Our is the possessive form of “we.” It shows that something belongs to “us” or is related to “us” (e.g., our sister, our computers). Our house is on fire!We were so tired after our three-hour workout. Are is the present tense of the verb “to be.” It shows some state or action that is occurring […]

These two verbs sound the same (in-DIGHT) and have a common origin, but their meanings are very different now—and only indict is commonly used. Indite is archaic and almost never used. It means “to write down” or “compose a piece of writing”—but most English speakers do not recognize this word (and they will think it […]

Indolence means “laziness” or “relaxation” while insolence means “being rude to a superior or person of higher class.”Here’s a quick look at indolence used in a sentence: His indolence prevented him from financial success. It also has a common adjective form, which is indolent: We enjoyed a wonderfully indolent weekend on the beach. In other words, […]

These two words both come from roots meaning “not-equal,” but their meanings are different. Inequity means inequality in terms of justice, power, money, or other issues of social, economic, or political equality. We must pass laws to combat the inequity of salaries for women versus men. Inequity differs slightly from inequality; inequality has mathematical meaning, […]

Know means to be aware, to be informed, to recognize, to understand, or to be acquainted with.  Mary did not know the answer to the question.I know that guy!Tell me what you know about horses.No means the opposite of “yes.” No, you may not color your hair blue.My answer is no. No also means none […]