Diagnosis, parts of speech, words commonly confused

of specific brands like Adidas, and, Reebok. Under common nouns we have concrete nouns which comprise things we can physically touch or see, for example, book, car, ship, desk and box. We also have abstract nouns. Things like concepts, truth, states — motherhood, qualities — honesty, emotions — sadness.

We shall continue with nouns looking at singular and plural forms, classifying them as count or mass nouns later on. At this juncture can I move on to words often confused to help students improve on sentence construction by using words correctly at their right places. All ready — all prepared. They were to inform their leader when they were all ready. Already — previously. He had already left by the time you called him.

All together — everyone in the same place. He found them all together waiting for him. Altogether — entirely. Her response was entirely different from his. Born — given birth. Where were you born? Borne — carried; endured. The people there have borne their hardships bravely. Brake (verb) to slow down or stop; (noun) a device for slowing down, or stopping. You need to brake cautiously on wet roads. His car failed to brake and caused an accident. Break (verb) to cause to come apart; to shatter; (noun — a fracture). Do not break the window panes. They could not detect the break in her arm until they took her for an X-ray. Coarse (adjective) rough; crude. She bought coarse salt from the shops. Course (noun) path of action. Part of a meal; series of studies (also used after of to mean naturally or certainly). He took a cookery course at college. Mushroom soup was the first course at the lodge. Of course, she beat him up for misbehaving in class.

Complement (noun) something that makes whole or complete; (verb) to make whole or complete. This one is used mainly at mathematics when dealing with angles. Two angles are a complement of 90 degrees. Their role in this job complements mine. Together the parts complete the job. Compliment (noun) praise; a courteous act or expression; (verb) to express praise or respect. Thank you for the compliment.

Council (noun) a group called together to accomplish a job in local government. Councillor (noun) a member of council. The council met to discuss the budget. Each councillor gave his view on the budget. Counsel (noun) advice; (verb) to advise. Counsellor (noun) one who gives advice. The teacher gave the students leaving school wise counsel. Mr Moyo works as a counsellor for a non-governmental organisation.

For students to master these words they need constant practice through exercises which help them distinguish between words often confused. More examples on this subject to be given in later articles.For views link up with charlesdubecom to 14058@gmail.