Apr 18
This is another post about English language usage.
The word “may” expresses likelihood.
The word “might” expresses a stronger sense of doubt.
It is a difference of degree.
You may be right means there’s a possibility that you are right.
You might be right means you could be right. Or not.
If you think you need help with English language usage, you may be right!
Permanent link to this article: http://writingitrightforyou.com/home/2012/04/18/may-or-might/
Feb 28
Empathy and sympathy are similar, but not the same. When to use which word depends on the context.
*empathy* means the ability to better understand a person’s or point of view because you yourself have experienced something similar.
*sympathy* means feeling compassion for another’s person’s feelings or point of view although you have probably not been in the same situation or same place.
According to dictionary.com, you feel empathy when you’ve “been there”, and you feel “sympathy” when you haven’t “been there” (literally or figuratively).
If you need help with confusing word pairs, the awesome writers and editors at Writing It Right For You can emphasize! We’ve been there! We can also sympathize and we’re ready to work with you!
What word pairs confuse you? Let us know in the comments section!
Permanent link to this article: http://writingitrightforyou.com/home/2012/02/28/empathy-or-sympathy/
Feb 06
Here’s another word pair that is often confusing for people. These words are called homophones–which mean they sound alike (same sound), but have different meanings.
* stationary (with an a) is a verb which means still, not moving, in one place.
* stationery (with an e) is a noun that names the paper used for formal written communication–either personal or business.
For a high-tech way to remember which word to use when, remember that you use email to send digital communication and stationery for hand-written or printed formal communication.
The professional writing and editing team at Writing It Right For You is ready to help you with any projects–confusing or not!
Are there any other homophones that confuse you? Let us know in the comments section!
Permanent link to this article: http://writingitrightforyou.com/home/2012/02/06/stationary-or-stationery-which-one-when/
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