Commonly confused words

elicit vs. illicit

elicit vs. illicit elicit (to get information or a reaction from someone) The police were able to elicit a confession from the robbers. They were able to elicit the support of the public.   illicit (not allowed by law; illegal) Marijuana is an illicit drug in the United States. (not …

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incite vs. insight

incite vs. insight   incite  formal (to encourage someone to fight, argue, etc.) He was attempting to incite the crowd to violence. The party incited its supporters to take up arms against the government.   insight (a clear understanding of a situation, idea, etc.) The documentary offers an insight into …

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illicit vs. elicit

illicit vs. elicit   illicit (not allowed by law; illegal) Marijuana is an illicit drug in the United States. (not morally acceptable) She is having an illicit affair with her manager.   elicit (to get information or a reaction from someone) The police successfully elicited a confession from the robbers. …

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hoard vs. horde

hoard vs. horde   hoard (a secret store of something valuable) They keep a huge hoard of food in the basement. Police have discovered a hoard of stolen goods while searching the house. horde (a very large crowd) Hordes of tourists arrive here every summer. There was a horde of people inside …

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hail vs. hale

hail vs. hale   hail (to call someone or something) He hailed us from across the street. Can you hail a taxi for me? (small ice balls that fall like rain) It was hailing, so we didn’t go out. The sun came out, and the hail melted.   hale (strong; …

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