10 English Words You’re Probably Misusing

English is a tricky language, full of words that sound similar but have very different meanings. Even native speakers often misuse certain words without realizing it. Using a word incorrectly can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, especially in professional or academic settings. In this blog post, we’ll look at 10 English words you’re probably misusing and explain how to use them correctly. Let’s clear up these common mistakes once and for all!

1. Literally

• Incorrect Use: “I literally died laughing.”
• Correct Use: “The word ‘literally’ means something that actually happened, not something that is exaggerated for effect.”

Literally is often used for emphasis, but it should be reserved for situations that are true or factual. If you say, “I literally died,” it means you actually died, which isn’t possible. Use literally only when you mean something happened exactly as stated.

2. Irregardless

• Incorrect Use: “Irregardless of the situation, we need to proceed.”
• Correct Use: “Regardless of the situation, we need to proceed.”

Irregardless is not a standard word in English. The correct word is regardless, which means “without regard.” Avoid using irregardless, as it can make your speech sound less polished.

3. Unique

• Incorrect Use: “Her style is very unique.”
• Correct Use: “Her style is unique.”

Unique means “one of a kind,” so something cannot be “very unique” or “most unique.” It is an absolute term, meaning it either is unique or it is not. Keep it simple and avoid adding modifiers to this word.

4. Disinterested

• Incorrect Use: “She is disinterested in the game.”
• Correct Use: “She is uninterested in the game.”

Disinterested means “impartial” or “unbiased,” while uninterested means “not interested.” If someone is disinterested, they are neutral or not taking sides, whereas if they are uninterested, they simply do not care.

5. Bemused

• Incorrect Use: “I was bemused by the comedy show.”
• Correct Use: “I was amused by the comedy show.”

Bemused means “confused or bewildered,” not “entertained” or “amused.” If something leaves you scratching your head in confusion, you are bemused. If it makes you laugh, you are amused.

6. Enormity

• Incorrect Use: “The enormity of the pizza impressed us all.”
• Correct Use: “The size of the pizza impressed us all.”

Enormity refers to something that is extremely evil or wicked, not just something large. When you want to describe size, use words like immensity or large. Save enormity for describing something of great moral evil.

7. Nonplussed

• Incorrect Use: “She was nonplussed by the good news.”
• Correct Use: “She was nonplussed when she didn’t know how to react.”

Nonplussed means “confused” or “uncertain how to react,” not calm or unbothered. If someone is nonplussed, they are often taken aback and unsure of what to do next.

8. Comprised Of

• Incorrect Use: “The team is comprised of five players.”
• Correct Use: “The team comprises five players.”

Comprise means “to include” or “to consist of,” so the phrase “comprised of” is redundant. Instead, say that something “comprises” its parts, or use “is composed of” to avoid confusion.

9. Redundant

• Incorrect Use: “This backup copy is redundant.”
• Correct Use: “Having two identical backup copies is redundant.”

Redundant means “unnecessary repetition.” A single backup copy is not redundant by itself, but having multiple identical copies would be. Make sure to use redundant correctly when referring to something that repeats needlessly.

10. Infer vs. Imply

• Incorrect Use: “She inferred that she would be late.”
• Correct Use: “She implied that she would be late.”

Imply means to suggest something indirectly, while infer means to draw a conclusion based on evidence. A speaker implies something, and a listener infers it. For example, if your friend says, “I’m running late,” they are implying it, and you might infer that they won’t arrive on time.

Why Correct Word Usage Matters

Using words correctly enhances your communication skills and helps you express yourself more clearly. Misusing words can lead to misunderstandings, especially in professional and academic settings. By learning the proper use of these words, you can sound more polished and confident in your English skills.

Tips for Avoiding Misused Words

• Read More: The more you read, the more you’ll come across the correct usage of words. Pay attention to how authors use specific terms.
• Look It Up: When in doubt, use a dictionary or online resource to check the definition and usage of a word before you use it.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Try writing sentences with each word to practice using them correctly. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.