Confusing Words

Is it sleight of hand or slight of hand? The correct spelling is sleight of hand. While the movements of a magician might be “slight” (small or thin), the word sleight is an old noun meaning skill, dexterity, or trickery. Simply remember that slight means small and sleight means skill. Sleight and slight Yes, the…

Is it straight-laced or strait-laced? While straight-laced is now commonly seen and often accepted, the historically correct spelling is strait-laced. The word “strait” means narrow or tight (think of a “straitjacket” or a “strait” of water). It refers to the tight lacing of a corset, symbolizing a person with narrow or rigid moral standards. The…

The vocabulary we use when writing about the Internet and technology is constantly evolving. Deciding whether to use web page or webpage is a perfect example, even if both are correct and acceptable. When we use words that start with web, there is often a choice between a one-word or two-word variant. But which one…

Is it disinterested or uninterested? While they sound similar, they have different meanings, which can trip you up in writing. Use uninterested if you are bored or don’t care. Use disinterested if you are impartial, unbiased, and have no “stake” in the outcome (like a judge or a referee). The difference between disinterested and uninterested…

Is it poured or pored? Use poured (with a “u”) when talking about liquids or things that flow, like water or coffee. Use pored (without a “u”) when talking about studying or reading something intently, as in “pored over the books.” A simple trick is to remember that you pour with a Urn but you…

Is it use to or used to? Most of the time, the correct form is used to (with a “d”). However, when you use the helping verb did or didn’t, the “d” disappears, and it becomes use to. Quick rule: Used to → past habits: He used to live in London. Use to → after did/didn’t:…

Is there a difference between make sure and ensure? Yes. While they both aim for the same result, they differ in the “weight” of the statement. Make sure is used as a simple reminder or a way to say “don’t forget.” Ensure, however, implies a formal guarantee or an obligation to make certain that a specific…

When do you use between or among? Many of us were taught that “between” is only for two people and “among” is for three or more. However, this is a myth and is not true at all. We use between when referring to distinct, individual items (even if there are more than two). Use among…

The words, until, till, and ’til, and even ‘till, often confuse writers, even though they are very common words we use in writing. Which ones are right, and how do you use them correctly? In most cases, the words are prepositions and share the same or similar meaning of saying up to a certain point…

Is it damp squib or damp squid? The correct phrase is damp squib. A “squib” is a small firework or explosive. If it gets damp, it fails to ignite—which is why the phrase describes something that was expected to be exciting but turned out to be a disappointing failure. As with all idioms and metaphors,…