Accept
Accept means to willingly receive something or agree that it is true or allowed.
In a sentence Lena smiled and accepted the handmade card.
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Search for a word or open any pair or group below. Dictionary links lead to more examples and learning activities.
accept / except
Commonly confused words
Accept or except?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Except
Except usually means not including someone or something.
In a sentence Every marker worked except the green one.
Spot the difference Accept is a verb meaning receive or agree; except usually means not including. Their first vowel sounds can be similar in quick speech, so use the sentence meaning to choose.
Which word fits?
Choose accept or except for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Will you ___ a place on our reading team?
Check answer 1
accept — Accept means say yes to the offer of a place on the team.
2All the paper shapes are blue ___ the yellow triangle.
Check answer 2
except — Except leaves the yellow triangle out of the group of blue shapes.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with acceptaffect / effect
Commonly confused words
Affect or effect?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Affect
Affect usually means to influence or change someone or something.
In a sentence A late bedtime can affect your focus the next day.
Effect
Effect usually means a result or change caused by something else.
In a sentence One effect of regular practice was faster reading.
Spot the difference Affect is usually a verb and effect is usually a noun. The less common noun affect is a psychology term pronounced AF-ekt, and the formal verb affect can mean pretend.
Which word fits?
Choose affect or effect for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Moving the lamp can ___ how clearly we see the drawing.
Check answer 1
affect — Affect is the verb here: moving the lamp can change how clearly we see.
2One ___ of moving the lamp was a brighter drawing.
Check answer 2
effect — Effect is a noun here: the brighter drawing is a result of moving the lamp.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with affectbreath / breathe
Commonly confused words
Breath or breathe?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Breath
Breath is the air you take into or send out of your lungs.
In a sentence Take a slow breath before you read the next line.
Breathe
Breathe means to take air into your lungs and send it out again.
In a sentence Breathe in slowly, then breathe out.
Spot the difference Breath is a noun; breathe is a verb. The final e in breathe changes both the word's job and its ending sound.
Which word fits?
Choose breath or breathe for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Before her turn to speak, Nia took a quiet ___.
Check answer 1
breath — Breath names the air taken in. The sentence needs a noun after a quiet.
2The actor paused to ___ between long lines.
Check answer 2
breathe — Breathe names the action of taking air in and sending it out. The sentence needs a verb after to.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with breathloose / lose
Commonly confused words
Loose or lose?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Loose
Loose usually means not tight, fixed, or contained.
In a sentence One loose button hung from the jacket.
Lose
Lose means to no longer have something, be unable to find it, or fail to win.
In a sentence Use the case so you do not lose your glasses.
Spot the difference Loose usually describes a condition; lose is the verb for misplacing, no longer having, or not winning. The uncommon verb loose means release, but loosen is usually clearer for making something less tight.
Which word fits?
Choose loose or lose for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The ___ lid rattled on the empty box.
Check answer 1
loose — Loose describes the lid: it was not firmly attached.
2Put your library card in its pocket so you do not ___ it.
Check answer 2
lose — Lose is the action word for being unable to find or keep the card.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with looseprincipal / principle
Commonly confused words
Principal or principle?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Principal
A school leader; also, most important.
In a sentence The principal welcomed the new pupils.
Principle
A basic rule, truth, or belief.
In a sentence Fairness is an important principle in our club.
Spot the difference Principal has several meanings, including a school leader and main. Principle means a rule or belief.
Which word fits?
Choose principal or principle for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Our school ___ spoke at the assembly.
Check answer 1
principal — The sentence names the school leader.
2Sharing fairly is a ___ we try to follow.
Check answer 2
principle — The sentence names a guiding belief, not a person.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with principalcompliment / complement
Commonly confused words
Compliment or complement?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Compliment
Praise, or the act of giving praise.
In a sentence Her kind compliment made me smile.
Complement
Something that completes or goes well with something else.
In a sentence The scarf is a bright complement to the coat.
Spot the difference A compliment is praise. A complement completes something or goes well with it.
Which word fits?
Choose compliment or complement for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Your painting is beautiful! That was a lovely ___.
Check answer 1
compliment — The kind words give praise.
2The crunchy topping is a perfect ___ to the smooth soup.
Check answer 2
complement — The topping goes well with the soup; it does not praise it.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with complimenttheir / there / they're
Commonly confused words
Their, there, or they're?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Their
Belonging to them.
In a sentence The children put on their coats.
There
In that place; also used to say something exists.
In a sentence Leave the bag over there.
They'Re
A short form of they are.
In a sentence They're making paper stars.
Spot the difference Their shows belonging, there points to a place or introduces something, and they're means they are.
Which word fits?
Choose their, there, or they're for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The twins packed ___ lunches before school.
Check answer 1
their — The lunches belong to the twins.
2Please put the basket over ___ beside the door.
Check answer 2
there — The sentence points to a place.
3Look at the runners: ___ ready to start!
Check answer 3
they're — They are ready to start fits the sentence.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with theiryour / you're
Commonly confused words
Your or you're?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Your
Belonging to you.
In a sentence Is this your pencil?
You'Re
A short form of you are.
In a sentence You're a thoughtful friend.
Spot the difference Your shows belonging. You're means you are.
Which word fits?
Choose your or you're for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please write ___ name on the label.
Check answer 1
your — The name belongs to the person being addressed.
2I think ___ ready for the next puzzle.
Check answer 2
you're — You are ready fits the sentence.
Make it your ownWrite your own sentence using each word.
its / it's
Commonly confused words
Its or it's?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Its
Belonging to it.
In a sentence The bird spread its wings.
It'S
A short form of it is or it has.
In a sentence It's time for our walk.
Spot the difference Its shows belonging without an apostrophe. It's means it is or it has.
Which word fits?
Choose its or it's for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The robot lifted ___ small metal arm.
Check answer 1
its — The arm belongs to the robot.
2Look outside; ___ a sunny afternoon.
Check answer 2
it's — It is a sunny afternoon fits the sentence.
Make it your ownWrite your own sentence using each word.
to / too / two
Commonly confused words
To, too, or two?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
To
Used for direction, a destination, or before a verb.
In a sentence We walked to the gate.
Too
Also, or more than wanted.
In a sentence This bag is too heavy for me.
Two
The number 2.
In a sentence I found two matching socks.
Spot the difference To can show direction or come before a verb. Too means also or more than wanted. Two is the number 2.
Which word fits?
Choose to, too, or two for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please carry the book ___ the desk.
Check answer 1
to — To introduces the destination.
2That box is ___ wide to fit on the shelf.
Check answer 2
too — Too means wider than the available space allows.
3A bicycle has ___ wheels.
Check answer 3
two — The blank needs the number of wheels.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with twoadvice / advise
Commonly confused words
Advice or advise?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Advice
Guidance or a suggestion about what to do.
In a sentence The coach gave helpful advice.
Advise
To give guidance or suggest what to do.
In a sentence Teachers advise learners to check their work.
Spot the difference Advice is a noun for guidance. Advise is a verb for giving guidance.
Which word fits?
Choose advice or advise for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1May I ask for your ___ about this project?
Check answer 1
advice — The sentence asks for guidance, a thing.
2What would you ___ me to read next?
Check answer 2
advise — The sentence asks someone to give guidance, an action.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with adviceweather / whether
Commonly confused words
Weather or whether?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Weather
Conditions such as sunshine, wind, rain, and temperature.
In a sentence The weather changed from sunny to rainy.
Whether
Used to introduce possibilities or choices.
In a sentence We discussed whether to walk or cycle.
Spot the difference Weather concerns atmospheric conditions. Whether introduces possibilities or alternatives.
Which word fits?
Choose weather or whether for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Strong winds made the ___ unpleasant for a picnic.
Check answer 1
weather — Wind is a weather condition.
2I cannot decide ___ to draw a fox or a rabbit.
Check answer 2
whether — The sentence introduces two possible choices.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with weatherhear / here
Commonly confused words
Hear or here?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Hear
To notice a sound with your ears.
In a sentence I can hear the clock ticking.
Here
In or at this place.
In a sentence We will wait here by the sign.
Spot the difference Hear concerns sound. Here means in this place.
Which word fits?
Choose hear or here for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Can you ___ the bells from this room?
Check answer 1
hear — The sentence asks about noticing a sound.
2Come and sit ___ beside me.
Check answer 2
here — The sentence points to the speaker's place.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with hearaloud / allowed
Commonly confused words
Aloud or allowed?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Aloud
Using a voice that can be heard.
In a sentence Maya read the poem aloud.
Allowed
Permitted to do something.
In a sentence We are allowed to borrow three books.
Spot the difference Aloud means with a voice others can hear. Allowed means permitted.
Which word fits?
Choose aloud or allowed for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please say your answer ___ so the group can hear.
Check answer 1
aloud — The sentence asks for an audible answer.
2Are visitors ___ to use this entrance?
Check answer 2
allowed — The sentence asks about permission.
Make it your ownWrite your own sentence using each word.
passed / past
Commonly confused words
Passed or past?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Passed
Went by, handed something over, or succeeded in a test.
In a sentence The bus passed our stop.
Past
Earlier time, or beyond a place or point.
In a sentence We walked past the fountain.
Spot the difference Passed is the past form of pass. Past can mean earlier time or beyond a point.
Which word fits?
Choose passed or past for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Yesterday, Leo ___ the ball to his teammate.
Check answer 1
passed — The sentence needs the past-tense action of handing the ball on.
2The path leads ___ the pond and into the woods.
Check answer 2
past — Past tells where the path leads, beyond the pond.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with pastwhose / who's
Commonly confused words
Whose or who's?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Whose
Belonging to which person.
In a sentence Whose coat is on the chair?
Who'S
A short form of who is or who has.
In a sentence Who's joining our team?
Spot the difference Whose asks or tells who something belongs to. Who's means who is or who has.
Which word fits?
Choose whose or who's for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1___ notebook did we find under the table?
Check answer 1
whose — The question asks who owns the notebook.
2___ ready to tell a story?
Check answer 2
who's — Who is ready fits the question.
Make it your ownWrite your own sentence using each word.
wander / wonder
Commonly confused words
Wander or wonder?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Wander
To move around without a fixed route.
In a sentence We wander along the garden paths.
Wonder
To feel curious or ask yourself about something.
In a sentence I wonder how the clock works.
Spot the difference Wander concerns moving without a fixed route. Wonder concerns curiosity or amazement.
Which word fits?
Choose wander or wonder for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Do not ___ away from the group during the visit.
Check answer 1
wander — The sentence concerns moving away.
2I ___ why the moon looks different tonight.
Check answer 2
wonder — The sentence expresses curiosity.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with wandervary / very
Commonly confused words
Vary or very?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Vary
To differ or change.
In a sentence The leaf shapes vary between trees.
Very
To a high degree.
In a sentence The kitten was very playful.
Spot the difference Vary is a verb meaning differ or change. Very strengthens a description.
Which word fits?
Choose vary or very for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The puzzle sizes ___ from small to large.
Check answer 1
vary — The sizes differ.
2That tower is ___ tall.
Check answer 2
very — Very strengthens the description tall.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with varybegin / being
Commonly confused words
Begin or being?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Begin
To start.
In a sentence We begin practice at noon.
Being
Existing or acting in a certain way; also a living creature.
In a sentence Thank you for being patient.
Spot the difference Begin means start. Being is a form of be and can also name a living creature.
Which word fits?
Choose begin or being for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please ___ reading at the top of the page.
Check answer 1
begin — The sentence asks someone to start.
2Thank you for ___ so helpful today.
Check answer 2
being — After for, being describes how someone is acting.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with beginmorning / mourning
Commonly confused words
Morning or mourning?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Morning
The early part of the day, before noon.
In a sentence We eat breakfast in the morning.
Mourning
Sadness and remembrance after a loss, especially a death.
In a sentence The family was mourning their grandfather.
Spot the difference Morning is a time of day. Mourning is sadness after a loss, especially a death.
Which word fits?
Choose morning or mourning for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Tomorrow ___ we will watch the sunrise.
Check answer 1
morning — Sunrise happens in the morning.
2The community was ___ the loss of a beloved neighbour.
Check answer 2
mourning — The sentence concerns sadness after a loss, not a time of day.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with morningpeace / piece
Commonly confused words
Peace or piece?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Peace
Calm, or freedom from fighting.
In a sentence The agreement brought peace.
Piece
A part or portion of something.
In a sentence Take a piece of paper.
Spot the difference Peace concerns calm or freedom from conflict. Piece means a part of something.
Which word fits?
Choose peace or piece for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The two groups worked together to restore ___.
Check answer 1
peace — The sentence concerns ending conflict.
2One ___ of the jigsaw is still missing.
Check answer 2
piece — The sentence names a part of the puzzle.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with peaceplain / plane
Commonly confused words
Plain or plane?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Plain
Simple or undecorated; also obvious or a broad flat area of land.
In a sentence She chose a plain notebook.
Plane
An aircraft; also a flat surface in geometry.
In a sentence The plane flew above the clouds.
Spot the difference Plain can mean simple or obvious, or a broad area of flat land. Plane can mean an aircraft or a flat surface.
Which word fits?
Choose plain or plane for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Use ___ paper with no lines or pictures.
Check answer 1
plain — The paper is undecorated.
2The pilot landed the ___ safely.
Check answer 2
plane — The sentence names an aircraft.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with plainbrake / break
Commonly confused words
Brake or break?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Brake
A device for slowing or stopping a vehicle; to use it.
In a sentence The mechanic checked the brake.
Break
To damage or separate something; also a pause.
In a sentence Let us take a short break.
Spot the difference Brake means a device or action for slowing a vehicle. Break means damage, separate, or pause.
Which word fits?
Choose brake or break for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Press the ___ gently to slow the bicycle.
Check answer 1
brake — The sentence names the slowing device.
2Be careful not to ___ the glass jar.
Check answer 2
break — The sentence concerns damaging the jar.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with brakeflower / flour
Commonly confused words
Flower or flour?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Flower
The bloom of a plant.
In a sentence A purple flower opened in the garden.
Flour
A powder made by grinding grain or another food, often used in baking.
In a sentence We measured flour into a bowl.
Spot the difference Flower names the bloom of a plant. Flour is a ground ingredient used in baking.
Which word fits?
Choose flower or flour for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1A bee landed on the yellow ___.
Check answer 1
flower — The bee landed on a plant bloom.
2The bread recipe needs three cups of ___.
Check answer 2
flour — The recipe needs a baking ingredient.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with flourwhole / hole
Commonly confused words
Whole or hole?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Whole
Complete, with no part missing.
In a sentence We read the whole story.
Hole
An opening or hollow space.
In a sentence There is a hole in my sock.
Spot the difference Whole means complete. Hole means an opening or hollow space.
Which word fits?
Choose whole or hole for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The ___ class joined the song, with nobody left out.
Check answer 1
whole — The sentence includes every member of the class.
2The rabbit disappeared into a ___ in the ground.
Check answer 2
hole — The sentence names an opening.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with wholeweak / week
Commonly confused words
Weak or week?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Weak
Lacking strength or power.
In a sentence The radio signal was weak.
Week
A period of seven days.
In a sentence We visit the library each week.
Spot the difference Weak means lacking strength. Week is a period of seven days.
Which word fits?
Choose weak or week for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The ___ string snapped when we pulled it.
Check answer 1
weak — The string lacked strength.
2There are seven days in a ___.
Check answer 2
week — The sentence names a period of time.
Make it your ownWrite your own sentence using each word.
right / write / rite
Commonly confused words
Right, write, or rite?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Right
Correct; also the direction opposite left.
In a sentence You chose the right answer.
Write
To form letters or words.
In a sentence I write in my journal.
Rite
A ceremony or customary act.
In a sentence The ceremony included a traditional rite.
Spot the difference Right can mean correct or a direction. Write means form words. Rite means a ceremony or customary act.
Which word fits?
Choose right, write, or rite for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Check whether your answer is ___ or wrong.
Check answer 1
right — Right contrasts with wrong here.
2Please ___ a title at the top of the page.
Check answer 2
write — The sentence asks someone to form words.
3The community performed an old ___ during the ceremony.
Check answer 3
rite — The sentence names a ceremonial act.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with rightknew / new
Commonly confused words
Knew or new?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Knew
Had knowledge of something in the past.
In a sentence I knew the answer yesterday.
New
Recent, or not previously used or known.
In a sentence We opened a new box of crayons.
Spot the difference Knew is the past form of know. New means recent or not previously used.
Which word fits?
Choose knew or new for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Last year, I already ___ how to tie that knot.
Check answer 1
knew — The sentence describes past knowledge.
2These ___ shoes have never been worn.
Check answer 2
new — The shoes have not been used before.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with newknow / no
Commonly confused words
Know or no?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Know
To have knowledge or be familiar with something.
In a sentence Do you know the way home?
No
A negative answer, or not any.
In a sentence There are no apples left.
Spot the difference Know means have knowledge. No expresses a negative answer or the absence of something.
Which word fits?
Choose know or no for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1I ___ the answer to this riddle.
Check answer 1
know — The sentence concerns knowledge.
2There are ___ cookies left in the empty tin.
Check answer 2
no — The empty tin contains none.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with knowmeet / meat
Commonly confused words
Meet or meat?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Meet
To come together or encounter someone.
In a sentence Let us meet at the gate.
Meat
Animal flesh used as food.
In a sentence The shop sells meat and vegetables.
Spot the difference Meet means come together or encounter someone. Meat is animal flesh used as food.
Which word fits?
Choose meet or meat for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1We will ___ our friends outside the museum.
Check answer 1
meet — The sentence concerns coming together.
2Chicken is a kind of ___.
Check answer 2
meat — The sentence names a kind of food.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with meetpair / pear / pare
Commonly confused words
Pair, pear, or pare?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Pair
Two things considered together.
In a sentence I found a pair of gloves.
Pear
A fruit that is often wider at the bottom than at the top.
In a sentence The ripe pear was juicy.
Pare
To trim or peel away an outer part.
In a sentence The cook will pare the apple.
Spot the difference Pair means two things together. Pear is a fruit. Pare means trim or peel.
Which word fits?
Choose pair, pear, or pare for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1These two matching socks make a ___.
Check answer 1
pair — The sentence groups two matching things.
2The fruit salad contains apple and ___.
Check answer 2
pear — The sentence needs the name of a fruit.
3The cook used a peeler to ___ the skin from the fruit.
Check answer 3
pare — The sentence describes removing an outer layer.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with pairbare / bear
Commonly confused words
Bare or bear?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Bare
Uncovered or without the usual covering.
In a sentence The tree had bare branches.
Bear
A large furry mammal; also to carry or tolerate something.
In a sentence A bear searched for berries.
Spot the difference Bare means uncovered. Bear names an animal and can also mean carry or tolerate.
Which word fits?
Choose bare or bear for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The empty room had ___ walls with no pictures.
Check answer 1
bare — The walls are uncovered.
2The brown ___ walked through the forest.
Check answer 2
bear — The sentence names an animal.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with bareboard / bored
Commonly confused words
Board or bored?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Board
A flat piece of material; also to get onto a vehicle.
In a sentence We wrote the score on the board.
Bored
Feeling uninterested or having nothing engaging to do.
In a sentence I felt bored during the long wait.
Spot the difference Board can name a flat piece of material or mean get onto a vehicle. Bored means not interested.
Which word fits?
Choose board or bored for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please ___ the train when the doors open.
Check answer 1
board — The sentence means get onto a vehicle.
2She felt ___ until she found a puzzle to solve.
Check answer 2
bored — The sentence describes a lack of interest.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with boardwaist / waste
Commonly confused words
Waist or waste?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Waist
The middle part of the body between the ribs and hips.
In a sentence The belt fits around my waist.
Waste
To use carelessly; also unwanted material.
In a sentence Do not waste paper.
Spot the difference Waist names the middle of the body. Waste means use carelessly or unwanted material.
Which word fits?
Choose waist or waste for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Tie the apron around your ___.
Check answer 1
waist — The sentence names a body area.
2Turn off the tap so we do not ___ water.
Check answer 2
waste — The sentence concerns careless use.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with wastestationary / stationery
Commonly confused words
Stationary or stationery?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Stationary
Not moving.
In a sentence The bicycle stayed stationary on its stand.
Stationery
Writing materials such as paper and envelopes.
In a sentence The shop sells colourful stationery.
Spot the difference Stationary means not moving. Stationery means writing materials.
Which word fits?
Choose stationary or stationery for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The parked bus remained ___ until noon.
Check answer 1
stationary — The bus did not move.
2Paper and envelopes are types of ___.
Check answer 2
stationery — The sentence names writing materials.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with stationerydesert / dessert
Commonly confused words
Desert or dessert?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Desert
A very dry region; as a verb, to abandon.
In a sentence Some cacti grow in the desert.
Dessert
A sweet course often served after the main meal.
In a sentence We had fruit for dessert.
Spot the difference Desert can name a dry region or mean abandon. Dessert is a sweet course of food.
Which word fits?
Choose desert or dessert for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The camel crossed the sandy ___.
Check answer 1
desert — The sentence names a dry region.
2After dinner, we shared a pudding for ___.
Check answer 2
dessert — The sentence names the sweet course.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with desertlater / latter
Commonly confused words
Later or latter?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Later
At a time after now or another time.
In a sentence We can finish the drawing later.
Latter
The second of two things mentioned.
In a sentence Of tea and juice, I prefer the latter.
Spot the difference Later concerns a time after now or another time. Latter refers to the second of two things mentioned.
Which word fits?
Choose later or latter for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1I will call you ___ this afternoon.
Check answer 1
later — The sentence concerns a future time.
2Of the red and blue pens, the ___ is blue.
Check answer 2
latter — Blue is the second of the two pens mentioned.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with laterchoose / chose
Commonly confused words
Choose or chose?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Choose
To select from possibilities.
In a sentence Please choose a seat.
Chose
Selected from possibilities in the past.
In a sentence Yesterday I chose the green ribbon.
Spot the difference Choose is the present form. Chose is the past form.
Which word fits?
Choose choose or chose for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Tomorrow you may ___ a book to borrow.
Check answer 1
choose — After may, use the base form choose.
2Last night, we ___ a story about a fox.
Check answer 2
chose — The action happened in the past.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with choosesight / site / cite
Commonly confused words
Sight, site, or cite?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Sight
The ability to see, or something seen.
In a sentence The rainbow was a lovely sight.
Site
A place where something is or happens.
In a sentence This is the site of the old mill.
Cite
To name a source or example as support.
In a sentence Please cite the book you used.
Spot the difference Sight concerns seeing. Site means a place. Cite means name a source or example.
Which word fits?
Choose sight, site, or cite for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The tall fence blocked our ___ of the garden.
Check answer 1
sight — The sentence concerns seeing the garden.
2The builders marked the ___ for the new library.
Check answer 2
site — The sentence names a place.
3In your report, ___ the source of that fact.
Check answer 3
cite — The sentence asks for a source to be named.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with sightaisle / isle
Commonly confused words
Aisle or isle?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Aisle
A passage between rows of seats or shelves.
In a sentence Walk along the aisle to your seat.
Isle
An island, especially in a name or literary description.
In a sentence The small isle lay beyond the bay.
Spot the difference Aisle is a passage between rows. Isle is an island.
Which word fits?
Choose aisle or isle for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The usher showed us down the ___ between the seats.
Check answer 1
aisle — The sentence names a passage between rows.
2Water surrounded the little ___ on every side.
Check answer 2
isle — The sentence names an island.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with aislealtar / alter
Commonly confused words
Altar or alter?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Altar
A table or raised place used in religious worship.
In a sentence Flowers stood near the altar.
Alter
To change something.
In a sentence We can alter the design.
Spot the difference Altar is a table or raised place used in worship. Alter means change.
Which word fits?
Choose altar or alter for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The candles were placed on the ___ in the church.
Check answer 1
altar — The sentence names a place used in worship.
2Please ___ the plan to include a lunch break.
Check answer 2
alter — The sentence asks for a change.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with altercapital / capitol
Commonly confused words
Capital or capitol?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Capital
A main city of a country or region; also an uppercase letter or resources such as money.
In a sentence Ottawa is the capital of Canada.
Capitol
A building where a legislature meets, especially in the United States.
In a sentence The visitors toured the state capitol.
Spot the difference Capital has several meanings, including a main city and an uppercase letter. Capitol names a legislative building, especially in the United States.
Which word fits?
Choose capital or capitol for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Begin the sentence with a ___ letter.
Check answer 1
capital — The sentence means an uppercase letter.
2The state lawmakers met inside the ___ building.
Check answer 2
capitol — The sentence names a legislative building.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with capitalcalendar / calender
Commonly confused words
Calendar or calender?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Calendar
A chart or system of days, weeks, and months.
In a sentence Mark the trip on the calendar.
Calender
A machine with rollers used to press paper or fabric.
In a sentence The factory used a calender to smooth the paper.
Spot the difference Calendar concerns dates. Calender is a machine with rollers used to press materials.
Which word fits?
Choose calendar or calender for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Find the date of the concert on the ___.
Check answer 1
calendar — The sentence asks for a chart of dates.
2The paper went between the rollers of the ___.
Check answer 2
calender — The sentence names the pressing machine.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with calendaruninterested / uninteresting
Commonly confused words
Uninterested or uninteresting?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Uninterested
Not interested in something.
In a sentence I was uninterested in that topic.
Uninteresting
Not holding someone's interest.
In a sentence The repeated list seemed uninteresting.
Spot the difference Uninterested describes someone who is not interested. Uninteresting describes something that does not hold interest.
Which word fits?
Choose uninterested or uninteresting for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The child seemed ___ in the talk and looked away.
Check answer 1
uninterested — The sentence describes the child's lack of interest.
2The speaker made an ___ topic exciting with a story.
Check answer 2
uninteresting — The sentence describes the topic, not a person's feelings.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with uninteresteduniversity / universe
Commonly confused words
University or universe?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
University
An institution for higher education and research.
In a sentence My aunt studies at a university.
Universe
All of space and everything in it.
In a sentence Stars and galaxies are part of the universe.
Spot the difference University is a place of higher education. Universe means everything in space and time.
Which word fits?
Choose university or universe for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The ___ offers courses in art and science.
Check answer 1
university — The sentence names an educational institution.
2Astronomers study the stars and galaxies in the ___.
Check answer 2
universe — The sentence concerns everything in space.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with universitylesson / lessen
Commonly confused words
Lesson or lessen?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Lesson
A period of teaching or something learned.
In a sentence Our music lesson starts at ten.
Lessen
To make or become smaller in amount or degree.
In a sentence The noise began to lessen.
Spot the difference Lesson is something taught or learned. Lessen means make or become smaller.
Which word fits?
Choose lesson or lessen for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Today's maths ___ is about shapes.
Check answer 1
lesson — The sentence names a period of learning.
2Closing the window will ___ the noise.
Check answer 2
lessen — The sentence means reduce the noise.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with lessonpersonal / personnel
Commonly confused words
Personal or personnel?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Personal
Belonging or relating to an individual person.
In a sentence This is my personal notebook.
Personnel
The people who work for an organization.
In a sentence The airport personnel helped the travellers.
Spot the difference Personal concerns a particular person. Personnel means the people working for an organization.
Which word fits?
Choose personal or personnel for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please keep your ___ belongings in your bag.
Check answer 1
personal — The belongings belong to an individual.
2Only trained ___ may enter the staff room.
Check answer 2
personnel — The sentence refers to staff members.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with personalpatience / patients
Commonly confused words
Patience or patients?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Patience
The ability to wait or face difficulty calmly.
In a sentence Growing a garden takes patience.
Patients
People receiving medical care.
In a sentence The nurse greeted the patients.
Spot the difference Patience is the ability to wait calmly. Patients are people receiving medical care.
Which word fits?
Choose patience or patients for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Thank you for your ___ during the long wait.
Check answer 1
patience — The sentence names a calm way of waiting.
2The doctor spoke to three ___ this morning.
Check answer 2
patients — The sentence names people receiving care.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with patiencecoarse / course
Commonly confused words
Coarse or course?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Coarse
Rough or made of large particles.
In a sentence The coarse sand felt rough.
Course
A route, a series of lessons, or a part of a meal.
In a sentence We followed the course of the river.
Spot the difference Coarse means rough or not fine. Course can mean a route, a class, or a part of a meal.
Which word fits?
Choose coarse or course for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The ___ fabric scratched against my hand.
Check answer 1
coarse — The sentence describes a rough texture.
2She enrolled in a painting ___ at the art centre.
Check answer 2
course — The sentence names a series of lessons.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with coarseprecede / proceed
Commonly confused words
Precede or proceed?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Precede
To come before in time or order.
In a sentence The introductions precede the performance.
Proceed
To continue or move forward.
In a sentence When the path is clear, we can proceed.
Spot the difference Precede means come before. Proceed means continue or go forward.
Which word fits?
Choose precede or proceed for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1In this programme, the songs ___ the final speech.
Check answer 1
precede — The songs come before the speech.
2After the pause, we may ___ with the game.
Check answer 2
proceed — The sentence means continue with the game.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with precedeidle / idol
Commonly confused words
Idle or idol?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Idle
Not working, active, or in use.
In a sentence The machine stood idle.
Idol
A person greatly admired; also an image or object of worship.
In a sentence The singer was her musical idol.
Spot the difference Idle means not active or in use. Idol names someone greatly admired or an object of worship.
Which word fits?
Choose idle or idol for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The unused printer remained ___ all day.
Check answer 1
idle — The sentence describes a printer not being used.
2The young fan called the football star his ___.
Check answer 2
idol — The sentence names someone greatly admired.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with idlesteal / steel
Commonly confused words
Steal or steel?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Steal
To take something without permission or a right to it.
In a sentence It is wrong to steal another person's belongings.
Steel
A strong alloy made mainly from iron and carbon.
In a sentence The bridge has steel beams.
Spot the difference Steal means take without permission. Steel is a strong metal alloy.
Which word fits?
Choose steal or steel for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The story's villain tried to ___ the treasure.
Check answer 1
steal — The sentence describes taking without permission.
2The builder used a strong ___ beam.
Check answer 2
steel — The sentence names a material.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with stealrole / roll
Commonly confused words
Role or roll?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Role
A part played by someone or a purpose something serves.
In a sentence I have a small role in the play.
Roll
To move by turning over; also a rolled object or small bread.
In a sentence Watch the ball roll down the slope.
Spot the difference Role means a part or purpose. Roll means turn over, or names something rolled up or a small bread.
Which word fits?
Choose role or roll for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1What ___ will you play in our show?
Check answer 1
role — The sentence asks about a part in a performance.
2Please ___ the poster into a tube.
Check answer 2
roll — The sentence asks for a turning and wrapping action.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with roletail / tale
Commonly confused words
Tail or tale?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Tail
A rear body part of many animals, or the end of something.
In a sentence The dog wagged its tail.
Tale
A story.
In a sentence Grandad told a funny tale.
Spot the difference Tail is a rear body part or end. Tale is a story.
Which word fits?
Choose tail or tale for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The fox had a bushy ___.
Check answer 1
tail — The sentence names an animal body part.
2The book contains a ___ about a clever mouse.
Check answer 2
tale — The sentence names a story.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with tailsail / sale
Commonly confused words
Sail or sale?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Sail
A sheet of material that catches wind on a boat; to travel by boat.
In a sentence The wind filled the sail.
Sale
The act of selling, or a period of reduced prices.
In a sentence The shop has a sale this week.
Spot the difference Sail is a sheet that catches wind on a boat, or travelling by boat. Sale concerns selling.
Which word fits?
Choose sail or sale for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Raise the ___ so the wind can move our boat.
Check answer 1
sail — The sentence names the wind-catching part.
2Those books are for ___, not for borrowing.
Check answer 2
sale — The sentence says the books can be bought.
Make it your ownWrite your own sentence using each word.
mail / male
Commonly confused words
Mail or male?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Letters and parcels sent to someone; to send them.
In a sentence The mail arrived at noon.
Male
Of the sex that produces sperm; used of people and animals.
In a sentence A rooster is a male chicken.
Spot the difference Mail means letters and parcels, or sending them. Male describes sex, such as a male animal.
Which word fits?
Choose mail or male for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The delivery worker brought our ___.
Check answer 1
mail — The sentence names delivered letters and parcels.
2A rooster is a ___ bird.
Check answer 2
male — The sentence describes the bird's sex.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with mailrain / reign / rein
Commonly confused words
Rain, reign, or rein?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Rain
Drops of water falling from clouds.
In a sentence The rain watered our garden.
Reign
The period or act of ruling as a monarch.
In a sentence The queen's reign lasted many years.
Rein
A strap used to guide a horse; also a way of limiting control.
In a sentence The rider held a rein in each hand.
Spot the difference Rain is water falling from clouds. Reign is the rule of a monarch. Rein is a strap used to guide a horse or a limit on something.
Which word fits?
Choose rain, reign, or rein for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Dark clouds brought heavy ___ this afternoon.
Check answer 1
rain — The sentence concerns falling water.
2The king built the castle during his ___.
Check answer 2
reign — The sentence names his time as ruler.
3The rider gently pulled the left ___ to guide the horse.
Check answer 3
rein — The sentence names a guiding strap.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with rainallusion / illusion
Commonly confused words
Allusion or illusion?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Allusion
A brief reference to another person, event, work, or idea.
In a sentence The title is an allusion to an ancient myth.
Illusion
A false belief or an appearance that misleads.
In a sentence The mirror created the illusion of extra space.
Spot the difference An allusion is a reference to something else. An illusion is a false belief or misleading appearance.
Which word fits?
Choose allusion or illusion for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The poem includes an ___ to a famous fairy tale.
Check answer 1
allusion — The poem points toward another story, so allusion is correct.
2Painted shadows created the ___ of a deep tunnel.
Check answer 2
illusion — The painting makes the tunnel seem real, so illusion is correct.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with allusionfarther / further
Commonly confused words
Farther or further?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Farther
At, to, or describing a greater distance or more advanced point.
In a sentence The next bridge is farther down the path.
Further
More distant, additional, to a greater degree, or to help advance.
In a sentence We need further evidence before deciding.
Spot the difference Both words can express greater distance. Further also commonly means additional, to a greater degree, or to help something advance.
Which word fits?
Choose farther or further for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The second station is ___ from our house.
Check answer 1
farther — Farther is a clear choice for comparing physical distance, although further is also established in distance uses.
2Please ask if you need ___ help.
Check answer 2
further — Further means additional here; farther does not normally have this meaning.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with fartherimply / infer
Commonly confused words
Imply or infer?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Imply
To communicate indirectly or make a result likely or necessary.
In a sentence The dark clouds imply that rain may be coming.
Infer
To reach a conclusion from facts or clues.
In a sentence We inferred from the dark clouds that rain was coming.
Spot the difference Imply describes putting or carrying a suggestion in a message, action, or fact. Infer describes drawing a conclusion from that evidence.
Which word fits?
Choose imply or infer for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Her pause seemed to ___ that she was uncertain.
Check answer 1
imply — The pause carries an indirect suggestion.
2From her pause, we can ___ that she may be uncertain.
Check answer 2
infer — We draw a conclusion from the pause as evidence.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with implyhistoric / historical
Commonly confused words
Historic or historical?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Historic
Important in history or likely to be remembered.
In a sentence The agreement was a historic turning point.
Historical
Connected with the past, history, or its study.
In a sentence The archive stores historical records.
Spot the difference Historic usually emphasizes lasting importance. Historical identifies a connection with the past, history, or its study.
Which word fits?
Choose historic or historical for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The first successful flight was a ___ achievement.
Check answer 1
historic — The achievement had lasting importance.
2The students compared ___ maps from three centuries.
Check answer 2
historical — The maps are connected with past periods.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with historicfewer / less
Commonly confused words
Fewer or less?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Fewer
A smaller number of countable people or things.
In a sentence The final draft contains fewer errors.
Less
A smaller amount or lower degree.
In a sentence The final draft needs less editing time.
Spot the difference Fewer usually compares the number of plural countable things. Less usually compares an amount or degree, while accepted amount-like expressions create important exceptions.
Which word fits?
Choose fewer or less for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1After sorting, we had ___ puzzle pieces on the table.
Check answer 1
fewer — Puzzle pieces are separate countable items, so fewer is the usual choice.
2The shorter route takes ___ time.
Check answer 2
less — Time is treated as an amount, so less is the usual choice.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with fewerraise / rise
Commonly confused words
Raise or rise?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Raise
To cause something to move up or become greater.
In a sentence The stage crew will raise the curtain.
Rise
To move up or become greater without a direct object.
In a sentence The curtain will rise at seven.
Spot the difference Raise normally takes an object: someone raises something. Rise normally has no direct object: the subject itself moves upward or becomes greater.
Which word fits?
Choose raise or rise for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Sunny weather may ___ the temperature inside the greenhouse.
Check answer 1
raise — The weather causes an object, the temperature, to become higher.
2The temperature may ___ quickly inside the greenhouse.
Check answer 2
rise — The temperature itself becomes higher, so rise has no direct object.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with raiselead / led
Commonly confused words
Lead or led?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Lead
To guide, be first, or cause a result in the present or after a helping verb.
In a sentence Nora will lead the next rehearsal.
Led
The past tense and past participle of the guiding verb lead.
In a sentence Nora led yesterday’s rehearsal.
Spot the difference Lead (LEED) is the base and present form of the guiding verb. Led (LED) is its past and past-participle form. The metal noun lead is also pronounced LED.
Which word fits?
Choose lead or led for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1The trail markers will ___ us to the lake.
Check answer 1
lead — Will takes the base verb lead.
2The trail markers ___ us to the lake yesterday.
Check answer 2
led — Yesterday signals a past action, so led is correct.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with leadborrow / lend
Commonly confused words
Borrow or lend?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Borrow
To receive and use something that you plan to return or repay.
In a sentence I will borrow a ruler from Mia.
Lend
To give something for a time and expect it to be returned or repaid.
In a sentence Mia will lend a ruler to me.
Spot the difference Borrow describes receiving something temporarily; lend describes giving it temporarily. A borrower gets something from a lender, who gives it to the borrower.
Which word fits?
Choose borrow or lend for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Could I ___ your ruler for this lesson?
Check answer 1
borrow — The speaker wants to receive the ruler temporarily.
2Could you ___ your ruler to me for this lesson?
Check answer 2
lend — The owner is asked to give the ruler temporarily.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with borrowthen / than
Commonly confused words
Then or than?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Then
Next, after that, or at that time.
In a sentence We read, then drew pictures.
Than
Used when comparing things.
In a sentence My bag is lighter than yours.
Spot the difference Then concerns time or what happens next. Than introduces a comparison.
Which word fits?
Choose then or than for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1First fold the paper; ___ press the edges flat.
Check answer 1
then — The sentence gives the next step.
2This ribbon is longer ___ the red one.
Check answer 2
than — The sentence compares the ribbon lengths.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with thenquiet / quite
Commonly confused words
Quiet or quite?
Compare the meanings, then choose a word for each new sentence.
Quiet
Making little noise or having little activity.
In a sentence The library was quiet.
Quite
Fairly, very, or completely, depending on what is described.
In a sentence The answer is quite correct.
Spot the difference Quiet means little noise or activity. Quite can mean fairly or completely, depending on context.
Which word fits?
Choose quiet or quite for each blank. Say your answer, then check why it fits.
1Please keep the room ___ while the baby sleeps.
Check answer 1
quiet — The sentence asks for little noise.
2I am ___ certain that this is the right key.
Check answer 2
quite — Quite strengthens certain; quiet does not fit here.
Make it your ownTry the word in a sentence about your day.
Write a sentence with quiet