7 more confusing word pairs
Know the difference between ‘flout’ and ‘flaunt’ or ‘home’ and ‘hone’? Here’s a handy guide—with examples—to ensure (not insure) that you never mix up these and some other tricky words again.
Oral and verbal
“Oral” means by mouth and should be used when referring to spoken language. It is more precise than verbal.
• Example: The incident was mentioned in an oral report to her supervisor.
“Verbal” means with words, either written or spoken.
• Example: Patrick O’Brian is a verbal virtuoso.
Complement and compliment
“Complement” means to add to or complete. It can also mean the quantity, number, or assortment required to make a thing complete.
• Example: The information on this website is meant to complement the advice from your physician.
• Example: I have the full complement of style guides and dictionaries.
A “compliment” is an expression of esteem, respect, affection, or admiration. “Complimentary” means favorable or free.
• Example: Was Anna trying to compliment me or insult me?
• Example: The feedback on the article has been very complimentary.
• Example: The tickets were complimentary.
Cord and chord
A “cord” refers to a rope or a bond, an insulated electrical cable, or an anatomical structure.
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