That is used when the word introduces a clause essential (or restrictive) to the meaning of the sentence. That helps identify the information and is not set off by commas. This is the Chevy that has a new engine. Here is the rule that applies in both cases. Which is used when the word introduces a […]
Category: Confusing Words
Difference between That there, Them there, These here and This here
Avoid these phrases. Just use that, those, these, or this.
Difference between Tepid and Vapid
Tepid means lukewarm or unenthusiastic. They used tepid water for the baby’s bath. The crowd greeted the band with a tepid reception. Vapid means lacking animation, boring, or dull. In the interview, he came across as vapid and artificial.
Difference between Tenderhooks and Tenterhooks
Tenterhooks, meaning to be as tense as a tenter (a person who stretches canvass), is the correct word.
Difference between Tenant and Tenet
Tenant refers to one who holds the right (or lease) to occupy a place. The previous tenant of this apartment lived here for 12 years. Tenet refers to a rule, belief, or part of a body of doctrine. Avoiding pork altogether is a tenet of some faiths.
Difference between Temerity and Timidity
Temerity means daring or recklessness. Nick had the temerity to ask the film star for another autograph. Timidity means fearfulness or hesitancy. Timidity and shyness are common to many young children.
Difference between Taunt, Taut and Tout
Taunt means to jeer, mock, scoff, or tease someone. Ed confronted the person who taunted him during his speech. Taut means tightly stretched or tense. For safety reasons, the rope is kept taut for the rock climbers. Tout means to promote. Bill has been touted as a possible mayoral candidate.
Difference between Take a different tack and Take a different tact
Take a different tack is the correct phrase. It means to take a different strategy, and it derives from the nautical term tack, which is a ship’s direction in relation to the position of its sails. We are going to take a different tack later and focus on quality.
Difference between T-shirt and Tee shirt
Either spelling is acceptable.
Difference between Systematize and Systemize
Systematize is the preferred spelling, but either is acceptable.
Difference between Sure and and Sure to
Sure to is the correct phrase. Be sure to negotiate beneficial compromises for every client.
Difference between Sure and Surely
Sure is an adjective. Waiting for hours is a sure sign of his patience and dedication. Surely is an adverb. Waiting for hours is surely a sign of his patience and dedication. Note: Careful writers try to avoid using the following informal uses of sure: Sure enough, I’ll be there. She sure is a nice […]