Commonly confused words

flue vs. flu

  flue (a pipe or channel that takes smoke, gas, etc. out of a building) We need to install a metal flue for the furnace. The smoke won’t go out because the flue is blocked up.   flu [formal: influenza] (an illness like a very bad cold that causes fever, pain, …

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stair vs. stare

  stair (one of the steps in a set of stairs) He was sitting on the top stair. We need to go up four flights of stairs.   stare (to look at someone or something in a steady way) It’s rude to stare at a girl. What is he staring at? envocabulary.com

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for sale vs. on sale

  for sale (available to buy, especially from the owner) Several houses in this street are for sale. Is this car for sale?   on sale UK (available to buy, especially in a shop) Tickets are on sale at the box office. Their new album goes on sale next week. US …

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role vs. roll

  role (the position or function of someone or something in a situation or activity) What is your role in this project? Money plays an important role in my life.   roll (a small loaf of bread) She spread butter on a roll. (an official list of names) The teacher called the roll to see …

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lute vs. loot

  lute (a musical instrument like a guitar with a round body) He was blind, but he was a good lute player. A lute is an early type of musical instrument with strings, played like a guitar.   loot (to steal from shops and houses, typically during a war or riot) Shops were looted and burned during the …

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