Commonly confused words

nap vs. nape

  nap  /næp/ (a short sleep, usually during the day) In the summer, he often takes a nap after lunch. A short nap may make me feel much better.   nape  /neɪp/ (the back of the neck) She tied her long hair at the nape of her neck with an …

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moral vs. morale

moral vs. morale moral (principles of what is right and wrong) Some people today seem to lack morals. We have a moral obligation to help each other.   (something you learn from a story or experience) The moral of the story is, “never give up”.   morale (the amount of …

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material vs. materiel

material vs. materiel material (something that you need for a particular activity) We import construction materials such as cement and steel. I need some cleaning materials.   materiel (military equipment and supplies) They are in need of war materiel like weapons and ammunition. The military is transporting lethal war materiel to …

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marital vs. martial

marital vs. martial marital (relating to marriage) She always talks about their marital problems. Could I ask you about your marital status? [= whether you are married or not]   martial (relating to war or soldiers) After the latest violence, the city is now under martial law. Several soldiers underwent …

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mantel vs. mantle

mantel vs. mantle mantel (the shelf above the fireplace and the decorative frame that surrounds the fireplace) On the mantel were photographs of her grandchildren. There was an old clock on the mantel.   mantle (an important job, duty, or responsibility that passes from one person to another) John accepted the mantle …

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