We have all had those times when we’ve said a word and then paused, wondering if we’ve used it correctly.
Whether it’s because they sound similar to others or we think they mean something they don’t, using the wrong words can leave even the smartest person sounding a bit off.
Here are 12 words that often trip people up. This might save you from a few embarrassing moments.
Featured Image Credit: Ash & Pri.
Literally
“Literally” is a troublemaker because it’s supposed to mean something that actually happened. But most of us use it to emphasize things that didn’t actually happen.
For example, saying, “I literally died laughing.” Unless it actually involved a resurrection, what we really mean is we laughed really hard. Using “literally” incorrectly can certainly get you some weird looks.
Irony
People throw around “irony” when they often mean a funny coincidence. True irony is when something happens that’s the exact opposite of what you’d expect, like a fire truck catching fire.
Irony and coincidences, whether good or bad, are not the same thing. As such, you should keep irony straight to make your stories pack more punch.
Irregardless
English teachers have been debating this one for years. While “irregardless” might sound fancy, the word everyone’s reaching for is “regardless,” which means “without concern.”
Adding that extra “ir-” at the beginning is overkill and grammatically incorrect. If you stick with “regardless,” you’ll sound a lot smarter.
Peruse
If someone asks you to peruse a document, they’re not asking for a glance — as “peruse” means to read something carefully and thoroughly.
Agreeing to do it means you should be ready to pay attention to the details. As common as this mix-up might be, it’s still one that can lead to major misunderstandings.
Nauseous
Saying “I feel nauseous” is a common mistake. Why? Because “nauseous” means something that causes nausea; not feeling sick to your stomach.
If you’re feeling queasy, the correct word is “nauseated.” Two letters make quite a difference. So the next time you don’t feel too great, make sure you use the right word.
Enormity
You’d think “enormity” is about size, wouldn’t you? But it actually involves the severity of something, usually something terrible.
For example, if you’re talking about the enormity of an earthquake, you’re talking about its devastating impact instead of how big it was.
Bemused
When you’re laughing at a joke, you’re “amused.” However, if you’re “bemused,” you’re actually confused or bewildered; it’s quite a funny mix-up.
But either way, you should make sure you get the word right.
Disinterested
Here’s where things get difficult. “Disinterested” doesn’t mean you’re bored but actually that you’re neutral; you have no opinion on it whatsoever.
When you mean you don’t care about something, the word you’re looking for is “uninterested.” Making a little switch like this can really change the impression you’re giving off.
Criteria vs. Criterion
“Criteria” are the standards for judging something and that’s when you’re talking about more than one.
The singular form, meaning just one standard, is a “criterion.” Whenever you mix these up, it can confuse other people over how many standards you’re actually talking to them about.
Comprise
“Comprise” means to include all parts or elements, yet saying “comprised of” is a common mistake.
If you say, “The USA comprises 50 states,” you’re correct but “The USA is comprised of 50 states” is technically wrong. As subtle of a mistake as it is, getting the word right shows you’ve got a handle on the details.
Accept vs. Except
Mixing up “accept” and “except” can make a conversation pretty confusing.
“Accept” means to agree with something or to receive something willingly, like accepting a job offer, while “except” is to exclude something, like when you say, “I love all ice cream flavors except for mint.” Remember the difference.
Principal vs. Principle
Here’s another pair that can trip you up.
“Principal” usually means the head of a school or an adjective meaning the most important. For example, the principal reason you go to work is probably the paycheck.
“Principle,” though, always refers to an important truth or the base standard of behavior. Stick to your principles and not your principals.
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