Wednesday, December 31, 2014

crowd, crowed

Crowd or crowd means a large group of people; a throng--
There is a large crowd assembled, waiting for the ball to drop.
It's nice to be out in a well-dressed crowd on a special occasion.

Crowed or crowed is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "crow", meaning to gloat or exult, or to utter a loud cry of joy--
He crowed with delight when he got the good news.
When he crowed, she knew that the news was good.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"As soon as he crowed "Happy New Year!", the crowd began to shout."

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

prediction, predilection

Prediction or prediction means a forecast or prognostication; an idea of future events or trends--
We are each going to contribute one prediction for the new year.
His Superbowl prediction was correct last year, for the first time ever.

Predilection or predilection means a preference;  a predisposition or leaning ( in favor of )--
He has always had a predilection for little red sports cars.
I see we share a predilection for costume dramas.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Our prediction for next year is that the consumer's predilection for new sharing platforms will continue."

Monday, December 29, 2014

packed, pact

Packed or packed is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "pack", meaning to load or fill, as a suitcase or goods for shipping--
He packed his suitcase last night; I don't know what's taking him so long.
We packed the glasses in small cartons, and the dishes in cardboard barrels.

Packed may also mean filled or crowded, as a public place full of people--
The train was packed; no one else could get in the door.
They played to a packed house; there were people standing in the back, and in the aisles.

Pact or pact ( rhymes with packed ) means a treaty or agreement--
Here's an article about the arms pact that's been in the news.
Thye made a pact to meet every year on the same day, no matter what.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We made a pact; whoever packed the bags has to unpack them."

Friday, December 26, 2014

hurts, hertz

Hurts or hurts is the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "hurt", meaning to injure or cause pain, physically or mentally--
Let go of my foot; that hurts!
Don't yell; that hurts his feelings.
Her attitude hurts business, but she doesn't seem to want to change.

Hurts may also be the plural of "hurt", meaning an injury or pain--
He remembered years later, the special bandages she put on his little hurts.
His hurts and scrapes were forgotten, as soon as he saw the ice cream truck.

Hertz or hertz ( rhymes with hurts ) is a unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second--
Radio waves are measured in hertz.
A blue whale will vocalize at 15-20 hertz.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He learned that radio waves are called hertz, and now he's sure that it hurts him to listen."

Thursday, December 25, 2014

nativity, naivete, naiveté

Nativity or nativity means birth; most commonly used to refer to the birth of Christ--
On December the 25th, Christians celebrate the nativity of Christ.
He often dreamed of returning to the place of his nativity.

Naivete or naivete ( also spelled naiveté or naivety ) means innocence, or the quality of being artlesss or simple--
Her naivete made a sort of shield; she didn't understand the meaning of their vulgar quips.
In his naivete, he believed them to be misguided, when, in fact, they were evil.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"In her naivete, she misunderstood the naughty joke--she thought it was a reference to the nativity."

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

flocks, phlox

Flocks or flocks is the plural ( more than one ) of "flock", meaning a group or herd; a number of animals of one kind kept together--
"There were shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flocks by night..."
After the snow stopped falling, there were flocks of birds, all clamoring for food.

Phlox or phlox ( rhymes with flocks ) means a flowering plant, common in gardens--
We will put phlox of different colors in front of the house.
I like to see the phlox blooming in Summer.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The white phlox reminded him of flocks of sheep he had seen, wandering in the fields."

Note--"flox" ( rhymes with flocks ) is a scientific or technical term, concerning the manipulation of DNA--
If we could flox this gene, we might be able to stop the spread of the disease.

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

again, a gain

Again or again  ( one word ) means once more, or another time--
Would you say that again, please?
I would like to eat here again, when it isn't so crowded.

A gain or a gain ( two words ) means one ( a ) increase, winnings, or improvement ( gain ) --
All that work only brought us a gain of a few thousand dollars.
The trip was expensive, but the contacts he made were a gain.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"If I show a gain of even a few pounds again, the doctor said I'll have to go on a diet."

Monday, December 22, 2014

firs, furs, furze

Firs or firs is the plural ( more than one ) of "fir", meaning an evergreen or conifer--
They cut down all of the young firs to sell for Christmas trees.
We've planted some firs along the fence; they'll cover it as they grow.

Furs or furs ( rhymes with firs ) is the plural ( more than one ) of "fur", meaning the hairy skin or pelt of an animal, or a garment made from it--
The trapper traded his furs for food and tools.
The old woman wore furs, even in Summer.

Furze or furze ( rhymes with firs ) means a European plant with yellow flowers; gorse--
He gathered a large bunch of furze and wild daisies.
The meadow is bright yellow with furze this time of year.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"They stood wrapped in furs, admiring the snow on the firs, in the same field that had bloomed with furze."

Friday, December 19, 2014

faucet, fossette

Faucet or faucet means the tap on a sink; a device for controlling the flow of water from a pipe or tap--
The faucet is leaking; we should call the plumber.
The tub needs a new faucet; the old one won't turn off all the way.

Fossette or fossette means a small depression or hollow; a dimple--
This type of shell has a fossette where it was attached, easily identifiable.
A small particle of a harsh chemical may cause a fossette; it may interfere with your vision.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"A faucet left dripping for a long time may eventually wear a fossette in a stone basin."

Thursday, December 18, 2014

glacier, glazier

Glacier or glacier means a mass of  ice, moving very slowly--
It would take a long period of very warm weather to melt a glacier.
At the end of the last ice age, this glacier reached to the end of the valley.

Glazier or glazier means someone who fits windows with panes of glass--
When the joiner is done making the window frames, the glazier will put the glass in them.
He tried to fix the window himself, but then he called a glazier.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We have asked a glazier to turn this into a picture window, so that we can look at the glacier and the mountains beyond."

Note--not to be confused with "glazer", meaning someone who puts the finish on pottery, leather, doughnuts, or something else--
The glazer will paint a distinctive design on each pot, and sign it on the bottom.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

found, founded

Found or found is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "find", meaning to recover something that was lost,  to come upon by chance, or to attain something sought--
He lost his keys, but he found them after a few minutes.
We found a great place to get a pizza.
He found a sense of belonging when he changed jobs.

Founded or founded is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "found", meaning to establish, or to build a base or a ground for something--
This country was founded in 1776.
They founded a new charity, one that will help the homeless.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He founded a tech startup, then found his new partners on an employment web site."

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

variance, variants

Variance or variance means difference or deviance--
I have marked each variance with a sticky note.
If you find a variance in the score, please correct it with a pencil.
Variance, especially when used with "at", may mean a difference of opinion--
Their opinions are always at variance; they never agree on an issue.
They were at variance, if not at loggerheads, on the issue; everyone was tired of discussing it.

Variance also means a permit to build or alter something in a manner or in a place forbidden by a local zoning ordinance; an offical exception to a zoning rule--
He asked the town council for a variance to expand the parking lot.
The zoning board refused to grant a variance for a taller fence.

Variants or variants ( rhymes with variance ) is the plural ( more than one ) of "variant", meaning a different version, spelling or interpretation--
There are several variants of this old song; which one do you want us to play?
There are dozens of variants of this old story, each with a different ending.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We will note each variance in the script, and attempt to make one play out of the many variants."

Monday, December 15, 2014

weave, we've

Weave or weave means to make cloth on a loom; or by interlacing thread or yarn--
She learned to weave, and she's making an afghan for the living room.
He built a loom, and he's going to weave a rug out of plastic bags.

Weave also means to move from side to side--
He had to weave through the crowd, so it took longer than usual.
The police pulled him over when they saw his car weave.

We've or we've ( rhymes with weave ) is a contraction ( short, informal form ) of "we have", meaning the speaker and one other person ( we ), used with a verb to indicate an action completed or finished in the past ( have )--
We've spent our vacation there every year; we want to go somewhere else.
We've hardly had time to unpack, and now we're going to move again.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He plans to weave a memory wall hanging, with a photo of each of the places we've visited."

Friday, December 12, 2014

four feet, forefeet

Four feet or four feet ( two words ) means the four legs of a quadruped animal, or possibly of a table, a piece of furniture, or an appliance--
People have injured cats, trying to find out if they really land on all four feet.
The microwave had four feet on the bottom, but two of them are missing.
Four feet or four feet may also be a measure of distance equal to 48 inches, or a yard and a foot--
The window is about three feet wide and four feet long.

Forefeet or forefeet ( one word, rhymes with four feet ) means the front two legs of a quadruped animal--
He had his forefeet up on the table, and he was wagging his tail.
Both of his forefeet have little spots on them; so we named him Freckles.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He jumped about four feet in the air, and landed on his forefeet, but he wasn't hurt."

Note--"four legs" means the four legs of a quadruped animal, or of a table or chair--
The dog was running as fast as his four legs would carry him.
This table used to have four legs, but it still stands up with only three.
Not to be confused with "forelegs", meaning the two front legs of a quadruped animal--
He has injured both forelegs, so he hobbles around until the casts come off.
Note # 2--"forepaws" means the two front paws of a quadruped animal, or the paws of the two front legs or feet--
He scratches at things with his forepaws, so we gave him a cardboard box to use for that.
Not to be confused with "four paws", meaning all four of the paws of a quadruped animal, or the paws of all of its legs or feet--
He has one gray spot on each of his four paws, so we named him Spotty.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

chivalry, chivari

Chivalry or chivalry means the medieval code of knighthood, including courtesy, bravery, and fidelity--
The knights of the round table were expected to live up to the code of chivalry.
He prided himself on his chivalry; he was always courteous to ladies.

Chivari or chivari ( also spelled chivaree, shivaree, charivari; nearly rhymes with chivalry ) means a celebration of noise; a serenade with noise, horns and banging pots--
We are planning to wake the newlyweds at midnight with a chivari.
We have a chivari for anyone who moves into the neighborhood.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"It offends his sense of chivalry to have a chivari for the new parents; he thinks we should leave them alone."

Note--"shivery" ( rhymes with chivari ) describes someone shaking or trembling from the cold--
They came in from playing in the snow all shivery and red in the face.

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

racial, racist

Racial or racial describes something having to do with blood or ancestry, or with the differences between ancestral or ethnic groups--
This company believes that racial diversity is a worthwhile goal, and hires accordingly.
There are no racial considerations in that company's hiring policies.

Racist or racist describes behavior or speech based on the idea that some ancestral or ethnic groups are superior to others--
He lost his government job when they found out that he belonged to a racist organization.
Any threats, name-calling, hate speech or racist comments will be deleted.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The old policy was racist in effect, if not in intent; the new policy will help us to promote racial diversity."

Note--"racy" is an informal term describing something suggestive, as alluding to sex behavior or sexual mores--
Please don't tell that racy story in front of the children.

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

gleam, glean

Gleam or gleam means a subdued light; a low flash or beam, literally or figuratively--
I saw a faint gleam in that direction; we must be near the coast.
The new treatment offers a gleam of hope for a full recovery.

Glean or glean means to gather the bits of grain left in the field after the harvest; to gather something bit by bit--
They went into the fields after the reapers, to glean what was left of the grain.
Just read through it quickly, and try to glean any relevant facts.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We could see the faint gleam from a campfire, probably lit by workers waiting to glean the fields."

Monday, December 8, 2014

immunity, impunity

Immunity or immunity means freedom from the danger of contracting a disease, by being rendered unsusceptible--
This vaccine provides immunity for life.
He has immunity because he has already had this disease, and you can only get it once.

Immunity or immunity also means exemption from liability or obligation--
The district attorney offered him immunity from prosecution if he agreed to testify against his partner.

Impunity or impunity means freedom from any threat of punishment or censure--
The legal system was in the gangster's pocket; he committed crimes with impunity.
He attended a private school where they misbehaved with impunity.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He was offered immunity from prosecution for past crimes, not permission to commit new crimes with impunity."

Friday, December 5, 2014

party, parti, parti--

Party or party means a gala or fete; a social gathering or an occasion for celebration--
We are having a party on Saturday. Will you come?
They are giving a party in honor of their parents' anniversary.

Party or party may also mean to take part in a celebration--
Last day of classes! Let's party until dawn!
All he wanted to do was party, so he flunked out of school.

Party or party also means a group with political opinions in common; a  faction--
He was a member of the conservative party, so he didn't vote for the tax reform bill.
His party has a majority of the house, so the measure is sure to pass.

Party may also mean one of the sides in a legal dispute--
"The party of the first part, also known as the plaintiff..."

Party may also mean a small group of persons assembled for a particular purpose--
They have been missing for hours; let's send out a scouting party.

Parti or parti means the basic scheme in an architectural design--
We'll show the client the parti, to see if they approve the design.

Parti-- or parti-- is an old-fashioned prefix ( added to the beginning of a word ), meaning varied or multi--
His parti-colored suit made him look something like a jester.
Everyone wore bright shirts and parti-colored hats, in honor of the holiday.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Everyone wore parti-colored gowns, to make the party more festive."

Thursday, December 4, 2014

march, marsh

March or march means to walk in military formation, with a measured step, or in a deliberate manner-
Forward, march!
We will all march in unison, down to the end of the parade ground.
March or march may also mean a demonstration, as for a political cause--
There will be a march on Saturday, to protest the new tax law.

Marsh or marsh means a swamp or wetland--
We saw a heron and some ducks at the marsh.
Part of the marsh has been made into a wildlife sanctuary.

Now that you know that,  you can say--
"We are going to march to the city hall, to ask for a new law to preserve the marsh as a park."

Note--"March" ( always capitalized ) means the third month of the year--
The weather begins to get warm in March.
There will be a holiday on March 1st.

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

wanton, want on

Wanton or wanton ( one word ) means careless, reckless, or lawless; unrestrained--
The accused has shown a wanton disregard for the safety of the consumers of this product.
The act was not only a crime, but a display of wanton cruelty. We ask for the maximum penalty.

Want on or want on ( two words ) means desire or wish [ something ] on top or as a covering; in use or functioning--
What do you want on your burger?
Is this the quilt you want on your bed?
Is this the record you want on?

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Bacon is all I want on my sandwich; I have a wanton disregard for cholesterol warnings."

 Note--"wanton" is also an old-fashioned term for a sexually loose person; particularly a woman--
Do not go about so; people will deem you a wanton!
Wanton may also mean to frolic or "party"--
It's a fine day; we should wanton in the glade.
Note # 2--"wonton" means the noodle dumpling served in soup at Chinese restaurants--
We'd like some egg rolls and some wonton soup.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

act in, actin

Actin or actin ( one word ) means a globulin that plays a part in muscle contraction; a part of the human body--
A body deficient in actin will have difficulty moving in a normal way.
The disease seems to be linked to a decrease in actin.

Act in or act in ( two words ) means to behave or to perform ( in )--
I wish he wouldn't act in such an affected way.
He is going to act in the school play; he has a small part.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Could a lack of actin cause a muscle to act in such a strange way?"

Note--"actin--" is a prefix ( added to the beginning of a word ), used to describe the physics of chemical effects produced by radiation--
He is studying the effects of actinic rays.
Note # 2--"acting" is a participle ( used with a helper verb, or as a noun ) of "act", meaning to behave or to perform in a play, TV show, or movie--
His acting may win him an Oscar.
Note # 3--Some authors will omit the "g" at the end of "acting", to imitate actual speech, particularly informal or uneducated speech--
I don't like the way he's actin'.

Monday, December 1, 2014

act on, acton

Act on or act on ( two words ) means to do something; to exert force or energy [ act ], with respect or regard for, or with the thought of [ on ]--
He felt a surging resentment, but he refused to act on it.
He was quick to make a resolution, but slow to act on it.
Act on or act on ( two words ) might also mean to take part in a show or play [ act ], atop or supported by [ on ]--
He liked to read the plays aloud, but he refused to act on the stage.

Acton or acton ( one word ) means a quilted or padded garment worn under mail or armor, in medieval times--
They removed his mail and his acton, to have a look at his wound.
The arrow penetrated his mail, but stuck in his acton; it only scratched his side.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"All was lost. He lay with his acton soaked in blood; his subordinates refused to act on his command."

Friday, November 28, 2014

mayor, may or

Mayor or mayor ( one word ) means the chief executive of a city or municipality--
He is running for mayor in the next election.
The mayor will make a speech; then we will begin the ceremony.

May or or may or ( two words ) means might, or possibly, offered as an alternative--
The weather report said that it may or may not rain.
Will I show up? I may or I may not.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We may or may not endorse him as a candidate for mayor in the upcoming election."

Thursday, November 27, 2014

butter, but her

Butter or butter ( one word ) means the spread or cooking ingredient made from the fatty part of milk--
Please pass the butter.
Is this butter, or margarine?

But her or but her ( two words ) means except, or except for, [ something ] belonging to or concerning a female--
She wanted to come with us, but her mom said no.
She hoped for a scholarship, but her grades weren't good enough.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"She prefers butter, but her doctor said it isn't good for her."

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

crescent, cresset

Crescent or crescent describes the shape of a circle, with a circle cut away, like the new moon--
We will have crescent rolls with dinner; everyone likes them.
The crescent is a symbol of Islam.
Look! A crescent moon!

Cresset or cresset means a metal basket hung from a pole, or attached to a wall, with a fire in it, for a light or beacon--
We could see the grim look on his face as he passed under the cresset.
The room was lit by a single cresset, hung high over the hall.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"By the dim light of the cresset, he could see the glimmering crescent suspended over the throne."

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

beheld, be held

Beheld or beheld ( one word ) is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "behold", meaning to see or observe; to look at--
When he looked up he beheld a column of smoke, so he ran to the phone to call the fire department.
He never forgot the first time that he beheld the ocean, or the sense of awe it inspired in him.

Be held or be held ( two words ) means to carry on, to conduct, or to host, as an arranged group activity--
The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. in the main hall.
Be held may mean to be kept withing limits or bounds--
With treatment, the disease may be held in check, but there's no cure.
Be held may mean to be embraced--
Her bosom heaved, and she longed to be held in his arms.
Be held may mean to be considered--
You may be held responsible for any damages.
Be held may mean paused or stopped--
How long will we be held up?

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He feared he'd been dreaming, until he beheld the notice, telling when the ceremony would be held."

Note--"beholding" ( one word ) is the present participle of "behold", meaning to see or obeserve--
He stood rapt, as if beholding an inner vision.
Not to be confused with "be holding" ( two words ), a conditional or future form of  "hold"--
He might be holding a winning hand, or he might be bluffing.
Thye will be holding a  seance this afternoon.
Note # 2--"beholden" is an old-fashioned word meaning indebted or obligated--
We're beholden to you for your help; maybe some day we'll be able to return the favor.

Monday, November 24, 2014

quarts, quartz

Quarts or quarts is the plural ( more than one ) of "quart", a unit of measure for liquids or some solids; a unit of capacity--
Four quarts make a gallon.
I bought two quarts of milk, and it's all gone. 

Quartz or quartz ( rhymes with quarts ) means a kind of rock or mineral--
She found a large piece of pink quartz; it's quite pretty.
Quartz is used in the production of radio transmitters.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He put some pieces of quartz in the bowl, and then added a few quarts of water, before he put the goldfish in."

Friday, November 21, 2014

born, borne, bourn, bourne

Born or born is a participle ( used with a helper verb ) of "bear", meaning to give birth, often used to describe the birth of someone, or the conditions or place of birth--
He was born in New York, but he lives in California now.
Some people believe that we are born with talents, other people believe that we learn everything.

Borne or borne ( rhymes with born ) is a participle ( used with a helper verb ) of "bear" meaning endure or put up with; to carry, usually as a load or burden--
The old man has borne too much suffering; he may never get well.
This outrage is not to be borne!

Bourne or bourne, ( sometimes spelled bourn, rhymes with born ) is an old-fashioned word for a bound or limit, sometimes used to mean an end or goal--
We can rest when we reach the bourne; there's a cottage nearby.
He was fired by ambition, with fame the bourne.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He was born at the beginning of the century, and he had borne much hardship before he reached the bourne of retirement age."

Note--"borne" may also mean a type of circular sofa with a cushioned cone or cylinder in the center--
They sat on opposite sides of a red velevet borne, ignoring one another.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

picks, pyx

Picks or picks is the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "pick", meaning to choose or select--
He always picks the worst players last; ask him to be more tactful.
We're going to go with her when she picks out her gown.

Picks may also be the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "pick", meaning to use a pointed tool or instrument to dislodge something, or to break something up--
This is how a burglar picks a lock.
He picks at the ice on the step when he goes in and out, but it's still slippery.

Picks may also be the plural ( more than one ) of "pick", meaning the pointed tool used to break up cement or ice, or to start a hole--
We don't have any power equipment; we'll have to use picks and shovels.
We had two ice picks, and now I can't find either one of them.

Picks may also be the plural of the noun ( thing or idea ) "pick", meaning, informally, a choice or option--
If you weren't happy with your picks, maybe you can trade them.
He'll probably be one of the first draft picks.

Pyx or pyx ( sometimes spelled pix,  rhymes with picks ) means a covered goblet or cup used to hold the bread used in religious ceremonies, or a small chest used to hold minted coins to be weighed and tested or assayed--
The priest is holding a pyx; you can see it in the picture.
This famous gold and silver pyx is now in a museum.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The priest picks one helper every Sunday, who can do everything but carry the pyx."

Note--"picks" may also be the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "pick", used in some familiar combinations--
"Pick on" means to bully--
He picks on the smaller children; we'll have to put a stop to it.
"Pick up" means to gather or collect--
She picks up the children from school before she goes home.
"Pick up" also means to take something from the floor or ground--
He picks up a penny when he sees one; he says it's lucky.
"Pick at" means to take off tiny pieces at a time--
He picks at his food; he never seems hungry.
Note # 2--"pics" ( rhymes with picks ) is a slang term for "pictures"--
Did you see the pics he posted to Facebook?

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

reveille, revile

Reveille or reveille means the signal, usually a bugle call, directing military troops to assemble in the morning--
When you hear them sound first call, get ready for reveille.
Reveille will be at 0600 hours.

Revile or revile means to speak [ to or of ] contemptuously or with loathing--
He didn't have to revile the play; he might have merely said that he didn't like it.
Don't let him revile the staff; two of them have given notice.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The sergeant will publicly revile anyone who is late for reveille, so be on time."

Note--"revelry" means merrymaking or partying--
The dean put a stop to their noisy revelry.

Note # 2--"reverie" means a daydream--
He doesn't hear you; he's lost in a reverie.

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

ingratitude, in gratitude

Ingratitude or ingratitude ( one word ) means a lack of thankfulness; a refusal to acknowledge a gift or benefit--
He claims that no one has ever helped him--such ingratitude!
If you show ingratitude, he may refuse to help next time.

In gratitude or in gratitude ( two words ) means with thanks or an acknowledgement of appreciation for a gift or benefit--
He wrote a note, in gratitude for the job offer.
He sent a gift in gratitude for their hospitality.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Ingratitude now will only cost us later; let's offer them a bonus, in gratitude for an excellent job."

Monday, November 17, 2014

exalt, exult

Exalt or exalt means to elevate or raise up, especially in rank or prestige; to honor or esteem--
The king planned to exalt him to the rank of count.
He wrote a poem that would exalt her to the status of a goddess, but she didn't believe a word.

Exult or exult means to feel joy; to rejoice, especially in triumph--
It may be too soon to exult over our victory--we should wait until all of the returns are in.
They deserve to exult, even if they do it by pouring champagne on one another.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He wants to exult with a special party, to celebrate the promotion that will exalt him to vice-president."

Friday, November 14, 2014

pencil, pencel, pensile

Pencil or pencil means a writing implement, usually made of wood or plastic, and filled with lead or graphite--
Make sure to use a pencil, so you'll be able to correct your mistakes.
My pencil point broke, and I don't have a sharpener.
Pencil may mean to write with a pencil, especially in the sense of something unfixed or temporary--
I'll pencil that in until we get the official schedule.
Pencil may also mean a set of line or rays emanating from, or converging in, a point--
The flashlight seemed to emit a pencil of distinct rays of light.

Pencel or pencel ( sometimes spelled pensil, rhymes with pencil ) means a pennant or small flag on the end of a lance--
On the end of his lance was a red pencel with a golden lion.
He carries the flag like a medieval knight, with a pencel on his lance.

Pensile or pensile ( rhymes or nearly rhymes with pencil ) means hanging, as the nests of some birds--
The oriole builds a pensile nest; it's easy to recognize.
I have been watching a bird in the yard, building a pensile nest.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He used a red pencil to draw a lance and pencel, with a device of an oriole and its pensile nest."

Note--"penoncel" or "pennoncel" means "pencel", the small flag or pennant on the end of a lance--
He wants a knight's costume, with a pennoncel decorated with a wild boar.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

important, impotent

Important or important describes something or someone of great consequence; something significant--
There will be an important meeting after work; I expect everyone to attend.
The game is important to him; we're all going to be there.

Impotent or impotent describes someone who is powerless, or who lacks force or effectivenes, physically or mentally--
His arm was still trapped in the rubble, leaving him impotent, and unable to free himself.
The argument with his boss left him in an impotent rage.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Football is very important to him; he feels impotent being unable to play."

Note--"importance" is the noun ( thing or idea ) form of "important", meaning of great consequence or significance--
I can't exaggerate the importance of good work habits.
Note # 2--"impotence" is the moun ( thing or idea ) form of "impotent", meaning powerless--
HIs unemployment left him with nothing but gloom and a feeling of impotence.

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

physically, psychically

Physically or physically means in a corporeal or bodily way; in a material way, as opposed to a mental or emotional way--
He has trouble in school because he sometimes acts out his emotions physically.
He goes to the gym to stay physically fit.

Psychically or psychically means in a spiritual or mental way, as opposed to a physical or corporeal way--
Psychically, they're a perfect match; they get along very well together.
Psychically may also mean through the use of supernatural or paranormal perception of some kind--
She claims to be able to solve crimes psychically.
He thinks the dog can communicate psychically, but I think it uses body language and sounds.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He is physically healthy, but psychically, he's a wreck."

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

suffering, suffrage, sufferance

Suffering or suffering means misery, pain or distress--
Doctor, can you give him something to ease his suffering?
The accident caused a lot of suffering, both physical and emotional.

Suffering is also a participle of the verb ( action word ) "suffer", meaning to feel pain or misery; to undergo or to be subjected to [ something ], physically or psychically--
He is suffering from a broken leg, and won't be able to play.
He is still suffering the effects of a stroke; he forgets things.
He won't come out with us; he claims he's suffering from a broken heart.

Suffering is a participle of the verb "suffer", which may also mean to put up with or permit--
He never was known for suffering fools gladly.
He has been suffering too much bad behavior; the children need some discipline.

Suffrage or suffrage means the vote, or the right to vote--
My grandmother could remember the movement for women's suffrage, in the 1900's.
Suffrage was once reserved for property owners.

Sufferance or sufferance means forbearance or toleration--
The campers were here on our sufferance, but now they want our permission to come back next year.
This was done on our sufferance, if not with our permission, and we'll have to do something about it.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"On our sufferance the women agitated for suffrage, and now we are suffering at the polls."

Monday, November 10, 2014

millstone, milestone

Millstone or millstone means a large stone that was used for grinding grain in a mill, used figuratively to mean a heavy burden--
When the water turns the wheel, the millstone turns and grinds the grain.
 He sometimes felt that his responsibilities were a millstone around his neck.

Milestone or milestone means a marker or sign used to mark a highway or route, often used figuratively to mean a significant life event--
Turn left when you see the milestone marked "7".
His first solo was a milestone in his career.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Buying a house should have been a milestone in his life, but instead the old place was a financial millstone, sinking him deeper in debt every day."

Friday, November 7, 2014

typo, type O

Typo or typo ( one word ) is short for "typographical error", meaning a mistake made in typing ( now keyboarding ),  not a mistake in spelling or grammar--
Just correct the typo on the first page; the rest looks good.
If you make a typo, move the cursor to it, or push "backspace" to correct it.

Type O or type O ( two words, rhymes with typo ) means the blood type, designated by the letter "O"--
Someone with type O  blood couldn't be the parent or offspring of someone with type AB blood.
Type O blood is sometimes called "universal donor" blood.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"This must be a typo, or a clerical error; his blood is type O, not type A."

Thursday, November 6, 2014

oft, offed

Oft or oft is an old-fashioned word for "often", meaning frequently; in many cases--
"Oft, in the stilly night..."
His family never tired of the old man's oft-told tales.

Offed or offed ( rhyes with oft ) is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "off", a criminal slang term for murder or murder for hire, particularly of a fellow gangster--
One of his most reliable henchmen had been offed, and the kingpin wanted revenge.
He'd never squeal; the boss would have him offed.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The gang grew suspicious of his oft-repeated story of the night his partner was offed."

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

conjuries, congeries

Conjuries or conjuries is the plural ( more then one ) of "conjury", meaning an act of magic, such as a spell or incantation, particularly one used to invoke a spirit, or the devil himself--
The magician promised to make them all wealthy with his conjuries.
He claimed that his conjuries could produce spirits that would do his bidding.

Congeries or congeries ( singular, but always with an "s" ) means an eels' nest, or, figuratively, a truly tangled mess, a heap or pile--
There in the harbor, they stumbled upon an actual congeries, a tangled family of eels.
They had to make their way through a congeries of forms and red tape before they could collect their package.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"To prove to them that conjuries are meaningless, he had to unravel a congeries of beliefs and superstitions."

Note--"conger" is a large salt-water eel--
We have a nice conger for dinner; maybe I'll fry it.
Note # 2--"conjure" means to invoke with a spell or incantation, or to produce through magic, literally or figuratively--
He's a culinary genius--he can conjure up dinner out of nearly anything.

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

vice, vise

Vice or vice means an immoral habit; an evil or depraved practice--
He has worked on the vice squad for a year now, and he wants a transfer.
The vice crimes unit investigates gambling, prostitution, drugs and alcohol.

Vise or vise is a contraption used to hold two things together, usually by screwing together the two jaws of the vise--
Put a thin coat of glue on each side, and secure in a vise for several hours or overnight.
If you use a vise to hold the board, it will be easier to cut.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He let out a stream of profanity when he pinched his finger in the vise, but swearing is his only vice."

Note--"vice--" is also a prefix ( added to the beginning of a word, with or without the dash or space ), meaning a deputy or second-in-command--
He is running for vice president.
He hopes to be appointed vice-consul.
Note # 2--"visé" is an old-fshioned word for "visa", meaning a stamp or endoersement on a passport, meant to show that the passport has been inspected, and the person has permission to enter the country--
Make sure that they stamp your passport; it should say "visé".

Monday, November 3, 2014

apt, apt.

Apt or apt means likely; inclined or disposed--
He is apt to lose his temper when things don't go as planned.
Things are apt to get hectic when we have a rush order.
He is an apt pupil, and learns quickly.

Apt or apt also means fitting; suitable to the purpose or occasion--
A few apt remarks will get the audience's attention.
It was an apt observation, if somewhat crude.

Apt. or apt. is an abbreviation of "apartment", meaning  a room or rooms for rent, for use as a dwelling--
The sign says "apt. for rent"; let's call and ask about it.
Look in the real estate ads under "apt.".

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He is apt to make spelling mistakes; tell him to simply write "apt." on the sign."

Note--not to be confused with "appt.", an abbreviation of "appointment", meaning a meeting agreed upon in advance--
His notebook sats "appt. 10 am", but it doesn't say where, or with whom.

Friday, October 31, 2014

hollow, hallow

Hollow or hollow means empty inside; having a space or cavity within, literally or figuratively--
This hollow gourd will make a nice bird feeder.

It was a hollow victory, in the end.

Hallow or hallow means to consecrate or make holy; to venerate or honor as holy--
"But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate--we can not consecrate--we can not hallow--this ground."
They held a special service to hallow the ground to be used for a cemetery.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"His pledge to hallow her memory rang hollow, since he had behaved badly when she was alive."

Thursday, October 30, 2014

lapse, laps

Lapse or lapse means a slip or error; or a fall or decline to a lower grade or state--
It was a minor lapse; I'm sure we can overlook it.
Be sure to tell the doctor if you have a memory lapse.
It was a lapse in judgment, but I'm sure he can correct it.
He thinks we will lapse into barbarism without constant supervision.

Laps or laps ( rhymes with lapse ) is the plural ( more than one ) of "lap", meaning the part of the body from waist to knees, when sitting down--
The mothers all had their babies in their laps.
They sat on the ground, their laps full of the apples they had gathered.

Laps may also be the plural of "lap", meaning a circuit of a course, track, or pool--
He ran three laps of the track before he got tired and stopped.
Four laps of this track make a mile.

Laps may also be the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "lap", meaning, of water, to wash against the shore in a repetitive motion--
He likes to sit and listen, as the ocean laps the shore.
At high tide, the water laps against the deck.

Laps may be the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "lap", meaning, of an animal, to drink water by scooping it up with the tongue--
What an odd sound the dog makes when it laps water from the bowl!
He laps soup out of the bowl, and what a noise it makes.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The coach let his attention lapse, and counted three laps instead of four."

Note--"Lapps" ( always capitalized ) is the plural of "Lapp", meaning a person from Lapland--
The Lapps live in the northern part of Scandinavia.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

in here, inhere

In here or in here ( two words ) means within ( in) this place or location ( here )--
It is too warm in here.
Put the suitcases in here.
Were they in here when the alarm went off?

Inhere or inhere ( one word, rhymes with in here ) means to be a permanent and inseparable quality or attribute--
In a democratic legislature, long debates inhere.
This job seems easier when you are aware of the problems that inhere in industry.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Let's go in here, and avoid the problems that inhere in a public argument."

Note--"inhere" is a verb ( action word ). The related adjective "inherent" describes a quality or attribute that is permanent and inseparable--
Long debates are an inherent part of the democratic process.

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

rift, riffed

Rift or rift means a fissure or cleft; an opening made by splitting something solid, literally or figuratively--
From a distance, you can see that the canyon is really a rift in the mountain.
His comment caused a rift in their relationship that seems to be permanent.

Riffed or riffed ( rhymes with rift ) is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "riff", meaning to repeat a melodic phrase--
He sometimes riffed the same bit of a tune for an hour, like variations on a theme.
When he felt blue, he picked up his saxophone and riffed every sound he heard.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He riffed on the sad theme of his rift with his girlfriend, until everyone was depressed."

Monday, October 27, 2014

cyst, cist

Cyst or cyst means a swelling or lump on a body, made of a sac filled with fluid--
He wants the doctor to look at the cyst on his leg.
He has had a cyst removed before, so they are going to do a biopsy.

Cyst or cyst also mean a kind of cell or sac containing reproductive bodies or a dormant animal--
If you look at the slide through your microscope, you will see a cyst containing reproductive cells.

Cist or cist ( most commonly rhymes with cyst ) means a box or casket for religious uses; a prehistoric tomb or casket--
The archaeologists are very excited about the cist they found at the excavation site.
The cist seems to contain a skeleton; we'll have to dig it out before we're sure.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He believes the cyst was caused by handling a cist containing human remains, but it seems unlikely."

Friday, October 24, 2014

shyer, shire

Shyer or shyer ( sometimes spelled shier ) is the comparative ( more than ) form of "shy", meaning bashful or timid--
You make the speech; he's shyer than you are.
He was shyer before he went away to camp.

Shire or shire ( rhymes with shyer )  is a British word for a county or administrative district--
This is the largest forest in the shire.
Everyone in the shire knows them; they're quite famous, locally.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"How can he run for public office? He's shyer than anyone in the shire."

Thursday, October 23, 2014

tort, torte

Tort or tort means a civil wrong, such as negligence or a breach of trust, which has injured the plaintiff in some way--
He hasn't committed a crime, but he may have committed a tort--you'll have to bring a civil suit.
If the goods were delivered as stipulated, there is no tort.

Torte or torte ( rhymes with tort ) is a kind of cake, usually a rich, dense cake--
She sends a chocolate torte every year, from a catalog.
We are trying to make a raspberry torte; I hope it's as good as it looks.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"You can sue, because his negligence is a tort, and it caused the destruction of your torte."

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

oppose, appose

Oppose or oppose means to resist or combat; to be hostile to; to get in the way of--
We expect most of the party to oppose the bill.
Since you oppose the new bond issue, do you think we should raise taxes instead?

Appose or appose ( rhymes with oppose ) means to place side by side, as a counterweight; to juxtapose, literally or figuratively--
If we appose the fountain with a large statue, the design will be more balanced.
Notice how the author uses an informal phrase to appose the scientific term.

 Now that you know that, you can say--
"I won't oppose the design plan if you include a row of trees to appose the wall."

Note--not to be confused with "a pose" ( two words, rhymes with oppose ), meaning one ( a ) physical stance or attitude; an affectaion ( pose )--
He struck a pose and made one of his smart remarks.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Britain, Briton

Britain ( always capitalized ) means England, or, more specifically, the island that contains England, Scotland, and Wales--
England, Scotland, and Wales are called Great Britain.
Arthur was once the king of Britain.

Briton ( always capitalized ) means a British subject; someone who lives in or who comes from England--
Yes, a Briton is a foreigner in the United States, although we speak the same language.
You can tell by his accent that he's a Briton.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He's a Briton, and sometimes gets homesick for Britain."

Note--"Britons" is the plural ( more than one ) of "Briton", meaning a British subject; someone who lives in or comes from England--
They are Britons; that's why they sound strange.
Note # 2--"Britons" may also mean one of the ancient tribes that once inhabited what is now England--
England was inhabited by several different tribes of people--the Angles, Britons, Picts, and Jutes were there when the Romans came.
Note # 3--"Briton's" is the possessive ( belonging to ) form of "Briton", meaning a Britsh subject or an inhabitant of England--
He has a Canadian's manners, but a Briton's accent; he has lived in both countries.
"Briton's" may also be a contraction of "Briton is"--
This Briton's too homesick to stay much longer.
The possessive form of "Britons" ( more than one ) is "Britons'  "--
The Britons' territory now includes all of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Note # 4--"Britain's" is the possessive ( belonging to ) form of "Britain", meaning England--
Elizabeth is Britain's queen.
"Britain's " may also be a contraction of "Britain is "--
Britain's going to discuss that with the United States ambassador.

Monday, October 20, 2014

habit, inhabit

Habit or habit means custom or routine; a behavior pattern that may become involuntary through long practice, for good or for ill--
He gets annoyed if anything interferes with his habit of stopping for coffee in the morning.
That's a bad habit; you should try to quit.

 Habit may also mean a costume or garment, usually one worn by a member of a religious order--
She doesn't wear a habit, so people don't usually guess that she's a nun.
She had a riding habit made; she says it's more comfortable.

Inhabit or inhabit means to live or dwell in, literally or figuratively--
How many people inhabit this dwelling?
A cloud of gloom seems to inhabit this place.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"She has an odd habit of wanting to inhabit any new place she sees."

Friday, October 17, 2014

taper, tapir

Taper or taper means to become smaller or narrower at one end--
When you're finished making the awl, it should taper to a point at one end.
He wants the monument to taper to a point at the top.

Taper is also an old-fashioned word for a thin kind of candle, often used for lighting candles or fires--
Take a taper to light your way up the stairs.

Tapir or tapir ( rhymes with taper ) means the animal from South America that looks something like a pig--
We saw a tapir and an anteater at the zoo.
Class, who can tell me where the tapir comes from?

Now that you know that, you can sayy--
"Make it taper to a round blunt end, like the snout of a tapir."

Note--"taper off" means to gradually diminsh in strength or force, to lessen by degrees--
It started with a lot of excitement, which quickly began to taper off.

Thursday, October 16, 2014

sucker, succor

Sucker or sucker means a shoot growing from the underground stem or root of a plant--
You can use the sucker to start a new plant; just put the end of it in some dirt.
When the plant sends out a sucker, root it in some dirt.

Sucker may also mean a type of freshwater fish--
See the sucker stuck to the side of the tank?
He only caught one fish, a small sucker.

Sucker may mean a lollipop--
She dropped her sucker; wash it off and give it back to her.
Grandpa always brings a sucker when he comes to visit.

Sucker may mean a chump or dupe; someone easily cheated or deceived--
He never knew she'd been cheating; what a sucker.
That's a scam; don't be a sucker.

Sucker may mean a body or machine part adapted or made for sucking--
He has a little sucker on the end of each leg, so he can walk upside down.
The sucker on this pump is broken; we'll have to have it repaired.

Succor or succor ( rhymes with sucker ) means help or aid; assistance--
The new shelter will give succor to our neediest citizens.
People from all over reached out to offer succor to the victims of the disaster.

Succor may also mean to help or aid; to offer assistance--
He left this money to succor the poor, not to found an organization.
He had hoped to succor a maiden in distress, but he changed the old man's tire, anyway.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He offered succor to the crying child in the form of a bright red sucker."

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

hoop, whoop

Hoop or hoop means a circular frame or support; a stiff circular band--
She wanted to dress up in an old hoop skirt, from the antebellum days.
The children played games with the hoop from an old barrel.

Whoop or whoop ( usually rhymes with hoop ) means a noise; a cry or shout of excitement, similar to the call of an owl--
When he heard the news, he let out a whoop of joy.
Every man in the regiment let out a war whoop as the troops advanced on the enemy.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"When he threw the hoop that landed on the post and won the prize, he let out a victory whoop."

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

imprison, in prison

Imprison or imprison ( one word ) means to lock up; to confine or to put in jail--
The government of the United States may not imprison anyone without charge for more than 48 hours.
If convicted, he will probably be sentenced to probation; the court might not imprison a first offender.

In prison or in prison ( two words ) means within or inside of ( in ) a jail or prison--
He was in prison for several years, and he's having trouble adjusting.
How long has he been in prison?

Now that you know that, you can say--
"If the judge decides to imprison him, he won't be in prison for more than six months."

Note--"imprisonment" ( one word ) means the state or condition of being confined or in jail--
The sentence is imprisonment for five years.
The phrase "in prison meant" means within or inside ( in ) a jail ( prison ), and what was the sense or value, or what were the consequences ( meant )--
He won an award for his poem about what being in prison meant to him.


Monday, October 13, 2014

refuge, refugee

Refuge or refuge means a place of safety or shelter--
The old barn made a convenient refuge from the storm.
They walked away from the city, and sought refuge in a nearby town.

Refugee or refugee means a person fleeing danger or disaster, most commonly used to mean someone who flees to another country--
He came here as a refugee from Cambodia, where he had been a political prisoner.
"You don't have to live like a refugee..."

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The refugee went from place to place, seeking refuge from religious persecution."

Friday, October 10, 2014

petrol, petrel

Petrol or petrol means gasoline or petroleum. British speakers are more likely to say "petrol" when Americans would say "gas"--
The lorry is almost out of petrol.
We need to stop for petrol at the next exit.

Petrel or petrel ( rhymes or nearly rhymes with petrol ) means a kind of sea bird, one said to be able to walk on water--
Look at the petrel bobbing up and down in the water.
He took a photo of a petrel in flight; he wants to enter it in a contest.

Now that you know that, you can say--
They rescued a petrel that had been soaked in petrol after the oil spill."

Note--no to be confused with "patrol", meaning to maintain order and security by passing through an area--
He wants to work for the border patrol.
"Patrol" may also mean a small group of persons; a division of a troop--
There will be eight men in each patrol.

Thursday, October 9, 2014

apps, apse

Apps or apps is the plural ( more than one ) of "app", short for "application", meaning a computer or smartphone program designed to perform a specific task--
He has designed three new shopping apps, and hopes that they'll all be popular.
I have too many apps on my smartphone; I don't know which to use.

Apse or apse ( rhymes with apps ) means a part of a church--a large vaulted recess, usually containing the altar--
This church has a famous painting decorating the apse.
The tabernacle is in the apse, in a niche in the wall behind the altar.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"One of the new apps will show you the apse of your local church during Sunday services."

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

oppressed, appressed

Oppressed or oppressed describes someone who has been burdened unjustly, or weighed down by harsh authority--
The minister warned the king that his oppressed subjects might revolt.
The peasants were oppressed by heavy taxes, but they didn't dare to complain.

Appressed or appressed describes something that fits closely; a thing that fits snugly against another thing--
These two pieces should be cut so that they can be appressed, with no gap between them.
These were appressed until they warped in the rain; we'll have to make new ones.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He felt oppressed, as an appressed block of wood, with no room to move or turn about."

Note--"a pressed" ( two words ) describes one item ( a ) that has been ironed ( pressed ) or flattened by a weight, as a leaf or flower--
She found a pressed flower in an old book.
He needs a pressed shirt; these are all wrinkled. [ He needs a shirt that has been pressed.]
He needs a shirt pressed; do you have time? [ He has a wrinkled shirt he wants ironed. ]

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

assistance, assitants

Assistance or assistance means help, aid, or support--
He heard someone call for help, and ran to offer assistance.
Your asssistance in this matter is appreciated.

Assistants or assistants ( rhymes with assistance ) is the plural ( more than one ) of "assistant", meaning a helper or aide--
The scientist and his assistants worked on the problem for more than a year.
Each interviewer will have two assistants.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We couldn't have finished on time without the assistance of the carpenter and his assistants."

Monday, October 6, 2014

arson, our son

Arson or arson means the crime of intentionally burning a building or property--
It was a five-alarm fire; the fire chief suspects arson.
Arson is one of the major felonies, along with murder, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

Our son or our son ( two words ) means the male offspring ( son) belonging to the speaker and one other person ( our )--
Our son will graduate next year.
They would like their daughter to meet our son.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Our son was accused of arson, but he claims that he's innocent."

Friday, October 3, 2014

biracial, by racial

Biracial or biracial ( one word ) means a person of two different races; a child of people who are of different races--
He is biracial, and he often thinks people are biased, both black and white.
They didn't object to his Japanese bride, but they worried about whether a biracial child be accepted.

By racial or by racial ( two words ) means through the means or agency of ( by ) [something] used to describe a portion of a population characterized by distinctive physical traits, that are passed on to descendants ( racial )--
If you are offended by racial stereotypes, don't watch this movie.
The Nazis tried to sort the population by racial traits.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Their biracial children object to being classified by racial characteristics."

Thursday, October 2, 2014

practical, practicable

Practical or practical describes something related to everyday life, work, or business--
He's a practical  man; he likes to talk about work, but not much else.
Practical also means suited for or designed for actual use--
He is studying practical math, the kind used in business.
We get closer to a practical working robot every year.
Practical also means able to think in terms of advantages or disadvantages; of the outcome or consequences; matter-of-fact--
If they get emotional, remind them to be practical.
This talk of values is getting us nowhere; we need to think in practical terms.
Practical also means in effect, or as in actual use--
We have to plan for bad weather; it's a practical certainty.
Pratical describes someone skilled in getting along in everyday life, someone who considers needs before wants or fancies--
She's a practical woman; she always has the house taken care of, and money left at the end of the month.

Practicable or practicable describes something that can be done with the means available; something feasible--
We need a practicable solution, one the county treasury can afford.
Given the time constraints, what would be a practicable alternative?
Practicable also describes a working part of a theater set, as opposed to something made only for show--
We'll need to construct a practicable faucet, one she can turn on and off during the performance.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"No more philosophical digressions; let's be practical, and try to work out a practicable arrangement."

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

step, steppe

Step or step means to lift the foot and set it down a short distance from where it was, then to move the other foot and the body with it--
Anyone who wants to volunteer, step forward.
Don't step in the puddle!

Step also means one pace; one movement of the foot, or the distance covered by one pace--
"That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."
 Come on, just one more step.

Step also means one stage in a series, mentally or physically--
Step one, open the box and read the directions.
Just try it one step at a time.
The first step is to admit that you have a problem.

Step may mean a riser in a set of stairs--
She is sitting on the front step, waiting for the ice-cream truck.
The first step is high; be careful.

Step may mean the form of a dance; the particular moves or rules of a popular dance--
They are trying to learn a new dance step.
This step is complicated; pay attention.

Steppe or steppe ( rhymes with step ) means a treeless plain or expanse of grassland--
The wind on the steppe blew the snow into a blizzard.
They raise cattle on a large tract of steppe.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Each step was difficult in the deep snow of the steppe."

Note--"step--", used as a prefix ( added to the beginning of a word ) indicates a relation made through the remarriage of a parent--
When your father gets married, you will have a step-mother.
Did you have a nice visit with your stepsister?

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

restless, restive, restful

Restless or restless means fidgety, agitated, or uneasy; unable to concentrate or stand still--
He is restless and full of energy; he needs something to do.
The children get restless when they stay indoors all day.

Restless also means never sleeping, stopping or standing still--
He had a restless night, but he's sleeping now.
He kept to his task with restless devotion.

Restive or restive means impatient with control, restraint, or delay; discontent--
The pupils become restive when kept after school.
The people have been restive since the announcement; they are gathered in the public square.

Restful or restful means peaceful or tranquil; giving or leading to physical ease or peace of mind--
The lake house is restful this time of year; all the vacationers are gone.
A day at home doing nothing seems restful to him; she gets bored.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"This trip was meant to be restful, but we ran into a restive group of protesters, and now we're spending a restless night."

Note--"rest less" ( two words ) means ease or peace ( rest ) in a smaller or diminished quantity ( less )--
If you would rest less, you would get more done.
Note # 2--"rest full " ( two words ) means ease or peace ( rest ) in the greatest possible measure ( full )--
He needs a long rest full of fresh air and exercise.

Monday, September 29, 2014

picturesque, picaresque

Picturesque or picturesque describes something romantic or charming, like a scene in an old painting--
They are staying in a picturesque fishing village; they sent some postcards.
The old mansion makes a picturesque setting for a wedding.

Picaresque or picaresque means like a vagabond or rogue, most commonly used to describe a novel or tale of a rogue's adventures--
His stories of his youth are often picaresque; he went around the country in an old van.
His scrapes with the law seemed picaresque to his friends, but his father was angry.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"She wrote a picaresque tale, in which the adeventures only occurred in the most picturesque of places."

Friday, September 26, 2014

discomfort, discomfit

Discomfort or discomfort means mild pain or physical annoyance, as caused by heat, cold, hunger, or thirst--
Sitting up in a chair too long causes him discomfort.
He isn't in pain, but the constant discomfort is beginning to wear on his nerves.
Discomfort may mean mental uneasiness or annoyance--
She doesn't feel discomfort in social situations, now that she's going out more.

Discomfit or discomfit means to confuse or disconcert--
He tries to discomfit the people he interviews, by asking embarassing questions.
Does he mean to discomfit people, or is he just socially inept?

Now that you know that, you can say--
"His habit of trying to discomfit everyone he spoke to caused his wife acute discomfort."

Thursday, September 25, 2014

indifferent, in different

Indifferent or indifferent ( one word ) means apathetic; having no interest or opinion--
I asked if they wanted pizza or burgers, but they seemed indifferent.
He gets excited about politics, but she is indifferent.

Indifferent may also mean neither good nor bad; unimportant or unremarkable--
That's an indifferent example. Can you think of a better one?

In different or in different ( two words ) means [ in ] several or various, or separate or distinct--
The last time I saw her she was dressed in different clothes.
Try to imagine how this would work in different situations.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He likes to eat in different restaurants, but she is indifferent."

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

two years old, two year olds

Two years old describes someone or something that has existed for 2 years--
Juinor will be two years old next week.
His phone is two years old; he wants to upgrade.

Two year olds  or two-year-olds is the plural ( more than one ) of  "two year old", meaning a child, a horse, or some other creature that has lived or existed for 2 years--
The Kentucky Derby is for two-year-olds.
This toy is recommended for two-year-olds.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"When the baby is two years old, we will be taking him to a special daycare for two-year-olds."

Note--any number might be substituted for two--
This race is for three-year-olds.
Their little girl is four years old.
Note # 2--"two year old" may describe a person or thing--
They have a two year old daughter.
Thye have a two-year-old child.
He has a two-year-old phone.
He has a two-year-old car.
Note # 3--many people prefer the dashes because the meaning is clearer. A sentence might be describing two things or persons that are a year old each--
"He has two year-old dogs." is awkward.
We would probably write--
"He has two one-year-old dogs." instead.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

happily, haply

Happily or happily describes an action done in a cheerful or happy manner--
The dog wags his tail happily when he sees us coming home.
"We're having ice cream after dinner!" he shouted happily.

Happily may also describe a fortunate or lucky occurrence or turn of events--
Happily, the concert we couldn't attend was cancelled. We'll be there when it's rescheduled.
Happily, no one noticed the error, and he had time to correct it.

Haply or haply is an old-fashioned word meaning perhaps or by chance--
"Haply I may remember, And haply may forget."
If you're visiting New York, haply you'll meet some of our long-lost relations.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Haply we'll meet again, and happily, instead of at a funeral."

Monday, September 22, 2014

traitor, trader

Traitor or traitor means a person who commits treason, or, more generally, a person who betrays a cause, or a person--
He was acquitted of the charge of treason, but to the public he remained a traitor.
He considers anyone who drives a car a traitor to the environmentalist cause.

Trader or trader means a merchant, or someone who buys and sells stock--
He has been a trader in antiques for thirty years.
He retired from his career as a trader on Wall Street, and plans to travel.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Agents caught the arms trader; we are still at war, so he will be prosecuted as a traitor."

Friday, September 19, 2014

concert, consort

Concert or concert means a musical program or performance--
We have tickets for a concert, but we can't go.
He hasn't appeared in concert in years.

Concert may describe something related to a musical program or performance--
He is studying to be a concert pianist.
Thye have renovated the old concert hall.

Concert may also mean to plan or act together, especially in the phrase "in concert"--
She suspected that they had acted in concert, but she couldn't prove it.

Consort or consort means a companion or partner--
The queen and the prince consort will visit next week.

Consort may also mean to join or associate with--
She was tempted to consort with the enemy, so she left the party and went home.

Consort may mean a group of musicians, especially those playing antique instruments--
He plays the rebec in an early modern consort.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"A medieval consort is giving a concert this evening, and we hope you'll join us."
"They worked in concert to find anyone who might consort with the underworld."

Thursday, September 18, 2014

language, languish

Language or language means the body of words and their grammatical rules, common to a set of people--
Travel is easier if you can speak the language of the country you're visiting.
He wants to study a foreign language, but he's not sure which one.

Language may also mean a style or type of communication or verbal expression--
His use of language is distinctive; I'd recognize it without a signature.
Some scientists believe that the bees have a language of their own.
Watch your language!

Languish or languish means to become weak or to droop, particularly from neglect, literally or figuratively--
She's afraid the garden will languish if she doesn't take care of it herself.
Don't let them languish for want of attention; go and talk to them.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He was unable to speak the language, and so he began to languish, socially, for want of someone to talk to."

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

memorize, mesmerize

Memorize or memorize means to learn by heart; to commit to memory--
He won't come out; he has to stay in and memorize his lines for the play.
He is trying to memorize his favorite poem.

Mesmerize or mesmerize means to hypnotize; to fascinate--
He uses the sound of a ticking clock to mesmerize his subjects.
If you stare at that design for a while, it may begin to mesmerize you.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"His friend, a psychology student, offered to mesmerize him, to help him memorize his science text."

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

meteor, meatier

Meteor or meteor means a small body traveling through space, one that has entered Earth's atmosphere and become luminous--
They sat out on the lawn until late at night, hoping to see a meteor--a shooting star.
His success came as suddenly as a meteor, but so did his fall.

Meatier or meatier is the comparative ( more than ) form of "meaty", meaning rich in meat or substance, literally or figuratively--
This stew is much meatier than the one you made last week.
He should be reading something meatier than comic books.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"His interest in the meteor inspired him to read some meatier books--science texts instead of science fiction."

Note--the phrase "mete or", means measure or allot ( mete) as one of two or more alternatives (or )--
When will they mete or distribute the food that has been collected?

Monday, September 15, 2014

aversion, a version

Aversion or aversion  (one word ) means a feeling of dislike or repugnance--
He has an aversion to water, so we always vacation in the city.
She has an aversion to dogs, and won't let the children near one.

A version or a version ( two words ) means one ( a ) form or variant of something ( version )--
He does a version of that new hit song that's even better than the record.
They are doing a version of the old play, rewritten using modern language.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"I generally have an aversion to backstage musicals, but this is a version that I enjoyed."

Friday, September 12, 2014

farther, further

Farther or farther means at a greater distance, or to a greater distance or extent, literally or figuratively--
His house is farther away than ours.
There is a rest stop a bit farther down the road.
We can't drive farther than a hundred miles unless we stop for gas first.
Look no farther! Here is a wonderful bargain!
He was right to speak his mind, but he went farther than he should have.

Further or further means additional or more--
No further remarks will be necessary.
Take no further notice of him.
No further nonsense will be tolerated.
Look no further! We found it.

Further also means to advance, or to help the progress of a project or a cause--
He spent his energy attempting to further the cause of compulsory public education.
He claims this treaty will help to further cement our friendship, but we have doubts.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"In an attempt to further his education, he went farther than necessary--he read a set of encyclopedias."

Thursday, September 11, 2014

comments, commence

Comments or comments is the plural ( more than one ) of "comment", meaning a short remark or observation--
There will be time for comments after the lecture.
The critic's comments were more interesting than the film.

Comments or comments is also the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "comment", meaning to offer a short remark or observation--
He comments on every photo she posts.
The party hasn't begun until she comments on every outfit.

Commence or commence means to begin or start--
We're here for a meeting. Let's commence.
The baby's pout means he may soon commence to cry.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We've heard enough comments, let's commence voting."

Note--"commencement" means a start or beginning--
At the commencement of the exercise, everyone should be lined up, single file.
"Commencement" also means the graduation ceremony at which diplomas are awarded--
Make sure you wear your cap and gown to the commencement ceremony.
Not to be confused with "comments meant", meaning what the short remarks or observations ( comments ) intended to express or indicate ( meant )--
He tends to be obscure; I still don't know what his comments meant.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

potpourri, popery

Potpourri or potpourri means a mix of dried flowers, herbs, or spices, used to give a pleasant scent--
She is saving the rose petals to make a potpourri.
Pine needles make a nice addition to potpourri.
Potpourri may mean a pleasant mixture, especially of literary or musical pieces--
We offer a musical potpourri for your listening pleasure.

Popery or popery is an old-fashioned term for the Roman Catholic Church, or its doctrines or ceremonies, most commonly used in a disparaging way--
He disapproves of images and statues, as they are popery, and heretical.
All this talk of saints and miracles smacks of popery, and should be forbidden!

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He dislikes potpourri; he says it seems like incense, and so it's a form of popery."

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

apprise, a prize

Apprise or apprise ( one word ) means to give notice or inform--
I'm sure that when you apprise him of the situation, he'll take steps to correct it.
Make sure to apprise the management of any malfunctions.

A prize or a prize ( two words ) means something won in a contest or lottery; a reward--
Great news! You won a prize!
He won a prize for an essay he wrote for a school competition.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"This message is to apprise you that you have won a prize in our sweepstakes."

Note--"uprise" means to swell or grow, or to rise in revolt--
Frost may cause the ground to uprise and heave out the saplings.
The peasants plan to uprise as soon as the soldiers march out of the city.

Monday, September 8, 2014

ruinous, ruin us

Ruinous or ruinous ( one word ) describes something that brings about destruction or disaster, most commonly used figuratively--
The new procedure seemed like a good idea, but the effect was ruinous.
His irresponsibility was financially ruinous; the firm went bankrupt a year after he took over.

Ruin us or ruin us ( two words ) means cause destruction or disaster ( ruin ) to the speaker and one other person ( us ), most commonly used to refer to financial, political, or professional disaster--
We had a bad year, and these new regulations may ruin us.
How could you give the press such a story? It will ruin us!

Now that you know that, you can say--
"His latest political blunder was ruinous; one more like that will ruin us completely."

Friday, September 5, 2014

resister, resistor

Resister or resister means someone who opposes or resists something, such as the draft ( military conscription )--
He was a draft resister in the 1960's, but now he's very conservative.
He was a war resister and a subversive when he was in college, so he can't get a security clearance.

Resistor or resistor means a device designed to introduce resistance into an electrical circuit--
A resistor reduces current flow and lowers voltage levels.
The dimmer switch in a lamp is made with a variable resistor.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The resistor that operates the volume control is broken; we may not be able to hear the draft resister speak."

Thursday, September 4, 2014

impede, impend

Impede or impede means to get in the way of the progress of; to obstruct or hinder--
Failure to follow the doctor's advice will impede the patient's recovery.
Bickering only serves to impede any progress toward an agreement.

Impend or impend means to be waiting or near at hand; to threaten or menace--
What lurked in the hall? Did danger impend?
Did sorrow impend? He didn't know.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"If you don't take the medicine, a relapse might impend, and that would impede your recuperation."

Note--the most commonly used form of "impend" is "impending", to describe something that threatens or menaces--
Over his head hung the shadow of impending doom.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

locket, lock it

Locket or locket means a necklace or pendant that opens to hold a photograph or a memento of some kind, such as a lock of hair--
She still wears a locket with his picture in it, although he's been dead for years.
We bought our mother a locket for her birthday, with all of our pictures in it.

Lock it or lock it means to secure or fasten something with a device, one that opens with a key or a combination--
The door is open; make sure to lock it when you go out.
When you park the car, make sure to roll the windows up and lock it.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"This guest has a gold locket; she wants us to lock it in the safe while she's out."

Note--"locked" is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago) of "lock", meaning to secure or fasten with a device that opens with a key or a combination--
I loccked the door, but I think I forgot the keys.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

grieve, greave

Grieve or grieve means to feel or express sorrow or loss, as at the death of a loved one--
We should leave now, in case the family wants to grieve in private.

Grieves or grieves is the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "grieve", meaning to feel sorrow, often used with "it" to describe something that causes sorrow--
It grieves me to know that you don't want to finish school.

Greave or greave ( rhymes with grieve ) means a part of a suit of armor, used to protect the lower part of the leg, below the knee--
The blow was aimed at his shin, but his greave protected him.

Greaves or greaves ( rhymes with grieves ) is the plural ( more than one ) of "greave", meaning a piece of a suit of armor used to protect the lower leg--
This seems to be a pair of greaves from a very old suit of armor.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The knight's widow began to grieve again when the returning soldiers brought back only her husband's greave and his helmet."
"She grieves whenever she sees that old pair of greaves. We should get rid of them."

Monday, September 1, 2014

around, a round

Around or around ( one word ) is an informal word for approximately, or in the neighborhood or area of--
I'll be back around 8 o' clock.
Don't hang around the house all day; go out and play.
He lives somewhere around 84th Street.

Around may mean to do something that has been on a list or waiting for your attention--
I'll do that when I get around to it.

Around or around also means in a circle or surrounding a center point, or to move in a circle--
We all gathered around the fire to tell stories.
A crowd gathered around, but the police stopped them before they could get close.
He turned around, and what a surprise!

Around may mean to make a detour so as to avoid; to get past a difficulty--
We got stuck in traffic, waiting get around a stalled car.
We can get around the new regulations by changing the name of our product.

Around may also mean in circumference, when measured--
The tree is about three feet around, at the base.
Use a piece of string to measure around the pole.

A round or a round ( two words ) describes something that is circular or spherical in shape--
She wants a round mirror, to use as a tray on the dresser.
Can you cut a round piece of glass to fix a window?

A round may also mean a part of a boxing match, a game of golf, or a part of some other game--
How about a round of golf?
We are going next door to play a round of bridge.
A round may mean a set of drinks, one for each person--
The man at the end of the bar wants to buy a round of drinks.

A round may mean a song sung by different persons or groups, as a sort of relay--
We could sing this as a round, to make it more interesting.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"I told them to meet us around seven, for a round of drinks and then dinner."

Friday, August 29, 2014

crochet, crotchet

Crochet or crochet is a kind of needlework done with yarn and a hook, used to make sweaters, socks, and other garments--
She learned to crochet and made a sweater.
Grandma is going to crochet some booties for the baby.

Crotchet or crotchet most commonly means an odd whim, fancy, or fit of grouchiness--
Don't leave the door open; it's a favorite crotchet of his.
Crotchet may also mean a person given to odd whims, notions, or fits of grouchiness--
Grandpa should get out more; he's turning into an old crotchet.
Crotchet also means small sharp hook, or something hook-shaped, such as a quarter note, in music--
A crotchet lasts 1/4 as long as a whole note.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"It's a crotchet of Grandma's that we take her crochet hooks and hide them."

Thursday, August 28, 2014

lays, laze

Lays or lays is the third person singular ( he, she, it ) form of "lay", meaning, when said of a thing, to place or put down, literally or figuratively--
He always lays his coat on the chair, and then forgets where he put it.
He lays his fears to rest when he hears his favorite song.

Laze or laze ( rhymes with lays ) means to idle or lounge about in a lazy way--
It's a perfect day to laze in a hammock and read.
That dog will laze by the fire all day if you don't take him out.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"On nice days, she lays an old quilt on the lawn, and the children laze the afternoon away."

Note--"lays" may also be the plural ( more than one ) of "lay", meaning a narrative song or poem--
He has been learning to play some old lays on his lute.
Note # 2--"lay's " means something belonging to a lay, meaning an old narrative poem or song--
This lay's lyrics are difficult.
"Lay's" might also be a contraction ( shortened form ) of "lay is", meaning a narrative poem or song--
This lay's hard to play!

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

come back, comeback

Come back or come back ( two words ) means return, physically, to a place, or to a former state or condition, such as popularity--
They made arrangements to come back next year.
Make sure the house is still in one piece when we come back.
He made plans to come back, even wealthier and more influential than before his fall.

Come back, said of something forgotten, may mean to return to memory--
It will all come back to you after you calm down.

Come back may also mean to retort, or to talk back--
No matter what we say to him, he feels a need to come back with a smart remark.

Comeback or comeback ( one word ) means a riposte or a witty retort--
He is always ready with a clever comeback, no matter how serious the situation.

Comeback may also describe a performance given after a long break or retirement--
The star is hoping her comeback tour will restablish her popularity.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"When I come back with the principal, try to resist the urge to offer a flippant comeback to everything he says."

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

gallon, galleon

Gallon or gallon is a unit of liquid measure, equal to four quarts--
Can you believe the price of a gallon of gas?
Don't forget to buy a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk.

Galleon or galleon means a ship; a large square-rigged wooden sailing ship--
They are hoping to find an old Spanish galleon, one that is said to have sunk nearby with all of its treasure.
He dreamed of being an explorer, and sailing in an old wooden galleon.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"If we can refurbish this old galleon, we can sail across the ocean without using even one gallon of gas."

Note--"galloon" means a kind of decorative braid, as might be used on military uniforms--
The costume was embellished with several yards of silver galloon.

Monday, August 25, 2014

undermine, under mine

Undermine or undermine ( one word ) means to weaken or destroy by digging under, literally, or through hidden or secret means, figuratively--
The general has ordered us to undermine their defenses by digging under the walls.
He sees any suggestion for change as an attempt to undermine his authority.

Under mine or under mine ( two words ) means beneath ( under ) something that belongs to me ( mine )--
I think your coat is under mine; look again.
If they're in alphabetical order, his name should be under mine.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"Put your signature under mine, so management won't see this as an attempt to undermine the new regulations."

Friday, August 22, 2014

stupid, stooped

Stupid or stupid means unintelligent, slow-witted, dull, or senseless--
You're not stupid, you just need to learn to think before you speak.
This is such a stupid movie!

Stooped or stooped is the past tense ( yesterday, or some time ago ) of "stoop", meaning to bend over, or to bend forward and down--
I must have dropped my wallet when I stooped to pick up my keys.
He nearly fell over when he stooped to pick up the package on the step.

Stooped or stooped may also describe someone who is bent over, or  bent forward and down--
They saw an old man, stooped from age, and stopped to ask if he needed help.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"I stooped to pick up a penny and dropped my purse. How stupid of me!"

Thursday, August 21, 2014

patty, paddy

Patty or patty means a flattened cake or loaf, as of ground meat or vegetables--
Form the mixture into a patty and fry it in hot oil.
Put some foil between each hamburger patty, so they won't stick.

Paddy or paddy means a rice field, or less commonly, uncut rice--
They will spend weeks harvesting the rice paddy.
She took some lovely photographs of the sun setting over a rice paddy.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"We got some rice fresh from the paddy, added eggs and flour to make a patty, and baked it in the oven."

Note--not to be confused with "Patty", a nickname for "Patricia"--
Does Patty still want to try out for the team?
Or with "Paddy", a nickname for Patrick--
How long will Paddy be staying?
Note # 2--"Patsy" is also a nickname for Patricia--
Ladies and gentlemen, Miss Patsy Cline!
Not to be confused with "patsy", meaning a dupe or scapegoat--
They are looking for a patsy to take the blame for their scam.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

oleo, olio

Oleo or oleo is an old-fashioned word for margarine or imitation butter made with lard or animal fat--
Fry the patties in a tablespoon of oleo.
Most people use margarine made from vegetable oil now, instead of oleo or oleomargarine.

Olio or olio ( rhymes with oleo ) means a stew, or a mixture in general--
Here's an old-fashioned recipe for an olio made with beef, chicken, ham, and vegetables.
She made an olio out of the leftovers, a very tasty one.
They'll be performing a musical olio, made of short pieces by different composers.

Olio may also mean a sort of sideshow performed on a theater stage--
While they're changing the set, we'll have the comics do an olio in front of the curtain.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"To make the olio, first brown the meat in a lump of oleo."

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

warn, worn

Warn or warn means to caution or alert to possible danger or harm--
The town requires that we post a sign to warn people that the road ends ahead.
The alarm will sound in time to warn the tenants of any danger.

Worn or worn ( rhymes with warn ) describes something that shows signs of use or handling--
It looks a bit worn, but it's still useful.
Your coat is starting to look worn. You should get a new one.
Worn may describe a tired-looking person--
She had a worn look on her face, and didn't seem to hear what he was saying.

Worn is also a past participle ( used with a helper verb ) of "wear", meaning to have on one's body, as clothing, etc.--
She found the jacket she had worn the night before, draped over the fence.
She was pleased to have the ring her grandmother had worn for so many years.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"I ought to warn you not to wear anything that looks worn to the interview."

Monday, August 18, 2014

an ocean, a notion

An ocean or an ocean means one ( an ) sea or large body of salt water ( ocean )--
An ocean is home to many forms of life.
An ocean may describe something related to the sea--
There's an ocean breeze, so it doesn't feel too hot.
They will be sailing to Europe on an ocean liner.

An ocean may also mean, informally,  a vast quantity of something--
"It would take an ocean of calamine lotion..."
We still have an ocean of mail to sort.

A notion or a notion means one ( a ) idea or concept ( notion )--
He had a notion that he'd like to drive there instead of flying.
I have a notion that she dislikes him.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He sent for these brochures because he had a notion that he'd like to take an ocean cruise."

Friday, August 15, 2014

perspective, prospective

Perspective or perspective means a drawing technique used to show distance, space, volume, and how they relate to one another; a technique for making a flat image appear to have 3 dimensions--
One method of perspective drawing is to orient everything to a vanishing point on the horizon.
The drawing looks odd because the perspective is faulty.

Perspective may also mean a view, as seen from a certain point--
There's an interesting perspective of the town below; you can see it from the back porch.

Perspective is used, figuratively, to mean the ability to keep all of the relevant facts and their relationships to one another in mind--
Let's discuss this later, after we've had a chance to gain some perspective.
You'll have to bear all of this in mind, in order to see the problem in perspective.

Prospective or prospective means potential, or expected in the future--
Have you met the prospective tenants? They seem nice.
John is a prospective employee. I'd like you to show him around.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"As a prospective team member, try to keep things in perspective. You may still have a fine career if you don't make the final cut."

Thursday, August 14, 2014

douse, dowse

Douse or douse means to soak with water or liquid; to throw water on--
He used the dishwater to douse the fire, and then stomped on it to extinguish it completely.
If the dog starts barking at nothing again, just douse him with a cup of water.

Dowse or dowse means to divine the location of water underground, by means of a forked stick, using special knowledge or magic--
He learned to dowse from his grandfather, who showed him how to look for water underground.
When they heard he could dowse, they hired him to tell them where to dig the well.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"He offered to dowse for them, and said that they could douse him with water from an underground spring  that very day."

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

indeterminate, undetermined

Indeterminate or indeterminate means impossible to settle or decide; not fixed, evaluated, or stipulated; having no definite end [of a jail sentence]--
We need a set of definite rules, not an indeterminate set of expectations.
We can't sign this contract because the conditions of the sale are indeterminate.
The judge has ordered an indeterminate prison sentence; he won't be released until he agrees to cooperate.

Undetermined or undetermined means not yet decided or settled; not yet established--
The cause of death was reported as undetermined, but we believe it was murder.
His fate as yet undetermined, he anxiously awaited the test results.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"The number of persons involved remains undetermined; they milled about as an indeterminate mob."

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

specks, specs

Specks or specks is the plural ( more than one ) of "speck", meaning a mote or particle--
When she saw a few specks of dust, she cleaned the whole house.
From this altitiude, even cars look like tiny specks.

Specs or specs ( rhymes with specks ) is an informal term for "specifications", meaning a detailed chart, showing or decribing how something is made or how a machine runs--
I don't think I can repair this refrigerator without the specs.
Look for the specs; they should be in an envelope or bag taped to the bottom.

Specs or specs is also a very old-fashioned slang word for "spectacles", meaning eyeglasses--
Grandpa is looking for his specs; he can't see without them.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"She found the specs for the washer when she reached behind it to wipe away some specks of soot."

Monday, August 11, 2014

shudder, shutter

Shudder or shudder means a sort of shaking or convulsive involuntary physical movement, from cold, fear, or horror--
A shudder ran through him when he heard the eerie creaking sound.
"It's cold", she said with a shudder.

Shutter or shutter means one of the two pieces of wood that closes over a window, or one of a decorative pair that doesn't close--
This shutter fell down, and now there is only one left hanging there. Can you fix it?
Just close one shutter, and we'll have some light from the open one.

Shutter or shutter may also mean the part of a camera that opens and closes, to admit light and expose the film--
You might be able to catch a picture of the dog running if you use a faster shutter speed.

Now that you know that, you can say--
"A shudder ran through me when I heard the groaning sound, but it was only the wind blowing the shutter."

Note--Not to be confused with "shut her" meaning close ( shut ) [something] belonging to a female ( her )--
Tell her to shut her mouth.
She shut her hand in the door.

Friday, August 8, 2014

crock, croc

Crock or crock means a stoneware or pottery jar, pot, or container--
There is more butter in a crock on the pantry shelf.
Make sure to save the crock the cheese came in. I want to use it as a planter.

Croc or croc ( rhymes with crock ) is an informal or familiar term for "crocodile", meaning thr animal similar to an alligator--
He never saw the croc coming. It bit him before he had time to shoot.
That's not a floating log; it's a croc!

Now that you know that, you can say--
"That old crock is full of his souvenirs, including a small croc he once caught, dried and stuffed."