CRT Review: Commonly Confused Words

Commonly Confused Words

Part 2

The following is a list of words that are often confused and misused in writing.

Accept - to consider or hold as true; to receive
Except - take exception to; prevent from being included; to leave out

Examples:
She accepted the criticism with grace and understanding.
You may eat any of the pies, except the pumpkin pie.


Allusion - indirect mention
Illusion- a false perception of reality

Examples:
Her allusion to the president in her speech was uncalled for.
Your hope for being rescued is an illusion.


Breath - air inhaled or exhaled (noun)
Breathe - to inhale or exhale (verb)

Examples:
It is so cold I can see my breath.
You need to calm down and just breathe.


Its - possessive form of the pronoun it
It's - conjunction of 'it is'.

Examples:
The puppy will howl if you take away its food dish.
It's going to be a rainy day.


Principal - educator who has executive authority over a school
Principle - a rule or standard

Examples:
If you earn one more incomplete you will have to go see the principal.
This company was founded on three core principles.


Lose - to misplace; to not win
Loose - not tight; to release

You cannot lose this key.
If you cannot fix the engine, you will lose the race.
I forgot my belt and my pants are too loose.
The turkeys have been set loose.