Differences between English words
The English language has many words that are similar in meaning, but have subtle differences in usage. This can be confusing for native speakers and learners alike. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common English words that are often confused, and explain the difference between them.
Affect vs. Effect
Affect is a verb that means to influence or change something. Effect is a noun that means a result or consequence.
Examples:
- The new law will affect the way we do business.
- The effects of the earthquake were devastating.
A good rule of thumb is to use affect as a verb and effect as a noun. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
Effect can also be used as a verb when it means to bring about or cause something to happen.
Affect can also be used as a noun in psychology to refer to an emotional state.
Examples:
- The government effected a number of changes to the economy.
- The patient’s affect was flat and emotionless.
Later vs. Latter
Later is an adverb that means at a time after the present. Latter is an adjective that means of the two mentioned previously.
Examples:
- I’ll see you later.
- Of the two sisters, the latter is the older one.
A good way to distinguish between later and latter is to remember that later is used to refer to time, while latter is used to refer to order.
Inside vs. Inside of
Inside is an adverb or adjective that means within. Inside of is a prepositional phrase that means the same thing as inside.
Examples:
- The cat is inside the house.
- The book is inside of the drawer.
- Both inside and inside of are correct, but inside is more common.
Between vs. Among
Between is used to refer to two things. Among is used to refer to three or more things.
Examples:
- The ball is between the two trees.
- The teacher divided the students among the four groups.
- If you are unsure whether to use between or among, it is always safe to use among.
