Many English learners struggle with confusing words that have similar sounds or meanings. Let’s look at a few commonly confused words to help you master vocabulary.
Bored or boring?
Both words are adjectives, so how are they different?
We use adjectives ending with -ed, like bored, to describe a feeling.
· I'm bored because there is nothing to do.
You can also use adjectives such as relaxed, excited, and interested.
On the other hand, if the adjective ends with -ing, it describes a situation or things.
· This book is boring.
Seeing, looking, and watching
All three verbs mean you're doing something with your eyes, but how you use your eyes also matters.
Seeing is automatic. You see things when your eyes are open—whether you want to or not!
· I can’t see without my glasses.
Looking is more active than seeing. When you're looking at something, you might have to move your head to direct your attention toward it.
· Look at that spider!
When you are watching something, you have to focus and pay attention. You can watch a movie, children, or sports.
· Let’s watch a movie together.
Come or go?
Both words describe movement, but the direction is different. Come implies movement towards the speaker or a common point.
· Come here.
· Come to my house around 8 pm.
· My uncle is coming to visit next week.
On the other hand, go indicates movement away from the speaker.
· I'm going on holiday.
· Let's go to the mall.
· I can't wait to go to the party this weekend!
Now that you know the difference between these words, you can speak English more confidently!