Chord refers to a group of musical notes. Many of the group’s earlier hits consisted of just three chords. Cord refers to a vocal cord, a cord of wood, or a rope. The high notes and fast tempo strained his vocal cords. To be on the safe side, I bought two cords of wood for […]
Category: Confusing Words
Difference between Childish and Childlike
Childish means inappropriately acting like or resembling a child. The painting looks like childish scribble rather than creative art. Childlike means retaining some positive attributes of childhood. Even in his 60s, Ken retains a childlike love of rock music.
Difference between Child-care and Child care
Hyphenate this phrase when used as an adjective. They’ve used a child-care agency for many years. Do not hyphenate this phrase when used as a noun. They searched everywhere for the best child care.
Difference between Cheap and Inexpensive
Cheap describes something that has a low price and is of low quality. We filled our first apartment with cheap, second-hand furniture. Inexpensive means low cost. The software was inexpensive, but did the job perfectly.
Difference between Character and Reputation
Character refers to a person’s personality. His spontaneous reaction is completely out of character. Reputation refers to the external perception of a person. In spite of her reputation as fair, she was not a good umpire.
Difference between Chantey and Shanty
Chantey refers to a song sung by sailors while working. As the crew washed the deck, the captain requested a chantey. Shanty refers to a roughly built shack. While stranded on the island, the crew lived in a small shanty.
Difference between Champ at the bit and Chomp at the bit
Champ at the bit is the correct phrase. The expression, which means eager or impatient, refers to an excited horse biting (champing) its bit. Because of constant misuse, chomp at the bit is becoming more common. James champs at the bit when he sees the other soccer team take the field.
Difference between Chalked full and Chock full
Chock full, meaning completely full, is the correct phrase. Of navel origin, the saying comes from the phrase chock-a-block, which refers to two blocks of tackle stuck together so tightly they can’t be tightened any further. The technician recommended a web site chock full of useful tools.
Difference between Chaise longue and Chaise lounge
Chaise longue is the correct phrase. The phrase is French for long chair with a back support and seat long enough to support outstretched legs.
Chafe vs Chaff
Chafe means to irritate or annoy something.
Difference between Cession and Session
Cession refers to an act of ceding (surrendering). It took the committee over two years to ratify the cession agreement. Session refers to a meeting or term. Scott is taking one course during the school’s summer session.
Difference between Ceremonial and Ceremonious
Ceremonial means being proper for a ceremony. She wore her traditional ceremonial dress to the banquet. Ceremonious means done in great ceremony (politely or formally). The new king offered a ceremonious toast at the gala.