Dear Master’s
Programs student,
In a recent staff
meeting, a coworker suggested we do a series on confused words. Based on some recent student work that I’ve
seen, I thought this was an appropriate topic for the weekly tip.
Complement
vs. Compliment
Complement (verb): to bring completion
or perfection to. It can also be a noun
(something that brings perfection).
Compliment (verb): to praise or admire. It can also be a noun (a statement of praise).
E.g. This beer,
imported from Holland, is the perfect complement
to our dinner themed “around the world.”
E.g. I complimented Betty Draper on her fine
complexion.
Tip: Remember “I like compliments” to help you keep these
two words straight.
Principal
vs. Principle
Principal (adjective): primary, main
Principal (noun): a person who holds the
leading part, as the ~ of a school
Principle (noun): a fundamental belief;
a rule of action
E.g. My principal reason for waking up is to
play the principal in the new
musical.
E.g. Despite his
strong principles against public
inebriation, Marvin was persuaded to have one extra beer at the pub.
Tip: The principal of a
school should be your pal!
Accept
vs. Except
Accept (verb): to receive willingly;
to agree to
Except (preposition): excluding, with
the exception of
E.g. Cersei Lannister
found the Stark’s proposal ridiculous and refused to accept the terms of the treaty.
E.g. All of Ned’s
children, except Jon Snow, were
birthed by Lady Catelyn and are legitimate heirs.
Tip: The “X” in except excludes
things.
Elicit
vs. Illicit
Elicit (verb): to evoke; to draw
forth
Illicit (adjective): unlawful
E.g. Mrs.
Blankenship’s passing elicited tears
from her sentimental coworkers, but others considered her death an
inconvenience.
E.g. George’s
continuing illicit drug-use shows
flagrant disregard for the law.
Tip:
Something illicit
is illegal.
Happy (principled)
writing!
James
James
