inflict (to make suffer something unpleasant or painful) Years of war inflicted severe damage on the economy. The fences fitted with razor blades inflicted serious injuries on refugees fleeing war. afflict (cause suffering; distress) The disease has afflicted hundreds in the region. He was afflicted by the death …
Read More »venal vs. venial
venal (willing to do anything in return for money, corrupt) The venal court official accepted the bribe. He was involved in several venal practices. venial formal (a minor sin or offence that can be forgiven) It’s a venial sin to steal a pen and a mortal sin to steal a …
Read More »disinterested vs. uninterested
disinterested (impartial, unbiased) My advice was quite disinterested. I didn’t expect you to be so calm and disinterested. uninterested (not interested) I am really uninterested in politics. He was completely uninterested in my career. envocabulary.com
Read More »flounder vs. founder
flounder (to move with great difficulty and effort) We have to flounder in the deep snow back home. She floundered in the water till someone dived in to save her. (unable to decide what to do or say next) She floundered through her song. I floundered for a few seconds trying to decide …
Read More »complement vs. compliment
complement (something that completes, or makes better, or is perfect) A good wine would be a nice complement to the meal. This curtain is a perfect complement to the carpet. compliment (a polite expression of praise) He always paid me compliments on my cooking. She received several compliments for her …
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