September 17, 2009

Tricky Words

The following words seem to create confusion. Go through the list to see if it includes words you use and if you are using them correctly. This list will help you find just the right word and its correct usage.

A While, Awhile

While means a period of time, awhile means for a period of time. Thus, the sentence "She will be gone for awhile" is incorrect, as it doubles up on the word for. So, write "She will be gone for a while" or " She will be gone awhile."

Complement, Compliment

Complement is both a verb and a noun, meaning to complete a whole or satisfy a need. Compliment also functions as both verb and noun, meaning praise.

Rahul's efforts complemented those of the rest of the team. (verb)

A complement of fifteen laborers performed the task. (noun)

Rohan complemented her on the cake she had baked.(verb)

His compliment was sincere. (noun)

Due to, Because of

In formal writing, careful writers use because of to indicate a cause-and-effect relationship and keep due to for use after forms of the verb to be.

The driver lost control of the bus because of faulty brakes.

The accident was due to faulty brakes.

Advice, Advise

The noun advice means a suggestion or opinion concerning a course of action. The verb advise means to give advice. Someone who gives advice is either an adviser or an advisor; both spellings being correct.