Pimp my English | Easily confused words

By Anna Malczyk
English is a very complex language and words often sound similar while having two completely different meanings. Here’s a guide to four pairs of words that are easily confused.

1. Lose and loose
“Lose” is a verb that means to misplace something.
•    Did you lose your car keys?
“Loose” is an adjective that means the opposite of tight.
•    When I lost 5kg, my clothes became quite loose.
Tip: Think of the two “o”s in “loose” as pants legs – since pants can be loose or tight.

2. Alternately and alternatively
“Alternately” means swapping between one thing and another.
•    You will complete written and quiz assignments alternately.
“Alternatively” means that there is another option available.
•    You can email me the form. Alternatively, you can fax it.
Tip: Remember that “alternatively” has more letters, which indicates more options (since something that alternates only changes between two things).

3. Principal and principle
“Principal” can mean two things – a person who is in charge of a school or organisation (a noun), or that something is the first or most important out of a group of things (an adjective).
•    The principal of Rondebosch High is Mr Smith.
•    The discussion forum is the principal way to get answers to your questions.
“Principle” is a noun that means a rule or standard.
•    The principle of politeness is very important for emails.
Tip: A principal, who is a person, can be your “pal”.

4. Accept and except
“Accept” means to receive or take something on.
•    I accept this award on behalf of my brother.
“Except” means that something is excluded.
•    You can take all the books except this one.
Tip: Since “except” is a negative concept, think of the “x” as an indicator of this.

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution license.