Today I’d like to share these word pairs that always confuse new writers. Not to sound arrogant there are plenty words in the English language that I need to check on for correct usage, despite considering myself an English language professional.

I have selected these five word pairs so that you can easily increase your word power.

Appraise  is to assess or estimate the worth of: to appraise an item of jewelery.

Apprise is to inform or notify: the officer apprised us of our right

As may be used as a conjunction that introduces dependent clauses: George talks as his father does. Informally, it may also be used as a preposition in comparative constructions like: Jean-Claude is as forgetful as me (or as I am).

Like is a preposition is followed by a noun or pronoun: Jane looks like her mother. It may also be used as an adjective meaning “similar”: Terry and I have like minds.

Canvas is cloth or fabric: a canvas bag to bring to the beach, or an artist’s canvas.

Canvass means “to conduct a survey or examine thoroughly”, or “to seek votes”: She canvassed all potential voters before writing a summary.

Site is a noun meaning “a place”: At which site will we stage the party?

Sight is a noun meaning “view”: The sight of the New York City skyline is spectacular, or The sight of starving children in Rwanda is devastating.

Amused is when something is entertaining: The children were amused by watching the kittens play.

Bemused means “bewildered” or “lost in thought”: George was bemused by the unexpected ending to the movie.

Writing this, I have learnt something, I hope you have too.