Glossary of usage

How can the glossary of usage help you?

The glossary will help you to make correct words choices in both your formal and informal writing and speaking. It will do this by providing the following information within entries.

• definitions of words
• sample sentences using words correctly in context
• preferred formal usage for academic writing
• commonly confused word (explicit, implicit)
• nonstandard vocabulary (ain’t)
• colloquialisms (flunk)
• jargon (finalize)
• non-inclusive language (mankind)
• redundancies (and, etc.)
• parts of speech for many words
• cross-references to other relevant handbook sections
• homophones
• common abbreviations
• prefixes and suffixes

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a, an  Use a before a word that begins with a consonant sound, even if the word begins with a vowel: a computer, a desk, a unique individual, a university.  Use an before a word that begins with a vowel sound, even if the word begins with a consonant: an iguana, an oak, an hour, an honour. Words beginning with the letter h often present problems. Generally if the initial h sound is hard, use a: a hotdog, a heart attack. However, if the initial h is silent, use an: an honest mistake. If the h is pronounced, Canadian writers generally use a with the word: a history, a hotel.

accept, except  Accept is a verb meaning “to receive” or “take to (oneself)”. He accepted the lottery prize.  Except is very rarely a verb, but usually it is a preposition meaning “to exclude.” Everyone except Jerome received a penalty.

adapt,  adopt  Adapt means to “adjust oneself to” or “make suitable” and it is followed by the preposition to. The lizard will adapt to its surroundings. The word adapt can also mean “revise,” in which case it is used with the preposition for or from. They will adapt the model for the silver screen. Adopt means “to take or use as one’s own.” They plan to adopt the idea for their computer game.

adverse, averse  Adverse means “unfavourable.” Smoking has an adverse effect on your health. Averse means “opposed” or “having an active distaste”; or “reluctant,” in which case it is followed by the preposition to.  She was averse to fighting of any kind.

advice, advise   Advice is a noun that means “an opinion about what should be done.” Take my advice and sell while you can. Advise is a verb that means “to offer advice.” The high-priced lawyer will advise us on what course of action to take.

affect, effect  Affect is verb that most commonly means “to influence.” Pollution severely affects the fish habitat. Effect is often a noun meaning “result.” Jackson Pollock flicked paint on the canvas, but it was not the effect he wanted. Effect can also be used verb meaning “to bring about or execute.” The cost cutting moves will effect a turnaround for the business.

aggravate, irritate Aggravate is a verb that means “to make worse or more severe”. The boy’s cold was aggravated by the dry air. Irritate, a verb, means “to make impatient or angry.” Note that aggravate is often used colloquially to mean irritate. Do not substitute aggravate for irritate in formal writing. His constant complaining irritated [not aggravated] me.

agree to, agree with  Agree to means “to consent to.” The two sides will agree to the proposal. Agree with mean “to be in accord with.” The witness’s version of events agrees with theirs.

ain’t  Ain’t means “am not, are not, or is not”. It is nonstandard English and should not be used in formal writing

all ready, already  All ready means “completely prepared.” The sprinter is all ready for the starter’s gun. Already is an adverb that means “before this time; previously, even now.” They have already seen The Lion King and weren’t that impressed.”

all right, alright  All right is always written as two words. Alright is nonstandard English for all right and should not be used in formal writing. It’s all right [not alright] to eat dinner if Desmond is late.

allude, elude  Allude means “to refer to directly or casually.” Do not use it to mean “to refer to directly.” In his presentation, Freud specifically referred to [not alluded to] the importance of the subconscious.

allusion, illusion, delusion  Allusion is an “implied or indirect reference.” The prosecuting attorney made an allusion to her criminal past. The word illusion means “an appearance or feeling that misleads because it is not real.” When the bus backed up, it created the illusion that we were moving. This should be distinguished from delusion, which means “a false an often harmful belief about something that does not exist.” The paranoid reporter had the delusion that every e-mail contained a virus.

alot, a lot  A lot is always written as two words. We have not had a lot of snow this winter. Avoid using a lot in formal writing.

altogether, all together Altogether means “completely, entirely.” Altogether there were eight novels assigned for the course. The phrase all together means “together in a group.” We found the litter or puppies all together in the garage.

a.m., p.m., A.M., P.M. Use these abbreviations only with specific times, when numerals are provided: 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Do not use the abbreviations as substitutes for morning, afternoon, or evening. The mother had to wake up early in the morning [not a.m.] to take her daughter to the hockey game.

among, between  See between, among.

amoral, immoral Amoral means “not having any morals; neither moral or immoral.” The cabinet adopted an amoral perspective when they considered tax cuts. The world immoral means “morally wrong or wicked.” It is immoral to steal food from the food bank.

amount, number Amount is used to refer to things in bulk or mass. These things cannot be counted. A large amount of litter can be found along the highway. Number is used to refer to things that can be counted. He gobbled down a number of bedtime snacks every evening.

an, a   See a, an.

and, etc.  Etc. (et cetera) means “and so forth.” Do not use and/etc. because it is redundant. See also etc.

and/or  And/or is sometimes used to indicate three possibilities: one or the other, or both. It is occasionally acceptable in business, technical, or legal writing. Avoid the awkward construction when writing for the humanities.

Ante-, anti-  Ante is a prefix that means “before; earlier, in front of.” The reporter waited in an anteroom before the politician would see her. The prefix anti- means “against” or “opposed to.” The pacifists strongly support the antigun law. Use anti with a hyphen when it is followed by a capital letter or a word beginning in i. His whole campaign was based on fighting terrorism.

Anxious, eager Anxious means “nervous”, “trouble”, or “worried.” The looming, dark clouds made Tim anxious. Eager means “looking forward” and is often followed by the preposition to. Stella was eager to receive the Christmas parcel. Do not use anxious to mean “eager.” I’m eager [not anxious] to spend my gift certificate

anyone  Anyone is singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.)

anyone,  any one  Anyone is an indefinite pronoun that means “any person at all.” Can anyone tell me what to do?  In any one, the pronoun one is preceded by the adjective any. Here the two words refer to any person or thing in a group. Once the last of the patrons have left, you can jump in any one of the bumper cars.

anyplace  Anyplace is informal for anywhere. Do not use anyplace in formal writing.

Anyways, anywheres  Anyways and anwheres are nonstandard for anyway and anywhere respectively. Always use anyway and anywhere in formal speaking and writing.

as  Substituting as for because, since, and while may make a sentence vague or ambiguous. Since [not as] we were stopping for gas, we decided to use the restroom. If as were used in this sentence, the cause-effect relationship would be unclear.

as, like  See like, as.

averse, adverse   See adverse, averse.

awful, awfully  In formal English usage the adjective awful means “fill with awe.” The Northern Lights are an awful sight. Colloquially, awful is used to mean “bad” or “terrible.” It was an awful day when I was fired. The adverb awfully is sometimes used in informal speech as an intensifier to mean “extremely” or “very.” He was awfully upset when he opened the bill. Avoid such colloquial usage in formal writing.

awhile, a while  Awhile is an adverb. Stay awhile, if you wish. Use the article and noun, a while, as the object of a preposition. When the prospective buyers viewed our house, we circled the block for a while.

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bad, badly Bad is an adjective. They felt bad about leaving the party early. The word badly is an adverb. His infected hand hurt badly.

being as, being that  Both being as and being that are non-standard expressions used in place of the subordinating conjunctions because or since.  Since [not Being that] vandals had written on the walls, tough security measures were put in place.

beside, besides  Beside is a preposition meaning “by the side of” or “near.” Grass grows beside the stream. Besides is a preposition meaning “also,” “moreover,” or “further”. Jeff did not want to fight; besides he was injured. Besides can also be an adverb meaning “in addition.” The computer hacks tried two other strategies besides.

between, among Use among when referring to relationships involving more than two people or things. You can choose among fifteen sports. Use between when referring to relationships involving two people or things. When deciding which band is greatest, you need to take into account the difference in record sales between the two.

bring, take  Use bring when something is being moved toward the speaker. Please bring the thermometer to me. Use take when something is being moved away. I ask that you take the pizza to the Simpsons.

burst, bursted; bust busted Burst is an irregular verb meaning to “fly apart suddenly with force; explode; break open.” The water-filled balloon burst when it hit the pavement. Bursted is the nonstandard past-tense form of burst. Bust and its past-tense form busted are slang.

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can, may Can means “know how to” or “be able to.” Mai-Ling can play the piano. May means “be allowed to” or “have permission to.” Ted, you may go now. The distinction in meaning between can and may is still made in formal writing. In informal English, can is widely used to mean “be able to” an “be allowed to.”

capital, capitol  Capital refers to a city where the government of a country, province, or state is located. Edmonton is the capital of Alberta. Capital  can also mean the amount of money a company or person uses in carrying on a business. Capitol is a building in which American lawmakers meet. When referring to the building in which the U.S. Congress meets, capitalize the first letter, as in Capitol.

censor, censure   The verb censor means “to edit or remove from public view on moral or other grounds.” They will censor the violent movie before it can be seen in theatres. The verb censure means “to express strong disapproval.” The House will censure the minister for giving misleading information.

cite, site  The verb cite means “to quote, especially as an authority.” Doug cited the poet’s use of allusion in his essay. The noun site often means “a particular place.” The vacant field will be site of a new shopping centre.

climactic, climatic   Climactic is an adjective derived from climax; climax means “the highest point; point of highest interest; the most exciting part.” The scene in which the boy is reunited with his father is the climactic moment of the movie. The adjective climatic means “of or having to do with climate.” In order for a tornado to occur, there must be certain climatic conditions.

coarse, course   Coarse usually means “heavy and rough in texture” or “crude.” Shelley used a coarse sandpaper to finish the table. Course means “a line of movement”, “a direction taken,” “a way, path, or track,” or a “playing field.” Seeking help for your drinking problem is the right course of action. 

compare to, compare with  Compare to means “to represent as similar.” Let me compare you to a summer’s day. Compare with means “to point out how two persons or things are alike and how they differ.” I will compare Yeats’ poem with Eliot’s.

complement, compliment  The verb complement means to reinforce, add to, or complete something. The scarf complements his wardrobe. As a noun, complement is something that completes. Compliment as a verb means to say something in praise. I must compliment you on your fine enunciation. As a noun, compliment means a remark of praise.

conscience, conscious  Conscience is a noun meaning “the sense of moral right and wrong.” His conscience would not let him shoplift the film. Conscious is an adjective that means “aware; knowing.” Nancy Drew was conscious of a shadowy figure sneaking up behind her.

consensus of opinion Consensus means “general agreement.” As a result, the phrase consensus of opinion is redundant. A consensus [not consensus of opinion] is required before the motion will be passed.

contact  Contact is often used informally as a verb meaning “to communicate with.” In formal writing. use a precise verb such as e-mail, telephone, or write. I will write to [not contact] you about the directions to the family reunion.

continual, continuous  Continual means “repeated many times; very frequent.” When the roofers were here, there was continual hammering. Continuous means “without a stop or a break.” During rush hour there is a continuous line of cars.

could care less  Could care less is nonstandard and should not be used in formal writing. Use couldn’t care less in its place. Daphne couldn’t care less how much the job pays, as long as it gives her satisfaction.

could of  Could of is nonstandard for could have. If not for his injury, Mr. Martin could have [not could of] become a professional basketball player.

council, counsel  Council is a noun used to describe “a group of people called together to talk things over, or give advice”; it also applies to “a group of people elected by citizens to make up laws.” A tribal council will decide the appropriate punishment. A councillor is a member of the council. Counsel as a noun means “advice.” The chief give wise counsel.Counsel can also mean a lawyer. A counsellor is someone who gives advice or guidance.

criteria, criterion  Criteria are rules for making judgements. Criteria is the plural form of critereon. The major criteria for the job are a background in multimedia and a readiness to work overtime.

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data, datum  Data are “facts or concepts presented in a form suitable for processing in order to draw conclusions.” Data is the plural form of datum, which is rarely used. Increasingly data is used as a singular noun; however, careful writers use it as a plural. The new data reveal [or increasingly reveals] that the economy is rebounding.

different from, different than  In standard English the preferred form is different from. The new edition of Ulysses is very different from the previous one. However, different than is gaining wider acceptance, especially when different from creates an awkward construction. He is a different person today than [as opposed to the more awkward from the person] he used to be.

differ from, differ with  Differ from means “to be unlike.” The brothers differ from each other only in their girlfriends. Differ with means “to disagree with.” I used to differ with my stepmother on what time I should be home on Saturday night.

discreet, discrete  Discreet means “prudent and tactful is speech and behaviour.” The mayor was very discreet when talking about the manager’s personal life. Discrete means “separate; distinct.” There are discrete parts of the cell that perform specialized functions.

disinterested, uninterested Disinterested means “impartial.” The premier appointed a disinterested third part to mediate the dispute. Uninterested means “lacking in interest,” or “bored.” Shelley is uninterested in reality-based television shows.

don’t   Don’t is a contraction for do not. Don’t slam the door. Do not use don’t as a contraction for does not; the correct contraction is doesn’t. Selma doesn’t [not don’t] want to shovel the walk.

due to  Due to means “caused by “ or “owing to.” It should be used as an adjective phrase following a form of the verb to be. The inquest ruled that the death was due to driver error. In formal writing, due to should not be used as a preposition meaning “because of.” Classes were cancelled because of [not due to] the heavy snowstorm.

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each  Each is singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.)

eager, anxious  See anxious, eager.

effect, affect  See affect, effect.

e.g.  This is the Latin abbreviation for exempi gratia, which means “for example.” In formal writing, avoid e.g. and use phrases such as for example or for instance instead. Many fish, for example salmon and trout, will be affected.

either Either is singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.) See G1-c, for either … or constructions.

elicit, illicit  Elicit is a verb meaning “to draw forth” or “bring out.” Listening to a great symphony will elicit strong emotions. The adjective illicit means “unlawful.” The neighbours had an illicit growing operation in their basement.

emigrate from, immigrate to  Emigrate means “to leave one’s own country or region and settle in another”; it requires the preposition from. The Bhuttos emigrated from Pakistan. Immigrate means “to enter and permanently settle in another country”; it requires the preposition to. Mr. Bhutto’s cousin now plans to immigrate to Canada.

eminent, immanent, imminent  Eminent  means “distinguished” or “exalted.” The eminent scientist delivered the lecture. Immanent is an adjective that means “inherent” or “remaining within.” I believe most Canadian have an immanent goodness. Imminent is an adjective meaning “likely to happen soon.” Given the troop movements, the general felt an attack was imminent.

enthused, enthusiastic Enthused is an informal term meaning “showing enthusiasm.” Use enthusiastic instead. He becomes enthusiastic [not enthused] about Oilers’ playoff games.

-ess  Many reader find the –ess suffix demeaning. Write actor, not actress; Jew not Jewess.

etc.  Etc. is an abbreviation, which means in English “an other things.” Do not use etc. to refer to people. In more formal writing, it is preferable to use the expression and so on in place of etc. See also and etc.

eventually, ultimately  Eventually often means “an undefined time in the future.” Ultimately commonly means “the greatest extreme or furthest extent.” Eventually and ultimately are frequently used interchangeably. It is best to use eventually when referring to time and ultimately when referring to greatest extent. Eventually the killer will be found. I find it ultimately the most reasonable alternative.

everybody, everyone  Everybody and everyone are both singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.)

everyone, every one Everyone is an indefinite pronoun meaning “every person.” Everyone wanted to purchase a ticket. Every one is a pronoun, one, modified by an adjective, every; the two words mean “each person or thing in a group.” Every one is frequently followed by of. Every one of the roads in Oakville experiences gridlock.

except, accept  See accept, except.

except for the fact that Avoid this wordy, awkward construction. Use instead except that.

explicit, implicit  Explicit means “clearly expressed; directly stated.” The coach gave everyone but Keon explicit orders not to shoot. Implicit means “meant but not clearly expressed or directly stated.” My mother-in-law’s silence was implicit consent to pour her another glass of wine.

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farther, further In formal English farther is used for physical distance. On the map, Courtenay is farther than Ladysmith.  Further is used to mean “more” or “to a greater extent.” He took the teasing further than would be appropriate under any circumstances.

female, male Female and male are considered jargon if substituted for “woman” and “man.” Sixteen men [not males] and seventeen women [not females] made the team.

fewer, less  Use fewer only to refer to numbers and things that can be counted. There are fewer houses up for sale than there were last year at this time. Use less to refer to collective nouns or things that cannot be counted. Generally, there is less traffic congestion at mid-day.

finalize  Finalize is a verb meaning “to bring to a conclusion.” The word, though often used, is considered jargon by many people. Use a clear, acceptable alternative. The football coach completed [not finalized] final plans for the game.

flunk  Flunk is colloquial for fail, and it should be avoided in formal writing.

folks  Folks is informal for “one’s family; one’s relatives.” In academic writing, use a more formal expression than folks. My mother and father [not folks] are organizing the family reunion.

fun  When used as an adjective fun is colloquial; it should be avoided in formal writing. The Jawbreaker was an exciting [not fun] ride.

further, farther  See farther, further.

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get  Get is a common verb with many slang and colloquial uses. Avoid the following uses of get: “to become” (He got a cold.); “to obtain revenge” (Gillian got back a Ted for the rumors he spread.); “to annoy” (His constant complaining really got to me.); “to elicit an emotional response.” (The final scene in the movie really got to me.)

good, well  Good is an adjective. Michael is a good skier. Well is nearly always an adverb. (See G4.) The racing team skis well.

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hanged, hung  Hanged is the past tense and past participle of hang, which means “to execute.” The man was convicted of treason and hanged. Hung is the past tense and past participle of hang, which means “to fasten or be fastened to something.” Decorations for the dance hung from the ceiling.

hardly   Avoid double negative expressions such as not hardly or can’t hardly. (See G4-d.) I can [not can’t] hardly find words to express myself.

has got, have got Avoid using have got or has got when have or has alone communicate intended meaning. I have [not have got] two more books to finish reading to complete the course requirements.

he  Do not use only he when the complete meaning is “he or she.” In modern usage, this is not inclusive. See G3-a and U3-e for alternative constructions.

he/she, his/her Use he or she, or his or her in formal writing. For alternative, more concise constructions, see G3-a and U3-e.

hisself  Nonstandard for himself.

hopefully  Hopefully is an adverb meaning “in a hopeful manner.” Hopefully can modify a verb, an adjective, or another adverb. They waited hopeful for news from the surgeon on how the operation had gone. In formal writing, do not use hopefully as a sentence modifier with the meaning, I hope.” I hope [not Hopefully] the operation will be a success.

hung, hanged  See hanged, hung.

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i.e.  The abbreviation i.e. stands for the Latin id est, which in English means that is. In formal writing, use the English equivalent, that is.

if, whether  If is used to express conditions. If there is sufficient snow, we will go skiing in Whistler. Use whether to express alternatives. The couple was not sure whether to take the holiday in St. Lucia or in Aruba.

illicit, elicit  See elicit, illicit.

illusion, allusion  See allusion, illusion.

imminent, immanent, eminent  See eminent, immanent, imminent.

immoral, amoral  See amoral, immoral.

implement  Implement means “to carry out.” It is often unnecessary and pretentious. The president carried out [not implemented] the board’s recommendations.

imply, infer  Imply means to “express indirectly.” Angelie implied that Josephine had a crush on Billy Bob. Infer means “to conclude by reasoning.” You could infer the man was poor by his tattered clothes.

in, into  In generally indicates a location or condition. She is hiding in the house. Into indicates a direction, a movement, or change in condition. He went into the house to look for her.

individual  Individual is sometimes used as a pretentious substitute for person. A few persons [not individuals] were invited to apply for the position.

ingenious, ingenuous  Ingenious means “clever” or “skilful.” The  criminal devised a brilliant plan to rob the bank. Ingenuous means “frank” and “simple.” His country manner was quite ingenuous.

in regards to  In regards to confuses two phrases: in regard to and as regards. Use either one of these alternative to in regards to. Talk to your counsellor in regard to the application.

Irregardless  Irregardless is nonstandard English. Use regardless instead.

is when, is where  Do not use when or where following is in definitions. Photosynthesis is the process by which [not is when] plant cells make sugar from carbon dioxide and water in the presence of chlorophyl and light.

it is   It is becomes nonstandard when used to mean “there is.” There is [not It is] a glowing disc in the night sky.

its, it’s  Its is a possessive pronoun. The cat will come in its own good time. It’s is a contraction for it is. It’s the perfect time to buy a house. (See P5-c.)

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kind, kinds  Kind is  singular and should not be treated as a plural. This [not These] kind of painting was popular in the era. Kinds is plural. These kinds of paintings were popular during the era.

kind of, sort of  Kind of and sort of are colloquial expressions meaning “rather” or “somewhat.” Do not use these colloquialisms in formal writing. I was somewhat [not kind of or sort of] disappointed by the low class mark.

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lead, led  Lead  is a soft heavy metal. Led is the past tense of the verb lead. His accurate  directions led me to the correct address.

learn, teach Learn means “to gain knowledge of or a skill by instruction, study, or experience.” I learned how to play chess. Teach means “to impart knowledge or a skill.” I will teach [not learn] my little cousin to play the game.

less, fewer See fewer, less.

liable  Liable means “legally responsible.” Avoid using it to mean “likely.” Jeff is not likely [not liable] to catch any fish on this trip.

licence, license Licence is a noun meaning “legal permission by law to do something.” Joe’s business licence hung prominently on the wall. License is a verb meaning “to permit or authorize.” A veterinarian is licensed to practise animal medicine.  

lie, lay  Lie means “to recline.” It is an intransitive verb, which means it does not take a direct object. The principal forms of the verb are lie, lay, and lain. Lie down now. Lay means “to put” or “to place.” It is transitive verb, which means it always requires a direct object. The principal parts of the verb are lay, laid, and lain.  He lays the book on the table. (See G2-b.)

like, as  Like  is a preposition, and it should be followed by a noun or a noun phrase. Daniel looks like a million dollars. As is a subordinating conjunction and should be used to introduce a dependent clause. As always happens, he is late.

loose, lose Loose is an adjective meaning “not firmly fastened.” He has a loose tooth as a result of biting into the hard candy. Lose is a verb meaning “to misplace” or “to be defeated.” The Rams will lose the Super Bowl.

lots, lots of  Lots and lots of are colloquial substitutes for many, much, and a great deal. They should not be used in formal writing.

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male, female  See female, male.

Mankind Mankind is not an inclusive term, as it excludes women. Avoid it in favour of terms such as humans, humanity, the human race, or humankind.

may, can See can, may.

maybe, may be Maybe is an adverb meaning “perhaps.” Maybe we should build the outdoor rink tomorrow. May be is a verb phrase. Since the temperature will be lower on Tuesday, that may be a better day.

may of, might of  May of and might of are nonstandard English for may have and might have. Mona might have [not might of] taken the chicken out of the oven too early.

media, medium Media is the plural of medium. The media are offering too much coverage of sensational stories.

moral, morale Moral is a noun meaning “an ethical conclusion.” Morale means “the attitude as regards courage, confidence, and enthusiasm.” Team morale was low after the twentieth defeat.

most  When used to mean “almost,” most is colloquial. This usage should be avoided in formal writing. Almost [not Most] every student went to the party.

must of  See may of, might of.

myself  Myself is a reflexive pronoun. I hurt myself. Myself  can also be an intensive pronoun. I will go myself. Do not use myself in place of I or me. Jeremy and I [not myself] are going on a trip. (See also G3-c.)

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neither   Neither is most often singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.) See G1-c for neither … nor constructions.

none  None is usually singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.)

nowheres  Nowheres is nonstandard English for nowhere.

number, amount  See amount, number.

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of  Of is a preposition. Do not use it in place of the verb have after could, should, would, may, must, and might. The Johnsons might have [not of] left their garage door open.

off of  Omit of from the expression as off is sufficient. The young boy fell off [not off of] the table.

OK, O.K., okay  All three forms are acceptable in informal writing and speech. However, avoid these colloquial expressions in formal writing and speech.

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parameters  Parameter is a mathematics term that means “a quantity that is constant in a particular calculation or case but varies in other cases.” It is sometimes used as jargon to mean any limiting or defining element or feature. Avoid such jargon and use precise English instead. The whole project had very vague guidelines [not parameters].

passed, past Passed is the past tense of the verb pass, which means “to go by.” Uncle Theo passed by our front window. Past commonly means “gone by; ended.” Never use past as a verb. Canada has a rich and glorious past.

people, persons  Use people  to refer to a group of individuals who are anonymous and uncounted. The people of South Africa have a long history of apartheid. Generally, use persons or people when referring to a countable number of individuals. Only five persons [or people] attended the town meeting.

percent, per cent, percentages Always use percent (also spelled per cent) with specific numbers. The survey revealed that 48 percent of Canadians want their country to become a republic. Percentage means “part of” or “portion,” and it is used when no number is provided. A large percentage of the population favoured the Liberals.

phenomenon, phenomena Phenomenon means “a fact, event or circumstance that can be observed.” Phenomena is the plural of phenomenon. There were all sorts of paranormal phenomena taking place in the haunted house.

plus  Plus is a nonstandard substitute for and. Do not use plus to join independent clauses. He has a driver’s license; however [not plus] it is expired.

practice, practise  Practice is a noun meaning “an action done several times over to gain a skill.” Practice will improve your dribbling. Practise is a verb meaning “to do something again and again in order to learn it.” Su Li practises the violin twice a day.

precede, proceed Precede means “to go or come before.” A mild gust preceded the hurricane. Proceed means “to go on after having stopped” or “move forward.” After a family meeting about finances, we proceeded with the wedding plans.

principal, principle The noun principal means “a chief person” or “a sum of money that has been borrowed.” After Mr. Toutant’s retirement from J.P. Morgan Elementary School, a new principal was appointed. The noun principle means “a fact or belief on which other ideas are based.” The constitution is based on the principles of equality and justice.  Note too that there is an an adjective form principal meaning main.  The principal reason I didn’t vote was my disagreement with all the candidates’ platforms.

proceed, precede  See precede, proceed.

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quote, quotation  Quote is a verb meaning “to repeat the exact words of.” She quoted the precise line from “Leda and the Swan” to illustrate her point. Quotation is a noun meaning “a passage quoted.” Do not use quote as a shortened form of quotation. Often using a relevant quotation [not quote] is a good way to begin a speech.

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raise, rise Raise means “to move to a higher level; elevate.” It is a transitive verb, which means it requires a direct object. The stage manager raised the curtain. Rise means “to go up.” It is an intransitive verb, which means it does not require a direct object. The smoke rises.

real, really  Real is an adjective. Occasionally, in informal speech and writing, it is used as an adverb, but this usage should be avoided in formal writing. Really is an adverb. Don was really [not real] excited. (See G4.) In informal writing and speech, real and really are used as intensifiers to mean “extremely” or “very”; such usage should be avoided in formal writing and speech.

reason is because Reason is because is a redundant expression. Use reason is that instead. One reason that we moved from Moose Jaw is that [not is because] mom got a teaching job at a community college.

reason why Reason why is a redundant expression. In its place use either reason or why. I still do not know why [not the reason why] she rejected my invitation.

regretfully, regrettably Regretfully means full of regret.  It describes a person’s attitude of regret.  Regretfully, he wrote to apologize.  Regrettably means that circumstances are regrettable.  Regrettably, the circus was rained out today.

relation, relationship Relation is used to describe the association between two or more things. The scientist studied the relation between lung cancer and smog. Relationship is used to describe the association or connection between people. Peter and Olga had a professional relationship that soon blossomed into a personal one.

respectfully, respectively Respectfully is an adverb meaning “showing or marked by proper respect.” She respectfully presented her counter-argument in the debate. Respectively is an adverb meaning “singly in the order designated or mentioned.” Chand, Doug, and Lenore are a surgeon, bus driver, and company vice president respectively.

rise, raise See raise, rise.

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sensual, sensuous  Sensual is an adjective meaning “relating to gratification of the physical senses.” The chef obtains sensual pleasure from cooking. Sensuous is an adjective meaning “pleasing to the senses.” Sensuous is always favourable and often applies to the appreciation of nature, art, or music. She obtains a sensuous delight from Mozart’s music.

set, sit  Set means “to set in place, position, or put down.” It is a transitive verb, requiring a direct object and its principal parts are set, set, set. Ali set the book on the ledge. Sit means “to be seated.” It is an intransitive verb, not requiring a direct object and its principal parts are sit, sat, sat. Set is sometimes a nonstandard substitute for sit. Avoid this usage in formal writing. The dog sat [not set] down.

shall, will  Shall was once used with the first-person singular and plural as the helping verb with future tense verbs. I shall visit grandfather on Wednesday. We shall deliver the results on Thursday. In modern usage will has replaced shall. I will see you on Friday. The word shall is still often used in polite questions. Shall I bring the newspaper to your door?

should of  Should ofis nonstandard for should have. He should have submitted the essay on time.

since  Since should mainly be used in situations describing time. We have been waiting for the bus since midnight. Do not use since as a substitute for because if there is any chance of confusion. Since we lost the division, we have been playing our second-string players. Here since could mean “from that point in time” or “because.”

sit, set  See set, sit.

site, cite See cite, site.

somebody, someone Somebody and someone are singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.)

something Something is singular. (See G1-d and G3-a.)

sometime, some time, sometimes  Sometime is an adverb meaning “at an indefinite or unstated time.” Let’s meet sometime on Thursday. In some time the adjective some modifies the noun time. We haven’t seen the Jebsons for some time. Sometimes is an adverb meaning “at times; now and then.” Sometimes I’m not sure what major to pursue.

stationary, stationery Stationary means “not moving.” At the club he rode on a stationary bike. Stationery refers to paper and other writing products. I will need to buy the stationery at the business supply store.

suppose to, used to  See used to, suppose to.

sure and  Sure and is nonstandard. Instead use sure to. Please be sure to [not sure and] edit your work carefully.

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take, bring See bring, take.

than, then Than is a conjunction used to make comparisons. I would rather have cheese cake than pie. Then is an adverb used to indicate past or future time. My husband will do the vacuuming, and then he will wax the floors.

that  See who, which, that.

that, which Most writers use that for restrictive clauses and which for nonrestrictive clauses. (Se P1-e.)

theirselves  Theirselves is nonstandard English for themselves. The amused themselves [not theirselves] by going to the drive-in.

them  Them is nonstandard when it is used in place of those. Margaret, please place those [not them] flowers on the kitchen table.

then, than  See than, then.

there, their, they’re  There is an adverb meaning “at or in that place.” I’ll call home when I get there. There can also be an expletive, a phrase at the beginning of a clause. There are two beautiful dogs in the garage. Their is a possessive pronoun. It was their first house. They’re is as contraction for they are. They’re first in line for tickets.

this kind See kind(s).

thru  Thru is a colloquial spelling of through. Do not use thru in formal academic or business writing.

to, too, two. To is a preposition. We need to talk. Too is an adverb. There are too many people in the city. Two is a number. I have two red pens.

toward, towards  Both versions are acceptable; however, toward is preferred in Canadian English.

try and Try and is nonstandard English. Instead use try to. Try to [not try and] be polite.

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ultimately, eventually  See eventually, ultimately.

unique  Like straight, round, and complete, unique is an absolute. There are not degrees of uniqueness. Especially in formal writing, avoid expressions such as more unique and most unique. (See G4-c.)

usage, use Usage refers to conventions, most often of language. Placing “ain’t” in a sentence is incorrect usage. Use means “to employ.” Do not substitute usage when use is required. I do not think surfing the Internet is the proper use [not usage] of your study time.

use to, suppose to Use to and supposed to are nonstandard for used to and supposed to. We used to [not use to] have roast for dinner every Sunday night.

utilize Utilize means “to put to use.” Often use can be substituted, as utilize makes writing sound pretentious. He will use [not utilize] the best material to tile the bathroom.

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wait for, wait on  Wait for means “to await.” The girls are waiting for the commuter train. Wait on means “to serve.” It should not be used as substitute for wait for. Jeff will wait on our table. We will wait for [not wait on] the morning bus.

ways  Ways is colloquial in usage when designating distance. Edmonton is quite a way [not ways] from Vancouver.

weather, whether Weather is a noun describing “the state of the atmosphere at a given time and place.” The weather in central Canada has been unseasonably warm. Whether is a conjunction that signals a choice between or among alternatives. Grif did not know whether to stay or go.

well, good See good, well.

where  Where is nonstandard in usage when it is substituted for that as a subordinating conjunction. I read in the newspaper that [not where] Carol Shields will be giving a reading at the university.

which  See that, which and who, which, that.

while  Do not use while as a substitute for “although” or “whereas” if such usage risks ambiguity. Although [not while] Jennifer’s grades got worse, Jack’s got better. If while were used it could mean “although” or “at the same time.”

who, which, that  Use who not which to refer to person. Most often that is used to refer to things. There is the boy who [not that] kept the candies. However, that may be used to refer to a class or group of people. The team that scores the most points wins.

who, whom  Who is used for subjects and subject complements. Who is coming to dinner? Whom is used for objects. He did not know whom to ask. (See G3-d.)

who’s, whose. Who’s is a contraction for who is. Who’s going to the dinner? Whose is a possessive pronoun. Whose life is it anyway?

will, shall See shall, will.

would of   Would of is nonstandard English for would have. He would have [not would of] achieved a perfect score if he had obtained one more strike.

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you  Avoid using you in an indefinite sentence to mean “anyone.” (See G3-b.) Any collector [not You] could identify it as a fake.

your, you’re Your is a possessive pronoun. Your bicycle is in the garage. You’re is a contraction for you are. You’re the first person I contacted about the job.