Spelling 1Words Often Confused

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Problematic Pairs

• There are many words in the English language that look or sound alike but have very different meanings. (affect, effect)

• It’s easy to get them confused , and most computer software programs cannot detect this type of error. (farther, further)

• By the end of this lesson, you will be able to use the “Problematic Pairs” correctly.

Affect Effect • (verb) to influence, • (noun) a result

• (verb) to produce, accomplish, complete

Her criticism affected me greatly; I cried all the way home.

Her criticism had a negative effect on me.

The new policy on school uniforms will be effected as soon as the school board votes.

• Affect begins with an A.

• A stands for Action, like an Action verb.

• Link the A in Affect to Action verb, and you will remember the difference!

• Effect begins with an E.

• E stands for End, like the End or result.

• Link the E in Effect to End, and you will remember the difference!

A Memory Trick

Jenny was able to throw the ball farther than Jamie.

Jenny will provide Jamie with further instruction on how to throw.

Farther Further • (adverb) at or to a greater

distance or more advanced point

• (adjective) more distant, going beyond what exists

• (adverb) to a greater extent or degree.

A Memory Trick

• Examine the word farther.

• Divide the word by syllables: far-ther

• Far can be linked to physical distance.

• Link far to farther, and you will remember the difference!

Complement Compliment • (noun) that which

fulfills, completes or makes perfect

• (verb) to fill out

• (noun) an expression of approval or admiration

• (verb) to offer praise or flattering remark

Our fishing boat had a full complement of rods and reels.

The vivid photographs complemented the travel article.

When I finally see my dad in a nice suit, I will pay him a compliment.

Brian’s sister complimented him on his preppy tie selection.

A Memory Trick

• Only one letter marks the difference between complement and compliment.

• The “e” and the “i”

• Think about the “i” and say “I like that!”

• “I like that” could be considered a compliment with an “i”.

My mom was altogether perplexed when she read my confusing text.

The teammates stood all together as they waited for the game to begin.

Altogether All Together• (adverb) to the full or

entire extent; wholly; entirely; in all

• (phrase) when a group acts or is acted upon collectively

A Memory Trick Altogether is one word; it could be considered

whole or complete.

All together is two words or more than one. More than one person makes a group.

Use the Spelling Tips