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Mar
2nd

Improve Your Vocabulary: Always Use the Right Word (Pt. 2)

Categories: Vocabulary Building Words, Vocabulary Improvement Tips | Tags:

This week, we’re looking at words that are frequently confused and misused. Being able to use the correct word in any situation is an important skill, and many of these words appear on tests such as the GRE and SAT. Take the time to study and thoroughly learn these words – you’ll improve your English skills immensely.

Eminent v. Imminent

Because these words are so close in pronunciation, they’re often more confusing in a spoken sentence than a written one. The word imminent (IH-mih-nent) is used to describe something that is probably (though not definitely) just about to happen.

The town was evacuated when scientists stated that the volcano’s eruption was imminent.
If he doesn’t slow down, he’s in imminent danger of crashing into the wall.

Eminent (EH-mih-nent) means distinguished, important, and of great worth.

His university mentor is an eminent scholar of ancient Greek texts.
The town council had a ceremony to honor the eminent members of the community who had contributed to the charity.

Council v. Counsel

Council is a noun used to indicate a group of people who are gathered or elected to be legislators, advisors, or administrators, and who make and follow rules and directives.

Of the six people on the council, two are teachers and the other four are career politicians.
After the coup, the generals replaced all of the local councils with military advisors.

In its advisory capacity, a council might counsel a specific course of action. Counsel means advice or recommendations, or the giving of such advice or guidance.

I depend on the counsel of my grandparents to guide me through difficult choices.
A good psychiatrist will counsel you in such a way that you find your own solutions to your problems.

Flaunt v. Flout

To flout means to scorn, or show contempt for. This verb is usually used when referring to someone’s deliberate disregard for the laws (legal or otherwise) of society.

Though her family is very traditional, Emma decided to flout convention and wear a black dress at her wedding.
Rich people often think their wealth allows them to flout the rules and do whatever they want.

Another thing many rich people are known for is a tendency to flaunt their wealth. To flaunt means to show off, to display to excess.

James always flaunts his newest sports car at each year’s company picnic, though it doesn’t make him any friends.
Deidre flaunted her engagement ring at every opportunity, waving her hands constantly as she spoke.

Practice these word pairs until you’re certain you won’t confuse them in the future. It’s better to flaunt your knowledge of English than flout the rules of grammar.