|
| it’s |
it is |
It’s really windy out there. |
| its |
possessive of it |
The nightclub closed its doors, never to reopen them. |
|
| affect |
almost always used as a verb |
My uncle’s death affected me in ways I would never have guessed. |
| effect |
almost always used as a noun |
My uncle’s death didn’t have much effect on my sister. |
|
| complement |
verb or noun indicating completion |
The carnation on his lapel perfectly complemented his vintage suit. |
| compliment |
verb or noun indicating praise |
She blushed each time I complimented her smile. |
|
| everyday |
adjective meaning common or ordinary |
Hitting the beach after school was an everyday occurrence. |
| every day |
adjective and noun describing an action that occurs over several days |
He got up before sunrise every day so he could be at the beach by 5:00. |
|
| continuous |
unceasing, without interruption |
The continuous rainfall kept me up all night. |
| continual |
frequently recurring |
The continual sound of my neighbor’s car alarm has driven me to invest in ear plugs. |
|
| assure |
used for promises made directly to other people |
He assured us the bear was tame, but we still kept our distance. |
| ensure |
used for promises of an outcome |
He ensured his audience’s safety by feeding the animals just before each show. |
| insure |
used for financial contexts |
He insured his vehicle against damage by wildlife. |
