#149976002 / gettyimages.com I often see a single word that should be two words. Here are some examples. Setup and set up “Setup” is a noun, usually meaning an arrangement. “The setup worked well.” “Set up” is a verb, meaning to assemble or put in readiness. “She set up the display.” Logon and log on […]
Affect or Effect?
The words “affect” and “effect” are often misused. “Affect” is a verb that means “to influence,” as in “the headache affected his ability to concentrate.” “Effect” is a noun that means the result, as in “the effect was amazing.” How can you remember the difference? Try any or all of these approaches. First, “affect” is […]
The “Right” Word: “Lie” and “Lay”
I recently saw “lie” and “lay” used incorrectly Unfortunately, it is definitely understandable. “Lie” and “lay” may be the two most confusing words in English. The verb “lie” means to be at rest, especially in a horizontal position. (“I’m going to lie down for a nap.”). The verb “lie” also means to be in some condition. (“The fault lies […]
The “Right” Word: The Principal Principle
Here are two words that often get used incorrectly: “principal” and “principle.” “Principal” means the most important person or thing. It can be a noun (e.g., the principal of the school) or an adjective (e.g., the principal issue). “Principle” is a noun that means a fundamental law or doctrine. (e.g., “It’s the principle of the thing.”) How can […]
Big, Bigger, Biggest: the Decline of the Comparative
A friend sent me this article from the Vancouver Sun, complaining that the comparative in English is dying. http://bit.ly/92tWKA You know the comparative. In “big,” “bigger” and “biggest,” the word in the middle (“bigger”) is the comparative. In general, the rule of thumb is that you make the comparative of a short word by adding […]
