Simple words have a way to throw us off in an exam where time and accuracy is of the essence. So let’s spend a few moments on more words that I’ve seen students stumble on, but you don’t have to. Following my first post on Words That Confuse, here’s more:

1. Counsel vs. Council

   • Counsel: Advice or guidance; a legal advisor.

     Eg.: He sought counsel from his lawyer.

   • Council: A group of people convened for advice or decision-making.

     Eg.: The city council meets once a month.

2. Imply vs. Infer

   • Imply: To suggest or hint at something without saying it directly.

     Eg.: His tone seemed to imply that he was unhappy.

   • Infer: To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning.

     Eg.: From her expression, I could infer she was upset.

3. Adverse vs. Averse

   • Adverse: Harmful or unfavorable.

     Eg.: The adverse weather conditions caused the event to be canceled.

   • Averse: Having a strong dislike or opposition to something.

     Eg.: She is averse to eating spicy food.

4. Historic vs. Historical

   • Historic: Important in history.

     Eg.: The signing of the treaty was a historic event.

   • Historical: Relating to history or past events.

     Eg.: She loves reading historical novels.

5. Adapt vs. Adopt

   • Adapt: To change or adjust to new conditions.

     Eg.: Species must adapt to survive in changing environments.

   • Adopt: To take up or start to use or follow something.

     Eg.: They decided to adopt new policies in the company.