About Today: Tricky Words and Phrases

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Today "Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly–they'll go through anything," wrote Aldous Huxley in a "Brave New World." They can make you smarter and change your perspective. But words that sound and look alike can also be trouble. Today we'll go over some tricky words and phrases that confuse readers and writers. Common Mistakes Made by English Speakers "England and America are two countries separated by the same language," said George Bernard Shaw. Words in fact are like small engines that can drive people together. But common mistakes can also push them apart. Save a little embarrassment and brush up with these five grammar tips. And here, we go over five words that may not mean what you think they mean. Don't forget to take our big quiz on commonly confused words. Search Related Topics:  adult edu  esl  english Homonyms, Homophones, and Homographs They are frequently misused and misunderstood. They look and sound alike, but have different meanings. Here are some charts to help you recognize the differences between the most common homonyms, homophones and homographs. And don't forget to take a look at tricky homophones in German. You can also review these commonly confused words in Spanish. Tips for Learning Tricky Words "If you don't know how to pronounce a word, say it loud!" wrote William Strunk Jr. in "The Elements of Style." Listening to a word, breaking it up syllable by syllable is one way to memorize spelling. Here we offer you other easy tips to remember the spelling of these commonly confused words. Don't forget to try these tips for tricky biology words. And here we go over some "fickle friends" that are confusing in Spanish. Search Related Topics:  spelling tricky words  language arts  spelling bees The Lighter Side of Language "Have you guys heard any of my metaphors yet? Well come on, sit on grandpa's lap as I tell you how infections are criminals; immune system's the police," said Dr. Gregory House on the popular TV show. Figures of speech can be confusing and need interpretation. But join us as we have some fun with these medical metaphors. Don't forget to read these funny Homer Simpson figures of speech. And here, the Monty Python speaks figuratively. Search Related Topics:  lighter side of language  metaphors  Related Searches Phonics Words Spelling French Words English Words Common Words Featured Articles Four Helpful Spelling Tips Practice Choosing the Correct Words What Are Mixed Metaphors? Wiseguy Proverbs and Parables Uncensored Italian Slang for Adults 200 Common Redundancies   More from About.com Run Your First 5K Even couch potatoes can be ready for a 5K with just a couple months of training. Read more...> Help! I'm Too Busy Time and stress management tips to help you feel as though you have more time. Read more...>   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About.com Today newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About.com respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 1500 Broadway, 6th Floor New York, NY, 10036 © 2013 About.com     Follow us on: Advertisement