COBUILD

What’s the difference between collaborate and cooperate?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: collaborate and cooperate. collaborate When people collaborate on a project, they work together in order to produce something. For example, two writers can collaborate to produce a single piece of… Read More

What’s the difference between generally and mainly?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: generally and mainly. generally Generally means `usually’, `in most cases’, or `on the whole’. Paperback books are generally cheapest. His answer was generally correct. mainly Use mainly, rather than ‘generally’, to say that… Read More

What’s the difference between latter and former?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: latter and former. latter The latter should only be used to refer to the second of two things or people which have already been mentioned. Given the… Read More

What’s the difference between produce and product?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: produce and product. produce Produce is usually a verb, pronounced /prəˈdjuːs/. To produce a result or effect means to cause it to happen. His comments produced an angry response. The… Read More

What’s the difference between scarce and scarcely?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: scarce and scarcely. scarce Scarce is an adjective. If something is scarce, very little of it is available. The desert is a place where water is scarce. Good quality… Read More

What’s the difference between salute and greet?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: salute and greet. salute When members of the armed forces salute someone, they raise their right hand as a formal sign of greeting or respect. The men saluted the General. Read More

What’s the difference between confidant and confident?

This week we are looking at two words which may be confused by learners of English: confidant and confident. confidant Confidant /ˈkɒnfɪdænt/ is a countable noun. A confidant is a person who you discuss your private problems and worries with. You use the spelling confidante when the person… Read More
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