misuse of words part 2
Comprise vs. Compose
These are two of the most commonly misused words in the English language. Comprise means to include; compose means to make up.
It all comes down to parts versus the whole. When you use comprise, you put the whole first: "A soccer game comprises (includes) two halves." When you use compose, you put the pieces first: "Fifty states compose (make up) the United States of America."
Farther vs. Further
Farther refers to physical distance, while further describes the degree or extent of an action or situation. "I can't run any farther," but "I have nothing further to say."
If you can substitute "more" or "additional," use further.
Fewer vs. Less
Use fewer when you're referring to separate items that can be counted; use less when referring to a whole: "You have fewer dollars, but less money."
Bringing It All Together
English grammar can be tricky, and, a lot of times, the words that sound right are actually wrong.
With words such as those listed above, you just have to memorize the rules so that when you are about to use them, you'll catch yourself in the act and know for certain that you've written or said the right one.
What other words do you or people you know have trouble with?
Please share them (and your thoughts) in the comments section below as I learn just as much from you as you do from me.
Comments (7)
but hey i am a jamaican, known for bad grammer dwl
My neighbours from England, I've noticed that sometimes for eg that she says "I'm going up shop", I said to her, "you mean you're going to the shop".