Word Choice

Nauseous and nauseated have two different definitions, but recently they have become almost interchangeable. (more…)

If you’ve ever given a speech or lecture, you more than likely have used a stand called a lectern as a place to lay your papers or notes. However, you probably didn’t refer to the stand as a lectern. Like most people, you probably called it a podium. But a podium is actually a raised platform used to stand upon when speaking in front of a group. Remember that you stand behind a lectern, while you stand on a podium. (more…)

According to Merriam-Webster Online, preventive and preventative (as  in preventive or preventative medicine) are interchangeable. Both words originate in the 1600s, though preventive precedes preventative by about 40 years.

My preferred word of choice? Preventive: it has one less syllable and rolls off the tongue more easily.

See also: Merriam-Webster Dictionary’s entries for preventive and preventative.

Stationary and stationery are confused probably more by their similar spellings than by their definitions, which are quite different. The one-letter spelling difference in these two words makes them easy to confuse.

Stationary with an “a” means “not moving”: The dog lay stationary in the hot sun.

Stationery (with an “e”) refers to writing materials, usually paper.

The way I remember the difference between the two is by associating the  “e” in stationery with envelopes, because envelopes are often used with writing materials.

“Who/that” mix-ups are quite common because many people believe that the words may be used interchangeably. In fact, that refers to an object or animal, while who refers to a person.

Incorrect: I hate people that talk on their cell phones while driving.
Correct: I hate people who talk on their cell phones while driving.

Incorrect: If you are a person that can’t sit still for five minutes…
Correct: If you are a person who can’t sit still for five minutes…

Incorrect: He’s a guy that can strike a lot of guys out.
Correct: He’s a guy who can strike a lot of guys out.

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This post was submitted by Elliot.