Common English Errors - Improve Your English Signon Connect

Listing Results Common English Errors - Improve Your English Signon Connect

About 14 results and 8 answers.

Common English Errors Learn common mistakes in

12 hours ago

  • 7 Grammar Errors that Drive British People CRAZY These are the grammar mistakes and phrases that drive British people crazy. 1 year ago 3.4K Views
  • 9 Cringe-Worthy Grammar Bloopers Nearly Everybody Makes Nearly all of us make some of these embarrassing grammar mistakes without even realizing it. Check out the list to see if you’re aware of these flubs. 2 years ago 3.2K Views

Show more

See More

101 Common Errors in English – Do You Make These

4 hours ago

  • 1. There Vs. Their Vs. They’re 1. There Vs. Their Vs. They’reThe first refers to a place, the second to something owned by a group and the third is a contraction. While we all know what they mean and what they are used for, we often tend to use them incorrectly in our sentences. You must check your text for these errors as they change the meaning of the sentence.Here’s an example of the correct usage of these three words:They’re going to go there to eat because they heard their food is awesome.
  • 2. You’re Vs. Your 2. You’re Vs. Your‘You’re’ means being something, while ‘your’ means owning something. ‘You’re’ is a contraction and ‘your’ is a possessive pronoun.For example:You ate all that food. You’re definitely very hungry.Your food is waiting for you at the table.
  • 3. Its Vs. It’s 3. Its Vs. It’sThis is a common English mistake that even the best of the writers make when . Its is possessive. On the other hand, it’s is a contraction of it is.For example:That is its box.It’s going to be a great party.
  • 4. Incomplete Comparisons 4. Incomplete ComparisonsMany of us make the mistake of making incomplete comparisons. If you are using comparative words for something, then you must compare it to something.For example:My car is better, stronger and faster.Your car is better, stronger and faster than what? You are comparing your car to something, but you just left the sentence halfway there. When using comparative words, you must always clarify what you are comparing it with so that your sentence is complete.
  • 5. Passive Vs. Active Voice 5. Passive Vs. Active Voice tend to use a lot of passive voice in their writing. Passive voice is when you put the object of the sentence at the beginning and the subject at the end. Active voice, on the other hand, has the object at the end and the subject at the beginning of the sentence.Passive voice makes a sentence clunky and vague, whereas active voice makes it short and easy to understand.For example:The ball was thrown by him. Passive Voice.He threw the ball. Active Voice.Do you see how changing the place of the subject and object changes the complexity of the sentence? Use as much active voice in your sentences as you can.
  • 6. Dangling Modifiers 6. Dangling ModifiersDangling modifiers are phrases or words that modify a word that isn’t clearly stated in the sentence. We often make the mistake of using dangling modifiers in our sentences. In these sentences, it isn’t clear what is being modified.For example:At the age of seventeen, my mother took me to New York.The phrase, ‘at the age of seventeen’, is a dangling modifier here. It changes the meaning of the sentence altogether. The sentence implies that his mother took him to New York when she was seventeen. However, what the wants to say is that his mother took him to New York when he was seventeen.This can be avoided simply by adding a few more words to the sentence or rearranging it.For example:At the age of seventeen, I was taken to New York by my mother.OrWhen I was seventeen, my mother took me to New York.
  • 7. Referring to an Entity or a Brand as ‘They’ 7. Referring to an Entity or a Brand as ‘They’Another common mistake many people make is referring to a business, entity or brand as ‘they’.For example:To keep up with their increasing demand, Coca Cola installed a new manufacturing plant.Here the word ‘their’ is used incorrectly. The correct sentence is,To keep up with its increasing demand, Coca Cola installed a new manufacturing plant.A brand, business or entity should always be referred to as ‘it’.
  • 8. Possessive Nouns 8. Possessive NounsPossessive nouns mostly have an apostrophe. However, many people place the apostrophe in the wrong place.For example,All of the kid’s bags were blue in color.In this sentence, ‘all’ implies that we are talking about more than one kid. However, ‘kid’s’ suggests that there is only one. This can be really confusing for the reader. In addition, it is also a grammatical mistake.Here are some general rules to follow when it comes to placing apostrophes.An apostrophe comes after the s when the noun is plural.If the noun is singular, the apostrophe comes before the s.If the noun is singular and ends in an s, then the apostrophe comes after the s.
  • 9. Effect Vs. Affect 9. Effect Vs. Affect‘Affect’ is a verb which means the act of changing. On the other hand, ‘effect’ means the change itself. Using these two words interchangeably is a common mistake that many people make.For example:This incident had a great effect on me.This incident affected me greatly.
  • 10. Me Vs. I 10. Me Vs. IMany writers make the mistake of incorrectly using ‘me’ and ‘I’ in sentences. While we understand what the two words mean, we still use them incorrectly in sentences.For example,‘Jack and me went to the movies’.Here the correct pronoun should be ‘I’ and not ‘me’.The correct sentence will be,‘Jack and I went to the movies’.A simple trick to get it right is to eliminate all other subjects from the sentence and then read it to see if it sounds right.In this example, if you remove Jack, you are left with ‘Me went to the movies’, which sounds completely wrong. You can always find the right pronoun by using this trick.
  • 11. To Vs. Too 11. To Vs. TooTo is used to describe an action, a recipient or a destination. Too, on the other hand, is an alternative to ‘as well’ and ‘also’. We often forget to add the additional ‘o’ when we are writing in a hurry.For example: ‘He too delivered the books to his teacher’.
  • 12. Dos and Don’ts 12. Dos and Don’tsUsing the apostrophe at the right place can be confusing when we are writing “do’s and don’ts”. While these words don’t completely follow the rules of grammar, most people tend to follow the APA style.So, unless you are following some other format of writing, “do’s and don’ts”’ must be written like this.
  • 13. e.g. Vs. i.e. 13. e.g. Vs. i.e.e.g. is a short form for ‘example given’ while i.e. is used for ‘that is’ or ‘in other words’. Many people make the mistake of using it interchangeably. Therefore, you must check for text for this common error in English before you send it through to someone or publish it.
  • 14. Peak Vs. Peek Vs. Pique 14. Peak Vs. Peek Vs. PiqueThis is another common mistake many people make. People use these words interchangeably when they mean completely different things.Peek means taking a quick look at something.Peak refers to a sharp point, usually mountains.Pique means to instigate or provoke.Be careful when using any of these words in your writing and make sure that you are using the right spelling.
  • 15. That Vs. Who 15. That Vs. Who‘Who’ is used when you are describing a person, while ‘that’ is used to describe an object. Many people confuse the two when using them and often end up using the wrong word in the wrong place.For example:Amy is the doctor who works night shifts.This is the car that broke down.
  • 16. Whose Vs. Who’s 16. Whose Vs. Who’s‘Whose’ assigns ownership of something to someone. Who’s, on the other hand, is a contraction for who is. It is used for the identification of a living being.For example:Whose book is this?Who’s going to the store with me?
  • 17. Who Vs. Whom 17. Who Vs. Whom‘Who’ is used for the identification of a living pronoun. ‘Whom’ is used to describe someone who is at the receiving end of something.For example:Who is this girl?Whom did you hire for this job?
  • 18. A lot Vs. Alot Vs. Allot 18. A lot Vs. Alot Vs. AllotFirst things first, ‘alot’ is not a word. Many people use it in their writing, but it is wrong. ‘A lot’ refers to a vast number of things. Allot, on the other hand, means setting something aside for a task.For example:There are a lot of fruits in the market.They allot half of their time to training and development sessions.
  • 19. In to Vs. Into 19. In to Vs. Into‘Into’ indicates movement. ‘In to’ can be used in a variety of situations because ‘in’ and ‘to’ can be used in different ways in a sentence.For example:She walked into the house calmly.They were called in to a meeting.
  • 20. Lose Vs. Loose 20. Lose Vs. LooseLose means ‘failing, unable to find something or simply failing to hold or keep’. Loose means ‘not tightly attached, held or fastened’. Lose is a verb, while loose is an adjective.For example:Don’t lose your friend.The shirt looks loose on him.
  • 21. Then Vs. Than 21. Then Vs. Than‘Then’ is used to locate actions in time, while ‘than’ is a conjunction used for comparisons.For example:She is a better singer than her sister.We went to a restaurant and then we had food.
  • 22. Comma Usage 22. Comma UsageCommas must be used correctly in the text. There are many things to consider when putting a comma in a sentence. has created a complete guide on comma usage. Read it to understand how it’s done.
  • 23. Ensure Vs. Insure Vs. Assure 23. Ensure Vs. Insure Vs. AssureWhile all these words are used for ‘making an outcome sure,’ they cannot be used interchangeably.Ensure is to make certain. For example, ‘Please ensure you’re free to take me to the doctor next Monday’.Assure means saying something with confidence or making a promise. For example, ‘I assure you that I’ll be on time for the event.’Insure means to protect against some risk. For example, ‘You must get your new car insured’.
  • 24. Less Vs. Fewer 24. Less Vs. FewerFewer is used for things that are quantifiable. On the other hand, less is used for things that aren’t quantifiable.For example:‘less traveling’ and ‘fewer road trips’.
  • 25. Incorrect Plural Forms 25. Incorrect Plural FormsSome words can be changed into their plural form by adding an s at the end of the word, for instance, boys, girls, cars, etc. However, there are other words that don’t follow this simple rule. Many of us use in our writing. Here are some examples:The plural form of furniture is ‘pieces of furniture’ and not ‘furnitures’.The plural form of equipment is ‘equipment’ and not ‘equipments’.The plural form of goose is ‘geese’ and not ‘gooses’.
  • 26. Compliment Vs. Complement 26. Compliment Vs. ComplementWhile both these words are pronounced exactly the same, they have completely different meanings. Complements means something that enhances or completes something else.Compliment refers to praising or admiring someone.For example:They complement each other and make a perfect couple.He complimented me on my hard work.
  • 27. Further Vs. Farther 27. Further Vs. FartherFurther and farther are often used interchangeably by writers when they mean different things.Further is used for nonphysical distances. It is also often used figuratively.Farther refers to physical distance.For example:They are moving further away from their goals.Move a little farther on the same street to reach your destination.
  • 28. Correct Capitalization of Titles 28. Correct Capitalization of TitlesThe capitalization format you use depends on the you are following. If you want to make things simple, you can use this tool. It gives you different writing style options to choose from and even capitalizes the heading for you.
  • 29. Among and Between 29. Among and Between‘Between’ is used for things that are clearly separated. On the other hand, ‘among is used for things that aren’t clearly separated.For example:Choose between a blue and black shirt.Choose among all your shirts.
  • 30. While Vs. Whereas 30. While Vs. WhereasWhile means ‘during that time’ or ‘at the same time’. Whereas means ‘on the other hand’. Both these words are commonly misused while writing.For example:Amy likes reading whereas Britney likes watching .She took a relaxing bath while the kids were asleep.
  • 31. First-Come, First-Serve 31. First-Come, First-ServeUsing the term “first-come, first-serve”  is a common English mistake that even native speakers make. It is not first-come, first-serve. Using this would mean that the first person who arrives will serve everyone. The right idiom is, first-come, first-served.
  • 32. Using Irregardless 32. Using IrregardlessIrregardless is not a word. Many people use it when they actually mean to use regardless. Using irregardless in place of regardless is a common English error that one should be careful about when English.
  • 33. Leading Off Each Paragraph with a Linking Word 33. Leading Off Each Paragraph with a Linking WordUsing firstly, secondly, thirdly, and so on is plain boring. If you read English newspapers and other publications, you will notice that none of them use these linking words at the start of each paragraph. Using them will make you look like a non-native speaker.Therefore, don’t overdo the usage of these linking words and definitely don’t use them at the beginning of each sentence.
  • 34. Piece Vs. Peace 34. Piece Vs. PeaceMany writers also make the mistake of not using the right spellings for piece and peace. ‘Piece’ means a part of something, whereas ‘peace’ means tranquility. They cannot be used interchangeably as they mean completely different things.
  • 35. Not Capitalizing Proper Nouns 35. Not Capitalizing Proper NounsProper nouns, regardless of where they are used in the sentence, must always be capitalized. So, you must capitalize the names of people and places. In addition, the names of days should also be capitalized.Common nouns, on the other hand, don’t have to be capitalized.
  • 36. Using Incorrect Tenses 36. Using Incorrect TensesTenses can be a nightmare for people who are learning English. However, they become super easy once you get the hang of them. Using the right tenses is the most important part of making a correct sentence. If you don’t use the right tense, the entire meaning and time frame of the sentence can be affected.Therefore, you must learn your tenses and use them correctly when in English.
  • 37. Using Wrong Articles 37. Using Wrong ArticlesMany of us also get confused when using articles in our sentences. Here’s the basic rule of using articles:Use ‘a’ or ‘an’ when referring to singular count nouns. For example, a girl, an apple.Use ‘the’ for the nouns that you want to make specific. For example, the girl, the apple.However, there are some to this rule as well that you must keep in mind.
  • 38. Plural Forms of Countable and Uncountable Nouns 38. Plural Forms of Countable and Uncountable NounsAnother common error in English is using the wrong plural forms of countable and uncountable nouns. Countable nouns can be counted. Uncountable nouns, on the other hand, cannot be counted.Countable nouns have plural forms, while uncountable nouns generally don’t have a plural form.For example:Countable Nouns: a woman or women, a dog or dogs, etc.Uncountable Nouns: rain, gold, hair, flour, etc.
  • 39. Not Placing Question Marks at the End of a Question 39. Not Placing Question Marks at the End of a QuestionIf you are asking a question, then it must end with a question mark. Rhetorical questions, on the other hand, may end in a question mark, an exclamation mark or a period.For example:Whose pencil is this?How could you possibly do that!
  • 40. Subject-Verb Agreement Errors 40. Subject-Verb Agreement ErrorsIf you are using a singular subject, then the verb must also be singular. On the other hand, a plural verb is used when you are using a plural subject in your sentence. Subject-verb agreement errors are one of the most common errors in English. One should be careful about them.For example:Incorrect: The two best people in my life is my sister and brother.Correct: The two best people in my life are my sister and brother.
  • 41. Sentence Fragments 41. Sentence FragmentsA sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence that doesn’t have an independent clause. It may lack a complete verb, a subject or both. These fragments don’t make any sense. They sometimes depend on the preceding sentence to make sense.Incorrect: He gave her a beautiful gift. In spite of their fight.Correct: In spite of their fight, he gave her a beautiful gift.
  • 42. Missing Comma 42. Missing CommaWhen you are inserting an introductory element in the sentence, then it must be followed by a comma. This prevents confusion and gives the reader a slight pause before the next element.Incorrect: Before she could decide Amy pushed her into the pool.Correct: Before she could decide, Amy pushed her into the pool.
  • 43. Vague Pronouns Reference 43. Vague Pronouns ReferenceUsing vague pronoun references confuses the readers about what or whom the pronoun refers to.Incorrect: When Amy found her baby, she was very happy.Correct: Amy was very happy when she found her baby.
  • 44. Accepted Vs. Expected 44. Accepted Vs. ExpectedMany people also make the mistake of using accepted and expected wrongly. Accepted means to accept something. Expected means to expect something. It is one of the most commonly confused and misused words.For example:Incorrect: John expected Amy’s offer to walk him home.Correct: John accepted Amy’s offer to walk him home.
  • 45. Using Run-On Sentences 45. Using Run-On SentencesRun-on sentences are ones where two main clauses are connected without any punctuation.Incorrect: She tried sneaking him in her mother saw her.Correct: She tried sneaking him in, but her mother saw her.
  • 46. Using Commas Unnecessarily 46. Using Commas UnnecessarilyWhile using commas in sentences is important, you also don’t have to insert them everywhere unnecessarily.Incorrect: She went to the neighbors, because she was scared.Correct: She went to the neighbors because she was scared.
  • 47. Comma Splices 47. Comma SplicesComma splices are used to connect two separate sentences using a comma instead of a semicolon or period. A comma splice is often created when writers use transitional words.For example:I wanted to invite her to dinner, however, I decided not to ask her.
  • 48. Breathe Vs. Breath 48. Breathe Vs. Breath‘Breath’ is a noun and ‘breathe’ is a verb. Both these words are commonly confused and misused even by native speakers.For example:He breathed his last breath in his home.
  • 49. Parallel Structure 49. Parallel StructureDisrespecting parallel structure is also a common error that many people make in English. Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words in the complete sentence.Incorrect: He asked me to write the report thoroughly, in an accurate manner and quickly.Correct: He asked me to write the report thoroughly, accurately and quickly.
  • 50. Principle Vs. Principal 50. Principle Vs. PrincipalPrincipal refers to a person in charge. It is also used as an adjective, in which case it means something important. Principle, on the other hand, means a firmly held belief. These words cannot be used interchangeably and are one of the most confusing words in English.He is the principal of this college.The principal reason for your failure is lack of motivation.He is a man of principles.
  • 51. Stationary Vs. Stationery 51. Stationary Vs. StationeryAnother commonly confused pair of words is stationery and stationary.Stationary refers to something that isn’t moving. Stationery, on the other hand, is used for like paper, pen, pencil, etc.The earth is not stationary.Please get me some stationery from the shop.
  • 52. Invite Vs. Invitation 52. Invite Vs. Invitation‘Invite’ is a verb and ‘invitation’ is a noun. They cannot be used interchangeably.For example:He invited me to his birthday party.He sent me an invitation to his birthday party.
  • 53. Advice Vs. Advise 53. Advice Vs. Advise‘Advice’ is a noun which means a recommendation or suggestion. On the other hand, ‘advise’ is a noun which means to suggest or recommend something to someone. Both of these words mean different things and cannot be used interchangeably.For example:He advised me to quit smoking.He gave me a good piece of advice to quit smoking.
  • 54. Weather Vs. Whether 54. Weather Vs. WhetherAnother commonly confused and misused words pair is weather and whether. ‘Weather’ refers to atmospheric and climate conditions. ‘Whether’, on the other hand, introduces alternative possibilities in a sentence.For example:The weather is beautiful today.Whether you choose this or that, you will still lose.
  • 55. Desert Vs. Dessert 55. Desert Vs. Dessert‘Desert’ can be used as a noun and a verb. When used as a noun, it means a waterless and barren land with no water. As a verb, it means to abandon or leave.‘Dessert’, on the other hand, refers to sweet food that is usually served after a meal.For example:They are planning to go to the Sahara Desert.Don’t leave him deserted. It would break his heart.My favorite dessert is chocolate pie.
  • 56. Future Tense 56. Future TenseIf you are using the future tense in a sentence, then every element of the sentence must reflect that. For example, you cannot say, ‘I will be going to the office yesterday’. It’s wrong. You use future tense only when something hasn’t happened yet. If you went to the office yesterday, it is in the past now.If you will go to the office tomorrow, you say, ‘I will be going to the office tomorrow’.
  • 57. Literally Vs. Figuratively 57. Literally Vs. FigurativelyWe often misuse these words. They mean completely opposite things. Literally means ‘really’ or ‘actually,’ while figuratively means ‘something that isn’t real’. It is used to enlarge or exaggerate the meaning of something.For example:It is literally 200 degrees out there today.Figuratively speaking, I’m melting in this heat.
  • 58. Borrow Vs. Loan 58. Borrow Vs. LoanBorrow means ‘to take’ and loan means ‘to give’. These words cannot be used interchangeably.For example:Can you lend me your book?You may borrow my notes if you want.
  • 59. Formal Vs. Casual 59. Formal Vs. CasualUnderstanding formal and casual language is very important if you wish to make the right conversations. For example, you cannot go and say, ‘Hey. What’s up?’ when you walk in for a job interview. You have to be formal in such a situation.On the other hand, using this same phrase when talking to a friend is completely fine.If you want to speak or write formally, then avoid using contractions. Contractions are used in casual speaking and writing.
  • 60. Since Vs. For 60. Since Vs. ForAnother common error in English is using the words ‘since’ and ‘for’ interchangeably.A Simple Tip:Use ‘for’ when the period of time is already specified in the sentence. For example, I haven’t met him for two months.Use ‘since’ when you have to calculate the time period yourself and just the starting point is given. For example: ‘I haven’t met him since 2010’.
  • 61. Married to Vs. Married With 61. Married to Vs. Married WithMany people use the wrong preposition when they are referring to someone being married to someone.The correct preposition for married is ‘to’ and not ‘with’.For example:‘He is married to a chef’ and not ‘He is married with a chef’.
  • 62. Using ‘Every’ with Singular and Plural Nouns 62. Using ‘Every’ with Singular and Plural NounsAs a rule of thumb, only a singular noun is used with ‘every’.For example:Incorrect: Every girls in this class is amazing.Correct: Every girl in this class is amazing.
  • 63. Using Although and But Together 63. Using Although and But TogetherIf you start a sentence with ‘although’, you don’t have to add a ‘but’ to it.For example:Incorrect: Although we were tired, but we still went for shopping.Correct: Although we were tired, we still went for shopping.
  • 64. Number Vs. Amount 64. Number Vs. AmountAnother example of commonly misused words in English is ‘amount’ and ‘number’. ‘Amount’ is always used for uncountable nouns. ‘Number’, on the other hand, is used for countable nouns.For example:I have watched a number of movies.We need a large amount of sand for this project.
  • 65. Wrong Verb Usage with ‘Did Not’ 65. Wrong Verb Usage with ‘Did Not’Another common error in English is the use of the wrong form of verb with ‘did not’. We always use the base form of a verb with ‘did’ or ‘did not’.For example: ‘I didn’t see that coming’, ‘I did not mean to hurt you’.
  • 66. Too Vs. Enough 66. Too Vs. EnoughEnough is always used before nouns. Too, on the other hand, is used before adverbs and adjectives.For example:‘I don’t have enough money’‘This shirt is too small for me’
  • 67. Gerunds 67. GerundsGerunds are verbs that function as nouns. It is, in fact, a noun made from a verb when you add ‘-ing’ to it.For example:‘I love eating steaks’ and not ‘I love to eat steaks’.‘I enjoy walking in the rain’ and not ‘I enjoy to walk in the rain’.
  • 68. Everyday Vs. Every Day 68. Everyday Vs. Every DayEvery day means daily or each day. Everyday, on the other hand, means something that happens every day or is commonplace.For example:He needs a car for his everyday commute to work.He drinks apple juice every day.
  • 69. Apostrophe with Things Shared by Two Persons 69. Apostrophe with Things Shared by Two PersonsIf a possession is shared by two people, then the apostrophe only comes after the name of the second person.For example:Incorrect: It is Amy’s and Amanda’s cat.Correct: It is Amy and Amanda’s cat.
  • 70. Well Vs. Good (Happiness) 70. Well Vs. Good (Happiness)If you want to express happiness, then always use good.For example:I feel good.Her daughter makes her feel good.
  • 71. Well Vs. Good (Quality) 71. Well Vs. Good (Quality)If you want to express someone or something’s quality, then you should use well.For example:She cooks well.The sewing machine works well.
  • 72. Singular Nouns with ‘One of the…’ 72. Singular Nouns with ‘One of the…’Another common error many people make in English is using singular nouns with the phrase ‘one of the….’. This phrase is always followed by a plural noun.For example:Incorrect: One of the girl was crying.Correct: One of the girls was crying.
  • 73. Misplaced Adverbs 73. Misplaced AdverbsPlacing adverbs in the wrong place can change the entire meaning of a sentence.For example:He almost ate all the bread.He ate almost all the bread.Both of these sentences have different meanings. Therefore, be careful about where you place the adverbs in your sentences to ensure that the right meaning is conveyed.
  • 74. Incorrect Usage of ‘A’ and ‘An’ 74. Incorrect Usage of ‘A’ and ‘An’Many people get confused about using ‘a’ or ‘an’ with some words. Here’s a simple rule: if the start of a word is a vowel, use ‘an’ before it. On the other hand, if the beginning of the word sounds like a consonant, use ‘a’ before it.For example:An orangeAn appleA horse
  • 75. Alternate Vs. Alternative 75. Alternate Vs. Alternative‘Alternate’ means something occurring in turns repeatedly. ‘Alternative’, on the other hand, means something that is available as another choice or possibility. These words cannot be used interchangeably and they have different meanings.For example:Salad is a healthier alternative to junk food.America’s government alternates between two parties.
  • 76. Amiable Vs. Amicable 76. Amiable Vs. Amicable‘Amiable’ is used to describe someone who is gentle, friendly and kind. ‘Amicable’, on the other hand, refers to settlements or agreements that are peacefully reached by parties. These words cannot be used interchangeably and they have different meanings.For example:He was greeted by an amiable young gentleman.They reached an amicable settlement of their dispute.
  • 77. Beside Vs. Besides 77. Beside Vs. Besides‘Beside’ means next to something, whereas ‘besides’ means in addition to. Using these words interchangeably can change the meaning of the sentence.For example:He was sitting beside his sister.Besides her she is also famous for her makeup skills.
  • 78. Can Vs. May 78. Can Vs. May‘May ’is used to express the possibility of something. ‘Can’ is used to express the ability to do something. Many people confuse the two words and misuse these words. They cannot be used interchangeably.For example:I can drive.It may rain today.
  • 79. Deathly Vs. Deadly 79. Deathly Vs. Deadly‘Deadly’ means something that can cause death. ‘Deathly’, on the other hand, is used to describe something that is suggestive of death or resembles death. Again, these words cannot be used interchangeably.For example:He looked deathly pale.This is a deadly weapon.
  • 80. On Vs. In 80. On Vs. In‘On’ is used to indicate a specific day or part of the day when an event takes place. ‘In’  is used in the case of unspecific times during a day, season, month, year, etc.For example:He will start working on June 5th.He came home on a hot evening in July.We have refreshing fruits in summer.The university will open in March.He died in 1980.
  • 81. No One or Anyone with Didn’t 81. No One or Anyone with Didn’tIncluding both no one and didn’t in a sentence will make it a double negative. Double negatives are not encouraged as they make the sentence confusing and difficult to understand. Therefore, when you use didn’t in a sentence, use ‘anyone’ with it instead of ‘no one’.For example:Incorrect: I didn’t meet no one at the party.Correct: I didn’t meet anyone at the party.
  • 82. If I Was Vs. If I Were 82. If I Was Vs. If I WereIf you are wishing something for yourself, then you should always use ‘if I were’.For example:Incorrect: If I was a prince.Correct: If I were a prince.
  • 83. Themself Vs. Themselves 83. Themself Vs. ThemselvesThemself is not a word. Themselves is used to refer to a group of people or things that have been previously mentioned in the clause as the subject.For example:Incorrect: They will arrange a conveyance themself.Correct: They will arrange a conveyance themselves.
  • 84. Very Vs. Really 84. Very Vs. ReallyWhile both ‘really’ and ‘very’ can be used interchangeably in many cases, really must be used when you want to emphasize an opinion or statement.For example,I really wanted to go with my friends.I really think that she will win this match.I really want to be a part of this team.Very cannot be used in these sentences.
  • 85. Incorrect Usage of Superlatives 85. Incorrect Usage of SuperlativesSuperlatives are used when you are comparing a certain quality of someone or something with another. Many comparatives can be converted to superlatives simply by adding ‘-est’ to them. However, there are some exceptions to this rule as well.For example:The superlative form of good is not goodest but best. Similarly, the superlative of bad is not baddest but worst.When using superlatives, you don’t have to add more before the quality. Simply add the superlative form and it will do the job.For example:Incorrect: She is most tall among her sisters.Correct: She is the tallest among her sisters.
  • 86. Forty Vs. Fourty 86. Forty Vs. FourtyMany people get confused when they have to write the spelling of ‘40’. The spelling of ‘40’ is ‘forty’ and not ‘fourty’.
  • 87. Lighting Vs. Lightning 87. Lighting Vs. Lightning‘Lighting’ is used for the equipment that is used to produce light. ‘Lightning’, on the other hand, is a natural electrical discharge accompanied by a bright flash of light. These words cannot be used interchangeably and they have different meanings.For example:LED bulbs are used for street lighting in our town.Thunder and lightning scare me.
  • 88. Pronounciation Vs. Pronunciation 88. Pronounciation Vs. PronunciationWhile the verb form is ‘pronounce’, the noun form of the same word is ‘pronunciation’ and not ‘pronounciation’.
  • 89. Wreck Vs. Wreak 89. Wreck Vs. Wreak‘Wreck’ means debris while ‘wreak’ means causing a large amount of harm or damage. These words are often used interchangeably and confuse readers.For example:The storm wreaked havoc in the city.The car was reduced to a smoldering wreck.
  • 90. Before Vs. Ago 90. Before Vs. Ago‘Ago’ is used when a specific time is mentioned. ‘Before’ is used to describe a period preceding some particular time or event.For example:Your mother called ten minutes ago.They were living in this house before they were murdered.
  • 91. Uninterested Vs. Disinterested 91. Uninterested Vs. Disinterested‘Uninterested’ means a lack of interest in something. ‘Disinterested’ means not influenced by personal bias, prejudice or discrimination. Both of these words have different meanings and cannot be used interchangeably.For example:The banker gave him a disinterested piece of advice.He is uninterested in your story.
  • 92. Either Is Vs. Either Are 92. Either Is Vs. Either AreIn most cases, either is followed by a singular verb.For example, Either Amy or Amanda is coming with us.However, when there is one singular and one plural choice, then the verb should agree to the nearer subject.For example: Either the cup or plates are to be sold.
  • 93. Waiting on Vs. Waiting For 93. Waiting on Vs. Waiting For‘Waiting on’ means to serve and ‘waiting for’ means to wait for something or someone.For example:She waited on her in the restaurant.He waited for her at the airport.
  • 94. One Another Vs. Each Other 94. One Another Vs. Each Other‘Each other’ is used when referring to two persons. On the other hand, ‘one another’ is used when referring to three people or more.For example:They both love each other.All the family members love one another.
  • 95. Comparing Two Qualities of the Same Person or Thing 95. Comparing Two Qualities of the Same Person or ThingIf you are comparing two qualities of the same person or thing, then we don’t use the comparative ‘-er’. For example:Incorrect: Amy is stronger than wise.Correct: Amy is more strong than wise.
  • 96. Senior to Vs. Senior Than 96. Senior to Vs. Senior ThanThe correct preposition to be used with senior is ‘senior to’ and not ‘senior than’.For example:Incorrect: Amy is senior than Jake.Correct: Amy is senior to Jake.
  • 97. Neither Nor 97. Neither NorWhen using neither nor in a sentence, there is no need to add an extra ‘not’. This is because neither nor makes the statement negative, so an additional ‘not’ is not required.For example:Incorrect: I don’t eat neither ice cream nor chocolate.Correct: I eat neither ice cream nor chocolate.
  • 98. Habit of Vs. Habit to 98. Habit of Vs. Habit toThe correct preposition for habit is ‘of’. The verb is then always followed by ‘-ing’.For example:I have a habit of listening to music while studying.She has a habit of arriving late.
  • 99. Admission to Vs. Admission for 99. Admission to Vs. Admission forThe correct preposition for admission is ‘to’ and not ‘for’.For example:These tickets will get you admission to the dolphin show.
  • 100. Hard Vs. Hardly 100. Hard Vs. Hardly‘Hard’ means something that is tough or difficult. ‘Hardly’, on the other hand, means rarely. Both words have different meanings and cannot be used interchangeably.For example:Plumbing is a hard job.This is a hard surface.She hardly comes on time.
  • 101. Listen Vs. Listen to 101. Listen Vs. Listen toThe preposition following intransitive verb ‘listening’ is ‘to’.For example:Incorrect: She likes to listen music.Correct: She likes to listen to music.These were 101 common errors in English that many people make.Do you make these errors, too?Let us know in the comments below. Also, check out our article on to create error-free content. X Search for: Search CloseAdd to Collection Add new or search

Show more

See More

15 Common Mistakes in English Error Identification

2 hours ago 15 Common Mistakes in English | Error Identification & Correction | Improve your EnglishIn this video, we ask you to correct …

Show more

See More

Common Errors in English Usage Common Errors in English

1 hours ago Common Errors in English Usage and More The Web Site of Professor Paul Brians

Show more

See More

18 Most Common Grammar Mistakes

8 hours ago Understanding the 18 most common grammar mistakes can help you improve your writing. When you know which errors to look for, it's easier to act as your own editor. ... and it usually …

Show more

See More

Improve your English with this guide to grammar

5 hours ago This means we have a good idea of what mistakes you will probably make, and can help you improve your English by avoiding these common errors. Mistake: Due to I am busy, so I …

Show more

See More

30 of the Most Common Grammatical Errors We All Need

9 hours ago

Show more

See More

8 Common Mistakes We Make While Speaking English

1 hours ago Apr 12, 2016 . Since we’re not the native speakers, there are some common mistakes that we make whenever conversing in English. We’ve listed down 8 common mistakes made by us …

Show more

See More

Oops, Did I Say That? 16 Common English Mistakes You

9 hours ago
1. It’s or ItsExample Mistake: The spider spun it’s web. Itsa very beautiful web. Tip: “Its,” without an apostrophe, is the possessive version of a pronoun. In the above example, we should use the possessive “its” to talk about the spider’s web, because the web belongs to the spider. “It’s,” wit…
2. Subject-verb AgreementExample Mistake: The list of items are on the desk. Tip: In the above sentence, the list of items is onesingular list. Therefore, we should not use “are.” We should use “is.” Correction: The list of items is on the desk.

Show more

See More

100 Speaking Mistakes You’re Most Likely Making as an

8 hours ago Less, fewer (countable nouns. ) Incorrect: There were less people. Correct: There were fewer people. ‍ 3. Possession shared by two nouns. Incorrect: It was John’s and Peter’s car. Correct: …

Show more

See More

10 Common Errors In English To Avoid – english-at-home.com

10 hours ago

Show more

See More

200 Common Errors in English Course – Espresso English

2 hours ago The 200 Common Errors Course costs $40 and when you sign up, you’ll get instant and permanent access to the lessons. Join the course today and start learning how to avoid the …

Show more

See More

How to Learn English Fast: 50 Common Grammar Mistakes to Avoid

7 hours ago

Show more

See More

50 MOST COMMON MISTAKES in English Grammar - Error

3 hours ago

Show more

See More

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the most common errors in English grammar?

    Pronoun errors are common in modern English, as writers try to avoid awkward phrasing or the implication of sexist language. Although this is an admirable goal, it is still important to learn the correct grammar and use it in more formal situations.

  • What are some common mistakes we make when conversing in English?

    Since we’re not the native speakers, there are some common mistakes that we make whenever conversing in English. We’ve listed down 8 common mistakes made by us while we speak. Use of double negative. Since most of the us try to translate a sentence to English from our native language, thus, we end up adding double negative while speaking out.

  • How to avoid writing mistakes in English?

    To avoid this mistake, you should know what each word means. Use “discreet” to describe something cautious, careful, showing good judgment. “Discrete” refers to an individual, distinct, or separate thing. Here’s another common writing mistake to avoid. Both verbs sound similar but have completely different meanings.

  • Do you make mistakes when learning English as a second language?

    Anyone learning English as a Second Language will make mistakes along the way. It is inevitable. Don’t worry. I’ve made more than my share of speaking mistakes while studying foreign languages. The important thing is to learn from these mistakes so you become a more capable, confident speaker.

  • How many common errors in English grammar exercises are there?

    There are 20 Common Errors in English Grammar Exercises quiz that will test you in a preposition, adjective, and some common grammar mistakes. There are 20 Questions about English grammar and prepositions, some of the adjectives too. You can write the correct sentence in the box and then reveal the answer to check your credibility.

  • Which is an example of an academic English mistake?

    Academic English or Casual Texting Language Example Mistake: (In an academic paper) If u want to know my opinion tho, IDK who should be president. Tip: Try to break the habit of using text language to communicate your ideas. Write everything out completely. This text style is inappropriate language to use for academic purposes.

  • What are the most common mistakes of non-native English speakers?

    But at the end of the day, it is always the small things. And the most typical mistake of non-native English speakers which I hear is usually the prepositions of time. Elementary? Yes. Making us confused?

  • Is it easy to make grammar mistakes?

    And for many, it's grammar. It's not easy. Words and phrases that sound fine in your head can look like gibberish when written down -- that is, if you even realize you made a mistake in the first place. It's easy for little grammar mistakes to slip by, especially when you're self-editing.

Have feedback?

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask us.