5 of the Most Commonly Confused Words in the English Language
To sound smarter avoid mixing up these words
The English language is filled with words that look similar and sound alike. However, they mean different things. It’s easy to get confused, even if you have spoken English your entire life.
Using the wrong words at the wrong moment can make you look dumb. It’s important to not mix up words, so you look smart to others.
You can see these mistakes on resumes, corporate materials, and in major media outlets. If you are aware of the different meanings of these words, you won’t look naive in front of others.
Here are five of the most confused words in the English language:
1. Complementary and complimentary
This one is tough because the only difference is an “i” and “e” after “compl” in the word. The difference of vowels is very important. It changes the meaning of the word.
Complementary with an “e” means that when you combine things together, they enhance each other. For example, here’s a sentence: Milk is complementary to cereal.
Complimentary with an “i” means that things are free, or it could mean you praise someone. For example, here’s a sentence to discuss the meaning of free: This meal is complimentary because it took so long to be served to you. Here’s an example of using in the praise context: Jack was very complimentary of Jill’s personality.
To remember the difference, focus on one that you will remember the most. Most people like free things, so it’s easier to remember complimentary with an “i” instead of an “e” in the word.
2. Eminent and imminent
Eminent means distinguished or standing out from the crowd. For example, Jim is eminent as a world-renowned athlete and keynote speaker.
Imminent means that something is about to happen. For example, the birth of her child was imminent because she is two weeks overdue.
These two words sound the same, but they are unrelated. Eminent is more commonly used, so it may help you remember that one over the word imminent.
