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Aaron Harmon Pay attention to the meaning of every word you use in your essay. There are many English words that look and/or sound similar, but have very different meanings. If you are unsure of a definition, look it up. One wrong word—using illicit when you mean elicit, for example—can completely change the meaning of an otherwise well-written sentence. A number of these errors can also make your reader question your grasp of the language.
The following is a list of commonly confused word pairs or groups, with brief definitions. Check your essay for them, making sure you have used the correct word. You might want to make flash cards for each pair or group, and use them so your future writing improves.
Choosing the right words also means being aware of the many commonly misused ones. You may find examples of misused words in the media, on bill boards and other signs, in speech, and in everyday writing. In fact, even when used incorrectly, these words often sound acceptable to many writers. But they will stand out to admissions officers as glaring errors. Take the time to review the following words and avoid embarrassing mistakes.
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