VOCABULARY - Confusing Words (INTERMEDIATE)

Accept vs. Except

“Accept” means to receive. “Except” means to leave out of a group or take away.

Affect vs. Effect

“Affect” is a verb meaning to influence. “Effect” is a noun meaning result.

Capital vs. Capitol

“Capital” is the seat of government. “Capitol” is the building where the legislative body meets.

Compliment vs. Complement

“Compliment” is saying something nice. “Complement” is something that completes or matches something else.

Council vs. Counsel

“Council” is a group that makes decisions together. “Counsel” is a verb meaning advise.

Descent vs. Dissent

“Descent” means a decline. “Dissent” means to disagree or oppose.

Lose vs. Loose

“Lose” means to not win or you can't find something. “Loose” means roomy or unrestrained.

Precede vs. Proceed

“Precede” means to come before. “Proceed” means to continue or go forward.

Principal vs. Principle

“Principal” means the main person or part. “Principle” means a fundamental truth.

Stationary vs. Stationery

“Stationary” means standing still. “Stationery” means paper to write on.