These words are synonyms in everyday writing but not in scientific or technical writing. The earth revolves around the sun and rotates upon its axis.
Category: Confusing Words
Difference between Review and Revue
Review refers to critically evaluating. Her new movie has received mixed reviews from the critics. Revue refers to a musical or theatrical production. Igor Stravinsky once composed a ballet score for a Broadway revue.
Difference between Retroactive from and Retroactive to
Retroactive to is the preferred phrase. The salary increases are retroactive to January 1.
Difference between Retch and Wretch
Retch refers to vomiting or gagging. Wretch refers to a pitiable or groveling person.
Difference between Restive and Restless
Restive means impatient or fidgety under pressure or restraint. The guards are worried about the restive prisoners. Restless means uneasy, unquiet, or unable to rest or relax. The doctor felt her restless nights were due to sleep apnea.
Difference between Respectably, Respectfully and Respectively
Respectably means in a decent way. All of the invitees are dressed respectably for the occasion. Respectfully means in a courteous way. Tom respectfully submitted his opinion to the city council. Respectively means in the order given or indicated. Harold and Ted are an engineer and lawyer, respectively.
Difference between Resister and Resistor
Resister is anyone who offers resistance. Resistor is a device that controls current in an electrical circuit.
Difference between Represented and Representated
Representated is not a word.
Difference between Repertoire and Repertory
Repertoire is the range of entertainment a person or group performs. Larry has a good repertoire of corny jokes that we enjoy. Repertory is the place where a person or group performs. The Owego Drama Players have their own repertory theatre.
Difference between Remuneration and Renumeration
The correct word is remuneration meaning compensation (money). Executive remuneration is the focus of considerable attention.
Difference between Remediable and Remedial
Remediable means capable of being corrected or remedied. Dr. Watson assures us your teeth problems are remediable. Remedial means supplying a remedy. A research brief on remedial education is available at the office.
Difference between Reluctant and Reticent
Reluctant means opposing or unwilling to act. Few golfers are reluctant to wear soft spikes on the course. Reticent means keeping silent or unwilling to speak freely. Her reticent nature conceals many of her talents.