Many think that syntax and grammar are one and the same thing, but the fact is syntax is just a part of grammar. As against, grammar is the entire system of rules that allows people to form and interpret words, clauses, phrases and sentences, in their language. Syntax can be understood as the set of principles that defines the order of words, clauses and phrases to form a proper sentence in a particular language. On the contrary, Grammar implies an abstract system containing the set of … [Read more...]

The words childish and childlike, are more or less associated with the characteristics of a child, that is why people often use them interchangeably, but there is a huge difference between them, which lies in their meaning. As the word 'childish' is commonly used in negative sense, i.e. to disparage someone. On the other hand, 'childlike' is a positive compliment given to someone, for having good qualities similar to a child. Let's have a look at the example given below to understand the … [Read more...]

The word desert and dessert, often look alike, but there is a slight difference in their spelling, meaning and even pronunciation. Desert implies a hot and sandy region, where there is a lack of water, due to which life is quite difficult there. It may also mean to run away from a situation. On the contrary, Dessert implies a sweet cuisine, which is usually eaten after lunch or dinner. The examples given below will help you to understand the difference between these two: After having … [Read more...]

In a direct speech, we use inverted commas to highlight the exact words of the speaker while reporting them. On the other hand, in an indirect speech, as its name suggests, it involves reporting what a person said, without exactly quoting them. So, in an indirect speech we do not use inverted commas to highlight the original statement of the speaker; instead, it is just reported using own words. Let's have a look at the examples to understand the two: Direct: Mary said, "She is going to the … [Read more...]

The homonyms break and brake are so similar in their pronunciation that sometimes it is really hard to identify which one is used in a sentence. Further, when it comes to their spelling, it resembles a great extent. However, their meaning is quite different. Break means to tear something into pieces either by a hit or drop. On the contrary, the brake is nothing but a device that is used for slowing down the speed or stopping the vehicle. Let's have a look at the examples given below to … [Read more...]

The words 'bear' and 'bare' are homonyms which are pronounced exactly similar, but they are spelt differently and also differs in their meanings. While the word 'bear' has multiple meanings, 'bare' has only one meaning. When something is not properly clothed or covered, we mean 'bare'. On the other hand, 'bear' usually refers to tolerate or carry something. Let's have a look at the examples given below: If you touch the wire with bare hands, when the switch is on, you have to bear the … [Read more...]

The adjectives 'disinterested' and 'uninterested' are often misconstrued and are used synonymously because of their relationship with the word interest. While 'disinterested' refers to detached or uninvolved in something, 'uninterested' is just the opposite of the word interested which indicates the absence of interest in something. Let's go through the examples given below to understand the difference between disinterested and uninterested: The company's management is looking for a … [Read more...]

The words 'above' and 'over' are both prepositions and adverbs which are used to describe the position of any person or object and also when we discuss measurements, i.e. a level which is higher than another level on a scale. When something is above something else, i.e. the first thing is directly perpendicular to the latter, then we use over to indicate the position. On the other hand, when the upper object is not in direct vertical line with the lower object, then we use the word above to … [Read more...]

The words compliment and complement are highly confusing homonyms, not only because of their pronunciation, but their spelling is also nearly the same, due to which we end up using them incorrectly. However, their meaning is very different, and so we should apply these words intelligently especially in written English, or else, the entire message will be misinterpreted. When someone gives you a positive comment, it is known as a compliment. On the other hand, when two things appear or perform … [Read more...]