abuse (to use something for the wrong purpose or for your own advantage) She consistently voices her opposition to those who abuse their power. He repeatedly abused his position getting other people to do things for him. misuse (to use something incorrectly, or in a way that was …
Read More »afflict vs. inflict
afflict (cause suffering; distress) The disease has afflicted hundreds in the region. He was afflicted by the death of his mother. inflict (to make suffer something unpleasant or painful) Years of war inflicted considerable damage on the economy. The fences equipped with razor blades inflicted serious injuries on …
Read More »sensitive vs. sensible
sensitive (easily upset or offended) Don’t be so sensitive— I was just joking. Mike is really quite sensitive to criticism. Don’t mention her weight— she’s very sensitive about it. opposite: insensitive sensible (a decision or action that is good because it is based on reason and experience rather …
Read More »eject vs. reject
eject formal (to force someone to leave) They ejected her from the church. He was ejected from the bar for causing trouble. (to make something come out) The computer ejected the CD. reject (to refuse to accept, believe in, or use) They rejected our offer of help. She would not reject him …
Read More »whit vs. wit
whit vs. wit whit formal (a very small amount) There wasn’t a whit of evidence for that. It does not matter a whit to her. I don’t care a whit about what happens. wit (the ability to use words that are both clever and amusing) She was a woman of wit and …
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