Grammar and Usage: denote vs. connote The word “denote” refers to what a word literally means. For example, the word “beach” denotes an area next to a large body of water, no…
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Grammar and Usage: “amount” vs. “number”
Difference Paragraphs: amount vs. number “Number” refers to a quantity of individually countable things, such as “cats,” “books,” “ideas,” and “trees.” It answers the question of “How many?” The word “amount” generally…
Grammar and Usage: “adverse” vs. “averse”
The adjectives “adverse and “averse” are often confused. “Adverse” often describes a thing contrary or opposed to what someone wants or plans (“adverse weather,” “adverse circumstances,” “adverse consequences,” “adverse ruling”). “Adverse” also…
Grammar and Usage: “accomplish” vs. “achieve”
“Accomplish” and “achieve” overlap in meaning. They both convey the idea of successfully completing something. There is often a certain amount of pride or satisfaction attached to both. The words “aim,” “goal,” “purpose,” and “objective” can be used as objects with both of these verbs.
Grammar and Usage: “attain” vs. “obtain”
“Obtain” and “attain” have similar pronunciations and meanings, but they do not generally overlap in usage. “Attain” has more the idea of achieving a goal or reaching a level or degree. “Obtain”…