00 / Confusables
Verb pairs
Lie and lay, rise and raise: verbs that differ by what they take as an object.
44sets
01 / lie vs lay
Lie is an intransitive action where a person or thing reclines, while lay is a transitive action that requires a direct object being placed down.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I am going to lay down for a quick nap before dinner.Right: I am going to lie down for a quick nap before dinner.
Wrong: He decided to lie the heavy suitcase on the floor.Right: He decided to lay the heavy suitcase on the floor.
Remember
Lie is for people; lay is for objects.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Please your smartphone on the wireless charging pad before the fitness class begins.
- 2.
The workers new bricks every morning to finish the garden wall.
- 3.
Professional athletes usually down for a short nap after a heavy training session.
- 4.
Modern remote workers often prefer to on the sofa while attending long video calls.
- 5.
The old documents undisturbed in the archives at the back of the library.
02 / rise vs raise
Rise is an intransitive verb meaning to move upward, while raise is a transitive verb meaning to lift something else.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The prices will raise because of the high inflation rate.Right: The prices will rise because of the high inflation rate.
Wrong: He rose his glass to propose a toast to the couple.Right: He raised his glass to propose a toast to the couple.
Remember
Rise happens on its own; Raise needs an object.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Smoke began to from the chimney as the fire grew.
- 2.
Smart home sensors detect when carbon dioxide levels and automatically trigger the ventilation system to improve air quality.
- 3.
The early morning mist will usually above the lake before the rowing team begins their daily practice.
- 4.
The local government plans to taxes to pay for the new bridge.
- 5.
Charity streamers often use a live progress bar to help money for global environmental causes during their broadcasts.
03 / sit vs set
Sit is an intransitive action where a person rests their weight, while set is a transitive action where someone places an object somewhere.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: He decided to set on the bench for a few minutes.Right: He decided to sit on the bench for a few minutes.
Wrong: Please sit the vase on the table before it falls.Right: Please set the vase on the table before it falls.
Remember
You sit yourself; you set the object.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
The fitness coach will a new challenge for the group on the workout app.
- 2.
The remote workers prefer to in the quiet corner of the local coffee shop.
- 3.
The cat likes to on the windowsill and watch the birds outside.
- 4.
The waiter will the plates down once everyone is ready to eat.
- 5.
Please your smartphone to silent mode before the film begins in the cinema.
04 / fall vs fell
Fall is an intransitive verb meaning to drop down, while fell is the transitive action of knocking something over.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: If the ladder slips, you will fell to the ground.Right: If the ladder slips, you will fall to the ground.
Wrong: The workers will fall the old building tomorrow morning.Right: The workers will fell the old building tomorrow morning.
Remember
You fall down; you fell a tree.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Stock prices for electric cars often when the cost of battery materials increases suddenly.
- 2.
If the internet signal is weak, your video call quality might during the presentation.
- 3.
Strong winds can power lines and cause major blackouts in the city.
- 4.
The leaves usually from the trees during the first week of October.
- 5.
Specialized teams will the damaged trees in the city park to ensure public safety.
05 / hang vs hung
Hung is the standard past tense for objects, while hanged is reserved for execution by a noose.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The prisoner was hung at dawn for his crimes.Right: The prisoner was hanged at dawn for his crimes.
Wrong: I hanged the mirror in the hallway this morning.Right: I hung the mirror in the hallway this morning.
Remember
People are hanged; pictures are hung.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
After the storm passed the residents their damp laundry on the balcony to dry in the sun.
- 2.
The artist a new digital display in the gallery to show her latest crypto art collection.
- 3.
Many remote workers prefer to a green screen behind their desk for more professional video calls.
- 4.
They decided to the new painting in the living room.
- 5.
We the festive lights along the roof last night.
06 / steal vs rob
Steal focuses on the object taken; rob focuses on the victim or location targeted.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The thieves managed to rob three expensive laptops from the office.Right: The thieves managed to steal three expensive laptops from the office.
Wrong: The mugger stole the old man in the park and took his watch.Right: The mugger robbed the old man in the park and took his watch.
Remember
You steal the stuff, but you rob the place.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
It is dangerous to walk there at night because someone might you.
- 2.
He didn't have enough money, so he decided to a loaf of bread.
- 3.
Thieves often target crowded festivals to tourists who are distracted by the live music and food stalls.
- 4.
It is difficult to a modern bank because of advanced facial recognition software and instant silent alarms.
- 5.
Hackers may try to your personal data if you connect to public Wi-Fi without using a secure VPN.
07 / discover vs invent
Discover is finding something that was already there; invent is creating something that never existed before.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Scientists want to invent new species in the deep ocean.Right: Scientists want to discover new species in the deep ocean.
Wrong: Alexander Graham Bell discovered the telephone in 1876.Right: Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876.
Remember
Discover = Uncover. Invent = Intent.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Scientists travel to remote rainforests to rare plant species that might help stabilize the local climate.
- 2.
It takes a lot of creativity to a brand new board game.
- 3.
Engineers continue to more efficient battery technologies to extend the range of modern electric cars.
- 4.
Users often new independent artists while browsing curated playlists on their favorite music streaming apps.
- 5.
She was surprised to a hidden compartment in the old desk.
08 / refuse vs deny
Refuse is saying no to an offer or request; deny is saying a statement isn't true or withholding a right.
Side by side
Remember
Refuse the offer; deny the truth.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
The athlete had to rumors about a possible transfer to a different football club.
- 2.
Some employees to return to the office because they prefer the flexibility of remote work.
- 3.
The streaming service will access to your account if the subscription payment fails.
- 4.
Most banks will to lend money without a steady source of income.
- 5.
Security guards will entry to anyone who cannot show a valid permit.
09 / accept vs agree
Accept is the act of receiving or approving something offered, while agree is the act of reaching a shared opinion or giving consent to a proposal.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The manager did not agree my apology for being late.Right: The manager did not accept my apology for being late.
Wrong: I accept with you that the project needs more funding.Right: I agree with you that the project needs more funding.
Remember
Accept the gift; agree with the idea.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
I completely with your assessment of the current market situation.
- 2.
She was thrilled to the job offer from the law firm.
- 3.
Most urban planners now that expanding the bike lane network is essential for reducing city traffic congestion.
- 4.
You must the updated privacy settings on the fitness app before you can sync your workout data.
- 5.
Many professional streamers will only a sponsorship deal if the product aligns with their personal gaming brand.
10 / advise vs advice
Advise is the action of giving a suggestion, while advice is the suggestion itself.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Can you advice me on the best way to travel?Right: Can you advise me on the best way to travel?
Wrong: I would like to ask for your advise on this matter.Right: I would like to ask for your advice on this matter.
Remember
Advise has an 's' for 'Speak'; Advice has a 'c' for 'Concept'.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
I need your on which laptop would be best for editing.
- 2.
Moderators often users to check the group rules before posting a new link in the community chat.
- 3.
Many young professionals seek financial from experts on social media to manage their remote work expenses.
- 4.
I strongly you to check the contract before signing anything.
- 5.
The fitness app provides personalized on how to improve your sleep quality after a late workout.
11 / practice vs practise
In American English, practice is both the noun and the verb, while British English uses practice for the noun and practise for the verb.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I need to practice my French before we visit Paris next month.Right: I need to practise my French before we visit Paris next month.
Remember
Ice is a noun (practice); Rise is a verb (practise).
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Most American doctors medicine in large suburban clinics or hospitals.
- 2.
You should your presentation skills before the next remote work meeting on the video call.
- 3.
British musicians often their instruments for several hours before performing a live streaming concert.
- 4.
The legal team will their opening statements in the empty courtroom.
- 5.
The professional football team follows a strict daily to prepare for the upcoming championship match.
12 / ensure vs insure vs assure
Assure is for people, ensure is for outcomes, and insure is for financial protection.
Side by side
make certain an event happens
Please check the locks to ensure the building is secure for the night.
provide financial compensation for loss
It is mandatory to insure your vehicle before driving on public roads.
tell someone something to remove doubt
I can assure you that the delivery will arrive by Friday morning.
Watch out
Wrong: We need to insure that everyone has a copy of the agenda.Right: We need to ensure that everyone has a copy of the agenda.
Wrong: I can ensure you that the project will be finished on time.Right: I can assure you that the project will be finished on time.
Remember
Assure a person; Ensure a result; Insure a house.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the three options.
- 1.
Many professional athletes now choose to their legs against career-ending injuries through specialized policies.
- 2.
The developer had to the gaming community that the server lag would be fixed by Friday.
- 3.
The gallery decided to the collection for over ten million dollars.
- 4.
The doctor tried to the patient that the procedure was routine.
- 5.
Please check your notification settings to you do not miss the live stream tonight.
- 6.
The new software update will that all data is backed up automatically.
13 / imply vs infer
Imply is the act of sending a hidden message; infer is the act of decoding it.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Are you trying to infer that I am lying to you?Right: Are you trying to imply that I am lying to you?
Remember
Imply = Sender. Infer = Receiver.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
What am I supposed to from your long silence this morning?
- 2.
I did not mean to that you were responsible for the error.
- 3.
Do not that the new electric car model has a longer range unless the data confirms it.
- 4.
The email from the remote manager did not explicitly state the deadline but did that urgency was required.
- 5.
Players can often the next plot twist in the game by listening closely to the background music cues.
14 / borrow vs loan
Borrow is to take something for a short time; loan is to give something for a short time.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I need to loan a book from the local library.Right: I need to borrow a book from the local library.
Wrong: Can you borrow me five dollars until tomorrow?Right: Can you loan me five dollars until tomorrow?
Remember
Borrow = Bring. Loan = Leave.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Can I a pen to sign this contract?
- 2.
You can my electric car charger if your home station is currently out of order.
- 3.
The bank agreed to the young entrepreneur enough capital to start her sustainable fashion brand.
- 4.
I can you my umbrella if it's still raining.
- 5.
Many remote workers a desk at the local co-working space to improve their daily productivity.
15 / learn vs study
Study is the process of trying to understand a subject; learn is the moment you successfully acquire the knowledge or skill.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Did you study how to swim when you were a child?Right: Did you learn how to swim when you were a child?
Remember
Study is the work; learn is the result.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
She wants to Japanese before she moves to Tokyo next summer.
- 2.
You need to the user manual before you try to drive the new electric car safely.
- 3.
They usually in the library because it is quiet there.
- 4.
The researchers will how social networks affect the mental health of teenagers in large cities.
- 5.
It is quite difficult to a new language using only a mobile fitness app every morning.
16 / suggest vs recommend
Suggest proposes a possibility for consideration, while recommend provides a stronger endorsement based on personal belief or expertise.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I suggest this restaurant because the seafood is the best in town.Right: I recommend this restaurant because the seafood is the best in town.
Remember
Suggest = an idea. Recommend = a seal of approval.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
She didn't want to a specific time until everyone checked their calendars.
- 2.
I we switch to a different video call platform because the current one keeps lagging.
- 3.
You might a new strategy in the group chat to improve our team score.
- 4.
Most critics this film for its outstanding cinematography and acting.
- 5.
Most fitness apps that users complete at least thirty minutes of activity every day.
17 / avoid vs prevent
Avoid is staying away from a person or thing; prevent is stopping an event from occurring.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I always prevent the broken glass on the floor.Right: I always avoid the broken glass on the floor.
Wrong: We must avoid the fire from spreading to the next building.Right: We must prevent the fire from spreading to the next building.
Remember
Avoid the person; prevent the problem.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Drivers should the city center during the morning rush hour.
- 2.
New security measures were introduced to further data breaches.
- 3.
New updates for the fitness app help the software from crashing during a workout.
- 4.
Many fans arrived at the stadium early to the heavy traffic before the championship match.
- 5.
You should reading social media comments to stay focused while you work from home.
18 / discover vs realize
Discover is for finding something that already existed in the world; realize is for a sudden shift in your own understanding.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The explorers realized a new species of butterfly in the rainforest.Right: The explorers discovered a new species of butterfly in the rainforest.
Wrong: I just discovered that I left my keys in the car.Right: I just realized that I left my keys in the car.
Remember
Discover is finding a place; realize is finding a thought.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
You might suddenly that your microphone was muted for the first ten minutes of the call.
- 2.
We were surprised to a small stream running through the back of the property.
- 3.
Fans will hidden details in the game world if they take the time to explore every room.
- 4.
Most people don't how much work goes into maintaining a public park.
- 5.
Modern hikers often ancient trails when they use satellite maps to explore the local mountains.
19 / notice vs realize
Notice is for physical observation through the senses; realize is for a mental shift in understanding or sudden awareness of a fact.
Side by side
Detecting something with your senses.
I did not notice the small scratch on the car until this morning.
She noticed a strange smell coming from the kitchen when she walked in.
Suddenly understanding a fact or situation.
He did not realize the meeting had been cancelled until he arrived.
I suddenly realized that I had left my keys inside the locked house.
Watch out
Wrong: Did you realize the new haircut she got yesterday?Right: Did you notice the new haircut she got yesterday?
Wrong: I didn't notice that the train was leaving until it was too late.Right: I didn't realize that the train was leaving until it was too late.
Remember
Notice with your eyes; realize with your brain.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Users often do not how much data their fitness trackers collect during a typical gym session.
- 2.
Modern commuters often that electric cars are more efficient for city life after checking their apps.
- 3.
Did you the subtle camera movements in the opening scene of the new sci-fi series.
20 / look vs seem
Look focuses on visual evidence, while seem describes an internal impression or a general state.
Side by side
Appearance based on visual evidence.
The sky looks dark so we should probably bring an umbrella.
She looks exhausted after working that double shift at the hospital.
A general impression or subjective feeling.
They seem happy with the new arrangement despite the lower salary.
It seems like a good idea to start the project early.
Watch out
Wrong: The new manager seems tired today; his eyes are very red.Right: The new manager looks tired today; his eyes are very red.
Wrong: He looks to be a very intelligent person based on his speech.Right: He seems to be a very intelligent person based on his speech.
Remember
Look is for the eyes; seem is for the mind.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Remote work policies to improve employee happiness despite the lack of face to face social interaction.
- 2.
Professional gamers focused and intense during the final stages of a major international tournament.
- 3.
The new electric sports cars sleek and fast even when they are parked in the city.
21 / depend vs rely
Depend describes a logical or physical necessity where one thing is controlled by another, while rely emphasizes a personal sense of trust or confidence in someone's support.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The price of the house will rely on how many people want to buy it.Right: The price of the house will depend on how many people want to buy it.
Remember
Depend is for needs; rely is for trust.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Professional gamers often on high refresh rate monitors to react quickly during a match.
- 2.
Plants on a steady supply of sunlight and water to grow properly.
- 3.
Small businesses often on loyal local customers to stay profitable during the winter.
- 4.
The success of a remote team will on the speed of their home internet connection.
- 5.
Modern electric cars on a stable power grid to function effectively in large cities.
22 / consist vs contain
Consist describes the components that make up the whole, while contain describes what is held inside a space or container.
Side by side
to be made of specific parts
The final examination will consist of three separate essays and a short oral presentation.
A standard deck of playing cards consists of fifty-two cards divided into four suits.
to hold something within its boundaries
This orange juice might contain traces of nuts because of the factory's processing methods.
The old wooden crate contains several fragile glass bottles wrapped in thick brown paper.
Watch out
Wrong: The atmosphere contains of nitrogen, oxygen, and several other trace gases.Right: The atmosphere consists of nitrogen, oxygen, and several other trace gases.
Wrong: The locked safe consists of the original deeds to the family property.Right: The locked safe contains the original deeds to the family property.
Remember
Consist = The recipe. Contain = The box.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
These electric car batteries lithium and cobalt to store energy for long distance travel.
- 2.
The new fitness app workouts of high intensity intervals and recovery periods for maximum efficiency.
- 3.
Modern city life schedules often of remote work meetings and evening social events in the park.
23 / include vs contain
Include lists one or more parts of a larger group; contain describes what is physically or conceptually held inside a boundary.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The price of the tour contains all transportation and museum fees.Right: The price of the tour includes all transportation and museum fees.
Wrong: The envelope includes a check for five hundred dollars.Right: The envelope contains a check for five hundred dollars.
Remember
Include is a part; contain is the whole container.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Modern fitness apps often a feature to track your daily water intake and sleep patterns.
- 2.
The new electric car batteries high concentrations of lithium to improve their overall driving range.
- 3.
The premium streaming plans access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content for every major series.
- 4.
Please your phone number and address on the application form.
24 / comprise vs compose
Comprise describes the whole containing the parts, while compose describes the parts forming the whole.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Fifty states compose the United States of America.Right: Fifty states comprise the United States of America.
Wrong: The committee is comprised of five senior members and two students.Right: Five senior members and two students compose the committee.
Remember
The whole comprises the parts; the parts compose the whole.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Ten talented musicians the brass section of the city orchestra.
- 2.
Many different ingredients like oats and almond milk a trendy breakfast bowl.
- 3.
Diverse musical styles and digital samples often the soundtrack of a modern video game.
- 4.
Seven distinct committees the governing body of the local university.
- 5.
Large tech companies usually several smaller teams that focus on specific app features.
25 / borrow vs rent vs hire
Borrow is taking for free; rent is paying for long-term use; hire is paying for short-term use or labor.
Side by side
Taking something temporarily without paying.
Can I borrow your umbrella until the rain stops this afternoon?
Paying to use property or equipment.
They decided to rent a small apartment near the city center.
Paying for services or short-term use.
The company needs to hire a new accountant by next month.
Watch out
Wrong: Can I rent your pen for a second?Right: Can I borrow your pen for a second?
Wrong: I need to borrow a suit for the wedding because I don't own one.Right: I need to hire a suit for the wedding because I don't own one.
Remember
Borrow is free. Rent is a fee. Hire is for a person or a spree.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the three options.
- 1.
The local football club decided to a new fitness coach to improve the players' stamina this season.
- 2.
Students often books from the library for their research projects.
- 3.
It is often cheaper to a tuxedo than to buy one.
- 4.
Many young professionals choose to a small apartment in the city center to avoid a long commute.
- 5.
You can my portable power bank if your phone battery dies during the music festival tomorrow.
- 6.
We should a car for our weekend trip to the coast.
26 / arrive vs reach
Arrive focuses on the moment of appearance at a destination and requires a preposition, while reach focuses on the effort or distance covered and takes a direct object.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: What time does the flight reach at the airport?Right: What time does the flight arrive at the airport?
Wrong: We arrived the hotel very late last night.Right: We reached the hotel very late last night.
Remember
Arrive at a place; reach a goal.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Many professional gamers train for hours every single day to the highest rank in the global league.
- 2.
The delivery driver will at the apartment complex once the food order is ready for drop off.
- 3.
Most guests usually at the music festival early to secure a good spot near the main stage.
- 4.
It took us nearly three hours to the outskirts of the city.
- 5.
We didn't in London until after midnight because of the storm.
27 / get to vs arrive at/in
Get to is the informal way to describe the journey's end, while arrive is the formal choice for reaching a destination.
Side by side
reaching a place in conversation
We didn't get to the hotel until after midnight because of the heavy rain.
arrive at/in
Not English
reaching a destination formally
Remember
Get to is for talking; Arrive is for travel documents.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Call me as soon as you the office tomorrow morning.
- 2.
I need to the stadium early to find my seat before the football match begins.
- 3.
Let me know when you the cafe so I can order our oat milk lattes.
- 4.
The international delegates will the city tomorrow to discuss new climate policies for the decade.
28 / take vs carry
Take describes moving something from one place to another, while carry describes the physical act of supporting a weight while moving.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Can you carry these books back to the library for me?Right: Can you take these books back to the library for me?
Wrong: It is difficult to take a heavy suitcase up three flights of stairs.Right: It is difficult to carry a heavy suitcase up three flights of stairs.
Remember
Take is the destination; carry is the effort.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Please remember to your laptop when you leave the office for the remote work session tomorrow.
- 2.
I need to my car to the mechanic for an oil change.
- 3.
You should your phone to the gym so the fitness app can track your steps accurately.
- 4.
She had to her sleeping toddler all the way from the car.
- 5.
Modern electric cars must heavy battery packs that significantly increase the total weight of the vehicle.
29 / fetch vs bring
Bring is a one-way movement toward the speaker, while fetch is a two-way trip to go get something and return with it.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I forgot my umbrella at home, so I need to go bring it.Right: I forgot my umbrella at home, so I need to go fetch it.
Wrong: When you come to the party, please fetch a friend with you.Right: When you come to the party, please bring a friend with you.
Remember
Bring it here; fetch it and back.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
He promised to some dessert when he comes over for dinner tonight.
- 2.
You should a portable charger if you plan to stream the entire football match tonight.
- 3.
The dog loves to the ball whenever we go to the park.
- 4.
Please remember to your laptop to the coworking space for our afternoon strategy session.
- 5.
The delivery driver had to the package from the secure locker at the local station.
30 / borrow vs take
Borrow is to receive something temporarily with the intent to return it, while take is to remove something from a place or person.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Can I take your pen for a second? I will give it back.Right: Can I borrow your pen for a second? I will give it back.
Wrong: Don't forget to borrow your coat when you go out.Right: Don't forget to take your coat when you go out.
Remember
Borrow is a loan; take is a move.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
I need to your login for the streaming service to watch the new football documentary.
- 2.
Remember to your reusable coffee cup when you leave for the remote work hub today.
- 3.
You should a portable charger for the music festival if your phone battery dies quickly.
- 4.
He decided to the documents to the meeting himself.
- 5.
Students can up to five books from the library at once.
31 / ask vs ask for
Ask is for questions and information; ask for is for requesting a physical object or a specific action.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: She wanted to ask for his name and phone number.Right: She wanted to ask his name and phone number.
Wrong: I called the waiter to ask the bill.Right: I called the waiter to ask for the bill.
Remember
Ask a question. Ask for a thing.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
You should a glass of water if you feel faint.
- 2.
Modern city dwellers often a refund when their food delivery arrives cold or late.
- 3.
If you don't know the way, just someone for directions.
- 4.
You should the project manager about the next video call before the remote workday ends.
- 5.
Gamers frequently a patch to fix bugs after a major new title launches online.
32 / explain vs tell
Explain focuses on the details or reasons behind a topic, while tell focuses on the transfer of information to a specific person.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I will tell the situation to my parents tonight.Right: I will explain the situation to my parents tonight.
Wrong: He explained me the rules of the game.Right: He told me the rules of the game.
Remember
Explain the 'why'; tell the person.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Can you how this new software actually works?
- 2.
Please your team about the upcoming video call schedule before the remote work session starts.
- 3.
The fitness app will how the new algorithm calculates your daily recovery score after a workout.
- 4.
A climate scientist will the impact of electric cars on urban air quality during the live stream.
- 5.
She didn't her boss about the mistake until Friday.
33 / mention vs say
Say focuses on the words spoken, while mention is a brief, incidental reference to a topic.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: He said your name during the meeting but didn't give details.Right: He mentioned your name during the meeting but didn't give details.
Wrong: I forgot to mention goodbye before I left the office.Right: I forgot to say goodbye before I left the office.
Remember
Mention is a touch; say is the whole story.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Did he when the project deadline was supposed to be?
- 2.
You should always hello when you join a video call for your remote work meeting.
- 3.
The host did not the new fitness app during the latest podcast episode about healthy living.
- 4.
The instructions that we need to restart the computer now.
- 5.
Please do not the ending of the streaming series in our group chat before I finish it.
34 / see vs look
See is the passive act of noticing with your eyes, while look is the active direction of your gaze.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Can you look the car in the parking lot?Right: Can you see the car in the parking lot?
Wrong: I saw at the map for ten minutes but couldn't find the street.Right: I looked at the map for ten minutes but couldn't find the street.
Remember
See is a sense; look is a choice.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
You should at the screen during the video call to show you are paying attention.
- 2.
If you a notification for the new fitness app, let me know so I can download it.
- 3.
Did you that bird fly past the window just now?
- 4.
The fans always at the big screen to check the replay after a controversial football goal.
- 5.
If you closely, you can see the tiny details in the painting.
35 / look vs watch
Look is the act of directing your eyes toward something, while watch is the act of paying attention to something in motion over time.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: Watch at this photo of my family from last summer.Right: Look at this photo of my family from last summer.
Wrong: I stayed up late to look at the football match.Right: I stayed up late to watch the football match.
Remember
Look is a glance; watch is a movie.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Please at the shared screen during our video call to see the latest project updates.
- 2.
If you closely, you can see the small bird in the tree.
- 3.
If you have time this weekend, we should the new documentary about sustainable city life.
- 4.
The security guard had to the monitors for any suspicious activity.
- 5.
Fans often gather at the local pub to the national football team play live matches.
36 / see vs watch
See is the passive reception of light; watch is the active focus on a moving target.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: If you watch carefully, you can watch a small scar on his arm.Right: If you watch carefully, you can see a small scar on his arm.
Wrong: I stayed home to see the football game on TV.Right: I stayed home to watch the football game on TV.
Remember
See is a sense; watch is a choice.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
I usually several electric cars parked near the charging station on my way to work.
- 2.
Did you that bird fly past the kitchen just now?
- 3.
The fans gathered at the sports bar to the final match of the football tournament.
- 4.
We decided to the new streaming series together while we waited for our food delivery.
- 5.
They stayed up late to the final match on television.
37 / notice vs see
See is the physical ability to use your eyes, while notice is the act of paying attention to a specific detail.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: I saw that he was wearing two different socks and started laughing.Right: I noticed that he was wearing two different socks and started laughing.
Wrong: It was so dark in the cave that I couldn't notice anything.Right: It was so dark in the cave that I couldn't see anything.
Remember
See is the sense; notice is the observation.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Most viewers did not the small technical glitch during the live stream of the championship game.
- 2.
If you look through the window of the electric car you can the minimalist interior design.
- 3.
I can't the whiteboard clearly without wearing my glasses.
- 4.
Did you the subtle changes in the latest update to your favorite fitness tracking app.
- 5.
Did you the strange smell coming from the kitchen this morning?
38 / discover vs find out
Discover describes finding something that already existed but was unknown to the world, while find out describes learning new information or facts through effort or by chance.
Side by side
finding something previously unknown to everyone
Archaeologists recently discovered a hidden chamber beneath the ancient temple ruins.
find out
learning information or a specific fact
I need to find out what time the train leaves tomorrow morning.
Watch out
Wrong: Astronomers want to find out a new galaxy in the deep sky.Right: Astronomers want to discover a new galaxy in the deep sky.
Wrong: I need to discover why the printer isn't working today.Right: I need to find out why the printer isn't working today.
Remember
Discover is for hidden things; find out is for hidden facts.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
You can check the fitness app to how many calories you burned during the morning workout.
- 2.
Scientists hope to a new planet in the outer solar system this year.
- 3.
The gamers joined a private discord server to the secret location of the rare legendary item.
- 4.
She was shocked to that her neighbors were moving away.
- 5.
Marine biologists hope to new species of coral while exploring the remote parts of the deep ocean.
39 / understand vs realize
Understand is the ongoing state of knowing how something works; realize is the sudden moment of becoming aware of a fact.
Side by side
To grasp the meaning or logic.
I don't understand why the software keeps crashing after the latest update.
She understands the complex mathematical theories behind the new research project.
To suddenly become aware of something.
I didn't realize that the meeting had been moved to the afternoon.
He suddenly realized he had left his keys inside the locked apartment.
Watch out
Wrong: Do you realize how this engine functions?Right: Do you understand how this engine functions?
Wrong: I didn't understand that you were standing right behind me.Right: I didn't realize that you were standing right behind me.
Remember
Understand is a state; realize is a spark.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
I did not the fitness app was still tracking my location after the workout ended.
- 2.
The gamer did not the stream was still live while they were talking to their family.
- 3.
Many remote workers find it difficult to the complex privacy settings on new video call software.
40 / because vs because of
Because introduces a clause with a subject and a verb, while because of is a preposition that precedes a noun or noun phrase.
Side by side
introduces a reason with a full clause
The flight was delayed because the pilot arrived late to the airport.
introduces a reason with a noun
The game was cancelled because of the heavy rain this morning.
Watch out
Wrong: We couldn't go for a walk because of it was raining.Right: We couldn't go for a walk because it was raining.
Wrong: The shop closed early because the snow.Right: The shop closed early because of the snow.
Remember
Because + Clause; Because of + Noun.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
She missed the meeting a technical problem with her laptop.
- 2.
The video call was disconnected a sudden failure in the local internet connection.
- 3.
Many professionals now prefer remote work the long daily commute to the city.
- 4.
The match was postponed the pitch was completely flooded after the heavy storm.
- 5.
We stayed inside all afternoon it was raining heavily outside.
41 / result vs consequence
Result is the neutral outcome of an action, while consequence implies a negative or serious logical follow-up.
Side by side
The final score or neutral outcome.
The test result confirmed that the water was safe for the city to drink.
A negative or serious logical effect.
He had to face the legal consequence of driving without a valid license.
Watch out
Wrong: If you keep skipping class, you will have to face the results.Right: If you keep skipping class, you will have to face the consequences.
Remember
Result is the score; consequence is the penalty.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Rising sea levels are a direct of global temperature increases.
- 2.
The loss of followers on the social network was a direct of his controversial video post.
- 3.
A serious of missing the video call is that you might lose your remote work privileges.
- 4.
The fitness app showed a positive after she finished the thirty day strength training challenge.
- 5.
We are still waiting for the final of the local election.
42 / allow vs let
Allow requires the to-infinitive, while let requires the bare infinitive.
Side by side
Watch out
Wrong: The teacher didn't let us to use our phones.Right: The teacher didn't allow us to use our phones.
Wrong: My boss won't allow me leave early today.Right: My boss won't let me leave early today.
Remember
Allow to; let go.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
The guard wouldn't the visitors pass without showing their identification.
- 2.
The security settings on the group chat will not anyone join without an invite link.
- 3.
My parents me to stay out late on the weekends.
- 4.
Modern smart home apps users to control their heating while they are still at the office.
- 5.
New environmental regulations cities to create pedestrian zones in the busiest shopping districts.
43 / make vs cause
Make focuses on the result or forced action, while cause focuses on the origin of a negative or neutral event.
Side by side
To produce a result or force action.
The sad movie always makes me cry at the end.
His boss made him finish the report before leaving the office.
To be the reason something happens.
The heavy rain caused a massive traffic jam on the highway.
A small electrical spark caused the fire in the kitchen.
Watch out
Wrong: Loud music causes me feel very energetic.Right: Loud music makes me feel very energetic.
Wrong: The icy roads made a serious accident this morning.Right: The icy roads caused a serious accident this morning.
Remember
Make leads to a result; cause starts a problem.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
Heavy rain and strong winds often a delay in the local football match schedule.
- 2.
Technical issues with the server can a sudden disconnect during an intense online gaming session.
- 3.
New filters on the social media app your photos look like professional studio portraits.
44 / lead to vs result in
Lead to focuses on the process or path that starts a chain of events, while result in focuses on the final outcome or consequence.
Side by side
starts a process or sequence
Poor communication between the departments can lead to serious delays in production.
result in
produces a final consequence
The heavy rainstorm resulted in several flooded basements across the neighborhood.
A small technical error resulted in the loss of all the unsaved data.
Watch out
Wrong: The investigation will result in more questions than answers.Right: The investigation will lead to more questions than answers.
Remember
Lead to is the path; result in is the destination.
Quick check
Fill the gap with one of the two options.
- 1.
The new government policy will likely a significant increase in investment.
- 2.
A minor bug in the new gaming update could a total system crash during online play.
- 3.
Poor urban planning and a lack of bike lanes usually increased traffic congestion in modern cities.
- 4.
Excessive notifications on your fitness app often a loss of focus during morning remote work sessions.