d love some chocolate cake for dessert.
Tip: Remember that dessert has two ‘s’s because you’ll always want more of it!
This is a British English-specific confusion:
Example: My English practice is helping me improve.
Example: I need to practise my pronunciation.
Tip: Use practice for things and practise for actions.
Even advanced learners can mix these up because they look almost identical:
Tip: Think of the ‘e’ in stationery as standing for “envelopes” or “erasers”!
These phrases look similar, but their meanings are different:
In British English, these words are often used interchangeably, but here’s the subtle difference:
Tip: Think of farther as related to how “far” something is physically.
These two words are pronounced almost the same but have different meanings:
Tip: A compliment is a kind word, while a complement completes or improves something.
These two are often mixed up because of their similar pronunciation:
Tip: Remember, the school principal is your “pal”!
The only difference here is the ‘e’ at the end, but the meanings are very different:
Tip: If it’s an action, use the version with the ‘e’ at the end: breathe.
Another homophone that causes confusion!
Tip: If it’s about rain or sunshine, it’s always weather!
Even native speakers confuse these, but here’s how to get them right:
Tip: If you can replace it with “who is” or “who has,” use who’s.
If you’re looking for a place to improve your English and master tricky topics like these, we’re here for you! At ES London, we offer a range of English classes in London to suit every level, from beginners to advanced learners. Our friendly teachers use creative methods to help you feel confident with grammar, vocabulary, and speaking skills. Plus, living and learning in London gives you real-life opportunities to practise what you learn!
Explore our language courses London or take one of our English courses in London today to become a pro at distinguishing words like these.
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