Commonly confused words

  rifle (a gun with a long barrel that you hold against your shoulder to fire) He aimed his rifle at the target. The soldiers hit the man with their rifle butts.   (to search through something quickly to find or steal something) Jane rifled through her wardrobe in search of something …

  raze (to completely destroy a building, city, etc.) They will raze the old structure to create more space for the park. These villages were razed to the ground during the war.   raise  must have an object (to increase the amount, value, or degree) They have raised their prices. Don’t …

  thorough (complete; including every possible detail) We conducted a thorough search of the area but found nothing. It’s my responsibility to carry out a thorough investigation. (careful to perform tasks with accuracy and precision) He is very thorough.   through (from one end or side to the other) We …

till  informal (up to; as late as) We waited till the rain stopped. I’ll be here till six o’clock.   until  formal (up to; as late as) I have to wait until Wednesday. Don’t come in until I tell you.   “Till” and “until” are often used interchangeably in casual …

  leech (a small worm that lives in wet places and attaches itself to other creatures to suck their blood) Oh, my God, I have a leech on my leg. They put leeches on your body to drain the bad blood. (a person who takes advantage of other people) Mike was surrounded by leeches …