Doubt

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 16, 2013

Mantel / Mantle

Both spellings can refer to the shelf over the fireplace that holds pictures, trophies and dust, but if we’re referring to the cloak, we use “mantle.” If the shelf is spelled as “mantel” consistently and the cloak is spelled as “mantle,” then we avoid unnecessary confusion.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 15, 2013

Lusty / Lustfull

“Lusty” means healthy and strong, full of vigor. The lusty sons of Farmer Smith painted the town red. Lustful, on the other hand, defines strong sexual desire. Mrs. Cunningham eyed Farmer Smith’s sons with a lustful gaze.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 14, 2013

Neither Nor / Either Or

“Neither” and “nor” belong together in a construction. “Either” and “or” belong together. We use them in sets and we do not mix them. “Neither” is used in the negative. Neither Jane nor her friends are going to the party. “Either” is used to indicate an alternative. Either Joe or his brother will pick Jane up after the party.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 13, 2013

Obsolescent / Obsolete

We have noticed this term incorrectly used in several publications. “Obsolete” means something is no longer available or out of date. “Obsolescent” is something on its way to becoming obsolete. “Obsolete” things underwent a process of obsolescence

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 12, 2013

Impact / Impacted

“Impact” is a noun meaning either “a collision” or “the effect of one thing on another.” His impact on the lives of others was minimal. “Impacted” is an adjective meaning “wedged in” or “blocked.” Bowels can become impacted, as can a tooth, but we can’t impact someone’s life unless we manage to jam it into a passage. “Impact” is often used as a verb like this. If we find ourselves writing “have an impact on,” we’re using the word incorrectly.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 11, 2013

Fly By / Flyby

“Fly by” is the verb and “flyby,” the noun. Lost in the promise of her décolletage, the afternoon flew by for him. We have enough fuel for another flyby over the herd.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 10, 2013

Literally / Virtually

“Literally” means “word for word”, or actual fact. Writers often use this word when what we mean is “practically” or “figuratively.” What we should be using is “virtually” in most cases. Use of the word “literally” can often have an amusing effect, even when humor isn’t intended. I literally died when he looked at me. Really? She died? Well, how is she still telling the story? We avoid using “literally” unless we literally mean what we’re saying.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 09, 2013

Historic / Historical

“Historic” refers to important actions or events in history. “Historical” refers to any past events. The European Community is a historic blunder. Historical evidence should have been enough to prevent it.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 08, 2013

Plug In / Plugin

“Plug in” is the verb and “plugin,” the noun. I forgot to plug in the lawnmower. The program won’t work without the latest plugin.

Compiled by OFW editor: Amitabh Dhar Publish Date: September 07, 2013

Inter / Internment

To “inter” someone is to bury him, once he’s dead of course. To suffer “internment” is to be locked up.

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