اعزائى سنكتب الجمل التى بها اخطاء شائعة ومعها التصحيح فمن لدية اى جملة فليتبها هنا حتى تعم الفائدة
وشكرا :وها هى البداية
الجملة الاولى خطا والثانية التصحيح مع ذكر السبب
I hope you all have a enjoyable stay.
I hope you all have an enjoyable stay.
Always use an (NOT a) before a word beginning with a vowel sound: 'an
egg'
.................................................. .................................................. ...............................
.My husband is doing a MSc in civil engineering.
My husband is doing an MSc in civil engineering.
Use an (NOT a) before an abbreviation that begins with a vowel sound:
'an MSc' an ,em es 'si:/, 'an MP' an ,em 'pi:/.

Sometimes it is difficult to live a honest life.
Sometimes it is difficult to live an honest life.
Use an (NOT a) before words beginning with h when the h is not
pronounced: 'an honour' 'an hour' .

The child had been a deaf since birth.
The child had been deaf since birth
% One of the girls I share with is a British.
One of the girls I share with is British.
Do not use a/an before an adjective (e.g. 'deaf', 'British') unless the
adjective is followed by a noun: 'Her husband is disabled.'
Compare: 'The footbridge cannot be used by the disabled.' (= all people
who are disabled)

These machines are destroying our ability of thinking.
These machines are destroying our ability to think.
ability to do sth (NOT of doing): 'Nobody doubts his ability to get the
job done.' 'We need someone with the ability to work under pressure.'
.................................................. .................................................. ....................
2 I want to improve my ability of reading.
I want to improve my reading ability.
reading l writing l teaching l acting ability: 'Her acting ability was
recognized at a very early age.'
.................................................. .................................................. ...............................
3 I want to improve my ability of English.
I want to improve my ability in English.
ability in a language or subject: 'Sarah has demonstrated considerable
ability in both maths and chemistry.'
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
able 1 x One man is able to destroy the whole world.
One man is capable of destroying the whole world.
If someone is able to do something, they can do it and it is not unusual
or surprising if they do it: 'The doctor said that after a few days I'd be
able to get out of bed.' 'Will you be able to play on Saturday?'
If someone is capable of (doing) something, they do not usually do it.
but it is possible for them to do it if they want to: 'I'm sure he's quite
capable of getting here on time, but he can't be bothered.' 'The power
station is capable of generating enough electricity for the whole region.'

.................................................. .................................................. ............................................;
X There are so many places to visit in London that I'm not able to
decide where to go.
There are so many places to visit in London that I can't
decide where to go.
.................................................. .................................................. .............................
8 We weren't able to stop laughing.
We couldn't stop laughing.
With verbs of perception (e.g. see, hear, smell) and verbs of the mind
(e.g. understand, decide, remember), we usually use can, can't, etc: 'I
can't hear you. Could you speak a bit louder, please?' 'I think I can smell
something burning.' 'Having met her new boss, I can see why she
doesn't like him.' Note also the phrase can't l couldn't stop ' '

something: 'The book was so fascinating that I couldn't stop
;reading it
See also COULD 1
3 /f................................................. .................................................. .....

% In some countries you are not able to drink until you are 21
In some countries you can't drink until you.are 21.
For actions that are controlled by laws or rules, use can, can't, etc, or be
(not) allowed to: 'Now that they are both sixteen, they can get married.'
'The goalkeeper can touch the ball, but nobody else can.'
.................................................. .................................................. ..............................
4 X Technology has made them able to grow their own food.
Technology has enabled them to grow their own food.
enable = make someone able to do something: 'This scheme is
designed to enable young people to find work.'
Note also the phrase can't/couldn't stop doing something: 'The book was
so fascinating that I couldn't stop reading it.' See also COULD 1

I was about leaving when the telephone rang.
I was about to leave when the telephone rang.
be about to do sth (NOT doing)
Compare: 'I was just leaving when the telephone rang.'

Since I was small, I've always wanted to go to abroad.
Since I was small, I've always wanted to go abroad.
.................................................. .................................................. ............
I would like to continue my studies in abroad.
I would like to continue my studies abroad.
.................................................. .................................................. ....................
go/live/be abroad (WITHOUT to, at, in etc)
The only preposition that is used before abroad is "from": 'She came back
from abroad saying how much she had missed her home and family.'

The company will not accept to buy new machines.
The company will not agree to buy new machines.
You accept someone's advice, opinion, or suggestion BUT you agree (=
say you are willing) to do something. Compare: 'I accepted her
suggestion and agreed to see the doctor that evening.'
.................................................. .................................................. ............................
The driver did not accept me to get on the bus.
The driver did not allow me to get on the bus.
.................................................. .................................................. .........................
We can't accept a motorway to be built through our town.
We can't allow a motorway to be built through our town.
You allow l permit someone to do something, or let them do it: 'Many
parents do not allow l permit their children to watch violent films.' 'Many
parents do not let their children watch violent films.'

Could you help me look for an accommodation?
Could you help me look for accommodation?
.................................................. .................................................. ........................
Accommodations in London are very expensive.
Accommodation in London is very expensive.
.................................................. .................................................. ..................
In British English accommodation (= a place to stay or live in) is always
uncountablef 'For the first year we ***id in rented accommodation.' -
In American Enalish both accommodation and accommodations

After the run, I had an ache in my legs.
After the run, my legs were aching.
Ache is usually used either as a verb or in compounds with too%;ear,
head, back, stomach: 'I did some weight training on Monday and my
shoulders have been aching ever since.' 'That radio of yours is giving me
a headache.'
Compare: 'After the run, I had pains in my legs.'

He refused to accept responsibility for his acts.
He refused to accept responsibility for his actions.
.................................................. .................................................. ...........
The noun act is usually used when you want to comment on a particular
thing that someone has done: 'It was an act of great courage.' 'These
cowardly terrorist acts bring death and suffering to the innocent.'
When you are talking about someone's general behaviour, use actions:
'You can't be blamed for your parents' actions.' 'Her words and actions
have not gone unnoticed.'

It is difficult to forgive those responsible for actions of terrorism.
It is difficult to forgive those responsible for acts of
terrorism.
.................................................. .................................................. ................................
Blackmail is the action of trying to obtain money from someone
by threatening to expose them.
Blackmail is the act of trying to obtain money from someone
by threatening to expose them.
.................................................. .................................................. ...............................................
an/the act of (doing) sth (NOT action): 'Such acts of violence will not
be tolhe erated.' 'For some people, the very act of talking to a doctor can
help them to feel better.'

Although the film has its advantages, it also has a serious flaw.
Although the film has its meritslgood points, it also has a
serious flaw.
.................................................. .................................................. ...............................
advantage = something that puts you in a better position than other
people: 'A healthier lifestyle is just one of the advantages of living in the
country.' 'The main advantage of using word processors is the amount of
time you save.'
merit = a good quality; a strength: 'The merits of the new health
programme are gradually being recognized.' 'We should judge each
application on its own merits.'
Television provides many advantages.
Television provides many benefits.
benefit = a good result which improves your life or situation: 'Belonging
to a union has a number of important benefits.' 'It's over a month since I
got back from holiday, but I still feel the benefit.
.................................................. .................................................. .....................................'
What are the advantages in studying in the United States?
What are the advantages of studying in the United States?
.................................................. .................................................. ..............................................
There are many advantages of having your own computer.
There are many advantages to / i n having your own
computer.
the advantagels of (doinglhaving) sfh: 'He described the advantages
of renewing the contract.' 'The advantages of independence soon
became clear.'
there are (several l many etc) advantages to/in (doing l having) sth:
'There are advantages to working in a supermarket.' 'There are clear
advantages to such an approach.' 'Are there any advantages in
appointing coordinators?'

She gave me a good advice. F
She gave me some good advice.
.................................................. .................................................. ...............
It is full of good advices on'healthy eating.
It is full of good advice on healthy eating.
.................................................. .................................................. ......................................
10 advise
Advice is an uncountable noun: 'I could do with some advice.'
Compare: 'She gave me a good piece of advice.'
.................................................. .................................................. .........................
1 I asked my lawyer for her advise.
I asked my lawyer for her advice.
.................................................. .................................................. ...........................
See note at ADVICE 1
2 Nowadays many doctors advise to live in the countryside.
Nowadays many doctors advise living in the countryside.
Nowadays many doctors advise people to live in the
countryside.
advise sb to do sth: 'I advised her to see a lawyer.'
advise doing sth (NOT to do): 'I would advise leaving very early.

I'm at the age of 22.
I'm 22 (years old).
be + NUMBER (+ years old): 'David is almost twelve (years old).'

His age is about fifty-five years old.
He's about fifty-five (years old).
Do not use age and years old together. The usual way of mentioning
someone's age is simply be + NUMBER: 'She'll be sixteen next August.'

Soon you'll be of my age.
Soon you'll be my age.
.................................................. .................................................. ...............................................
8 Although we are at the same age, we have different interests.
Although we are the same age, we have different interests.
be mylyour etc age: 'When I was your age, I was already going out to
work.'
be the same age (as sb): 'Most of my friends are the same , \
.................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .
4 In the age of 15, you are allowed to drive a car.
At the age of 15, you are allowed to drive a car. ,
age as me/-r
Phrases with age as their main word usually begin with at &OT in):
'Keeping fit is very important at your age.' 'Some girls get married at a
very young age.' 'She is at the age when she wants to go to school.'
.................................................. .................................................. ................................................
5 A child in the age of seven or eight needs a little push.
A child of seven or eight needs a little push.
.................................................. .................................................. ......
People in my age spend a lot of time In pubs.
People of my age spend a lot of time in pubs.
noun + of + NUMBER: 'They have aiitlle girl of three and a boy of five.'
noun.+ of + mylyour etc age: 'He is very clever for a boy of his age.' 'A
girl of her age needs someone to play with.'
.................................................. .................................................. .........................
14 aged
Note the alternative with aged: 'A child aged seven or eight needs a little
push.'
They have two children in the age of 8 and 12 years.
false
..........................
correct
They have two children aged 8 and 12.
They have two children, 8 and 12 years of age.
When you mention two ages after a noun, use either of the following:
aged + NUMBER + and + NUMBER: 'two boys aged 12 and 14'
NUMBER + and + NUMBER + years of age: 'two boys, 12 and 14 years
of age'.
.................................................. .................................................. ....................
These books are for children at the age of from 4 to 6 years.
false
.................................................. ..................................correct
These books are for children aged 4 to 6.
These books are for children between the ages of 4 and 6.
When you mention an age range after a noun, use either aged +
NUMBER + to + NUMBER: 'suitable for children aged seven to eleven'
or between the ages of + NUMBER + and + NUMBER: 'suitable for
children between the ages of seven and eleven'.
.................................................. .................................................. ................................
8 See MIDDLE AGE
? Not all aged parents have children to look after them.
Not all elderly parents have children to look after them.
When it means 'very old', aged (pronounced 1 'e1d3:d ) is mainly used in
formal styles, usually in the phrase the aged: 'The poor and the aged are
entitled to free health care.'
The usual word for this meaning is elderly, which also sounds polite:
'The photograph was of an elderly gentleman with a white moustache.'
'The building has been converted into a retirement home for the

Her lifelong aim was to learn how to fly.
Her lifelong ambition was to learn how to fly.

Every alive creature in the sea is affected by pollution.
Every living creature,in the sea is affected by pollution.


.................................................. .................................................. ...................
alive = not dead: 'He was very seriously ill and is lucky to be alive.'
living = (1) alive now: 'He has no living relatives.' (2) used to refer to all
creatures and things that live and die: 'Yeast is a living organism and too
much heat or cold can kill it.' 'The ants will eat any living thing that comes
into their path.'
.................................................. .................................................. ............................................
Our teacher, Mr Collins, is very alive.
Our teacher, Mr Collins, is very lively.
lively =full of energy: 'The Yorkshire Terrier is a lively breed of dog.'

All of us didn't want to go to bed.
None of us wanted to go to bed.
.................................................. .................................................. ............
All companies will not tolerate lazy workers.
No company will tolerate lazy workers.
.................................................. .................................................. ..................................................
We all must try to find a solution to the problem

We must all try to find a solution to the problem.
.................................................. .................................................. .............

We all were delighted when we heard the news. /*
We were all delighted when we heard the news,

I like all the kinds of music.
I like all kinds of music.
.................................................. .................................................. .
All of children learn to speak naturally.
All children learn to speak naturally.
.................................................. .................................................. .
All of the young couples need a home of their own.
All young couples need a home of their own.
.................................................. .................................................. ..
For general reference, put all l most/some etc immediately in front of the
noun: 'In Japan most people use chopsticks.'
For specific reference, use all l most/some +of the l these their etc +
noun: 'Most of the Americans I met were very friendly.'

I was very alone at first but then I made some friends.
I was very lonely at first but then I made some friends.
.................................................. .................................................. ......................
alone = without other people around you: 'I've thought about getting
married, but I prefer living alone.'
lonely = sad because you are alone and feel that nobody loves you or
cares about you: 'I didn't know anyone in Boston and felt very lonely.'
'Sarah hated the long lonely days in the empty house.'

Children learn a lot by doing things alone.
Children learn a lot by doing things on their own.
on your own = without anyone's help or supervision; independently: 'He
built the car all on his own.'

The war is not over already.
2
The war is not over yet.
.................................................. ................................
/-( The new shop has not been opened already. /=
The new shop has not been opened yet. /
Instead of using not + already, use not + yet: 'We haven't been paid
yet.' 'The plane hasn't landed yet.'

My immediate ambition is to find somewhere to live.
My immediate aim is to find somewhere to live.
ambition = something very important that you have wanted to do or
achieve for a very long time: 'Sandro's one ambition is to play for Italy in
the World Cup.'
aim = what you hope to achieve when you do something: 'The aim of the
course is to develop the students' writing skills.'

Not many people manage to satisfy their ambitions.
Not many people manage to achieve their ambitions.
achieve your ambition (NOT satisfy, meet, reach, arrive etc): 'He has
achieved his main ambition -to make a name for himself in politics.'

Only small amounts of students will be admitted.
Only small numbers of students will be admitted.
amount of + uncountable noun
number of + plural countable noun
Compare: 'an amount of money', 'a number of coins'

I was lucky and won a big amount of money.
I was lucky and won a large amount of money.

The amount of crime have increased.
The amount of crime has increased.
.................................................. .................................................. ................................
A tremendous amount of research have been carried out.
A tremendous amount of research has been carried out.
amount of (singular) + uncountable noun + singular verb
amounts of (plural) + uncountable noun + plural verb
Compare: 'A large amount of money is required.' 'Large amounts of
money are required.'

There is a beautiful and old church in the centre of the town.
There is a beautiful old church in the centre of the town.
Do not use and between two adjectives that come before a noun unless
they describe similar qualities, e.g. 'a red and green umbrella' (two
colours), 'a gold and silver bracelet' (two materials), 'a hunting and
fishing knife' (two functions).

The waiter was made to apologize my father.
The waiter was made to apologize to my father.
.................................................. ......................................
I( He apologized her for the long delay.
He apologized to her for the long delay.
apologize to sb: 'The US has apologized to Britain for the accident that
cost nine lives.'
2 8 She insisted on apologizing

You'll arrive to London at two in the morning.
You'll arrive in London at two in the morning.
.................................................. .................................................. .....
When the train arrived at Munich, he was still asleep.
When the train arrived in Munich, he was still asleep.
arrive l arrival in a country, city etc: 'I'll be arriving in Hong Kong in time
for Chinese New Year.'

1 was treated as if an old friend
I was treated as if I waslwere an old friend.
I was treated like an old friend.
Do not use a noun phrase immediately after as if and as though: 'She
looked at me as iflthough she'd never seen me before.' 'He walked with
difficulty, as iflthough (he were) in pain.' See also WAS

Each week he wrote her three letters, as well as telephoned her.
Each week he wrote her three letters, as well as telephoning
her.
as well as + v-ing: 'Did you realize that, as well as being a dress
designer, she manages a chain of health food shops?'

A lot of athletic reporters write for the magazine.
A lot of athletics reporters write for the magazine.
.................................................. .................................................. ................................
The race was organized by the National Athletic Association.
The race was organized by the National Athletics
Association.
athletic = physically strong and good at running, jumping, etc: 'I've never
been very athletic.'
athletics = sports such as running, jumping, and throwing the javelin:
'I've never been very good at athletics.'
The noun athletics (WITH -s) is often used in front of another noun:
'He's been selected for the athletics team.'

He put his hand over my mouth to avoid me to scream.
He put his hand over my mouth to prevent me from
screaming.

These new measures are intended to avoid the spread of the
disease.
These new measures are intended to prevent the spread of
the disease.
These new measures are intended to prevent the disease
from spreading.
avoid (doing) sth = be careful not to do something: 'The best way to, . . ,
lose weight is to avoid eating fatty foods.' 'These ***** are dangerous '
and should be avoided.' 'Try to avoid subjects that can cause offence.'
prevent sblsth (from doing sth) = stop someone or something from
doing something; stop something from happening: 'The wall is supposed
to prevent dogs from getting into the garden.' 'It is hoped that the new
speed limit will help to prevent accidents.'

He is such a nice man that you can't avoid.liking him.
He is such a nice man that you can't help liking him
.................................................. ..............
I couldn't avoid falling in love with her. ;
I couldn't help falling in love with her.
can't help doing sth = cannot stop yourself from doing something:
'Whenever he tries to sing, I just can't help laughing.'

The Insurance company has offered an award to anyone who
can provrde rnformation about the theft.
The insurance company has offered a reward to anyone
who can provide information about the theft.
award = (1) a prize, certificate, or medal that is given for doing
something very well: 'The award for this year's best actor went to Harry
Cohen.' (2) a sum of money that someone wtns n a court of law: 'Each
survivor of the disaster received an award of $20,000.'
reward = (1) something that you are given by someone who is pleased
by what you have done. 'As a reward for eat~nga ll her dinner, she was
given an ice cream.' (2) a sum of money that someone promises to pay
to the person who provides useful ~nforrnationu, sually in connection with
a crime that has been committed or someth~ngth at has been lost: 'A
reward of $5,000 has been offered for information leading to the recovery
of the necklace

My shoulders were sunburnt badly.
My shoulders were badly sunburnt.
Some were killed and others were injured badly.
Some were killed and others were badly injured. /'2
r,
badly + past participle: 'The other car was badly damaged.'

All the passengers carried their own baggages. "
All the passengers carried their own baggage":\
Baggage is an uncountable noun: 'Baggage must not be left unattended
in the terminal building.' 'How many pieces of baggage do you have?'

I hadn't been in Scotland before.
I hadn't been to Scotland before.
.................................................. .......
Have you ever been in California?
(2
Have you ever been to California? <
been in = been living or staying in: 'I've been in Paris since'6e
beginning of June.' 'How long has Wendy been in hospital?'
been to = gone to and come back from; visited: 'l've been to Paris three
times.' 'l've been to the hospital to see Wendy

'Are these gloves belonging to you?' she asked.
'Do these gloves belong to you?' she asked

We need to discover another source of income, beside oil.
We need to discover another source of income, besides oil:\
.................................................. .................................................. ........................................
We went swimming in the river besides my house.
We went swimming in the river beside my house.
beside = next to: 'She walked over and sat down beside me.' "
besides = in addition to; also: 'Who did you Invite besides Tom and
Maty?' 'Besides tennis, what other games do you play?' 'I'm too old to
apply for the job. Besides, it would mean moving house.'

Beside of the traditional ceremonies, there are also foreign
weddings.
Besides the traditional ceremonies, there are also foreign
weddings.
.................................................. .................................
Besides of this problem, her husband had lost his job.
Besides this problem, her husband had lost his job.
When you mean 'in addition to', use besides (WITHOUT of):

He is the best surgeon of the hospital.
He is the best surgeon in the hospital.
.................................................. .................................................. ...........................
It is one of the best theatres of Spain.
It is one of the best theatres in Spain.
.................................................. .................................................. ..............................
The phrase that follows the best (+ noun) usually begins with in (NOT
of): 'one of the best restaurants in London', 'the best team in the league',
'some of the best students in the class'

We all made our best to see that they enjoyed themselves.
We all did our best to see that they enjoyed themselves.

'You'd better to hurry up,' she shouted'
'You'd better hurry up,' she shouted.
had better (not) do sth (NOT to do): 'You'd

If people want to be healthy, they had better be more careful
about what they eat.
If people want to be healthy, they should be more careful
about what they eat.
.................................................. .................................................. ........
Had better is used in informal styles when you give someone strong
advice about what to do in a particular situation. The situation usually
exists at the moment of speaking and so there is usually a sense of
urgency in the advice: 'You'd better hurry or you'll miss the bus.' 'You'd
better ring your parents -just in case they're worrying about you.'
.................................................. .................................................. .................
To give advice on a general situation or to say that one course of action
is better than another one, use should, ought to or it would be better
to: 'Parents should teach their children to be kind to animals.' 'Rather
than complain and risk upsetting her, it would be better to say nothing

Between all the magazines on the shelves, only one was of any
interest.
Among all the magazines on the shelves, only one was of
any interest.
.................................................. .................................................
He wandered silently between the passengers on the boat.
He wandered silently among the passengers on the boat.
.................................................. ............................................
Between is used when there are people or things on either side of
someone or something: 'The ball went straight between the goalkeeper's
legs.' 'The teacher walked up and down between the rows of desks.'
.................................................. ...........................................
'Give me a number between 4 and 14.'
Among (or amongst) is used when (at least three) people or things are
considered as a group or mass: 'I eventually found the photograph
among a pile of old letters.'

Children between three to five go to kindergarten.
Children between three and five go to kindergarten.
.................................................. .................................................. ..................
Between June 1987 to March 1990 1 was in France.
From June 1987 to March 1990 1 was in France.
.................................................. .................................................. ......................
It will take them between six to eight weeks to finish it.
It will take them between six and eight weeks to finish it.
Use between ... and or from ... to (NOT between ... to).

I wasn't even there so you can't blame on me.
.................................................. ..........................
I wasn't even there so you can't blame me.
I wasn't even there so you can't blame it on me
.................................................. .................................................. .........
Who is to be blamed about this?
Who is to be blamed for this?
.................................................. .................................................. .....
blame sb (for sth): 'Nobody can blame you for telling the truth.'
blame sth on sblsth: 'Whenever children behave badly, people blame it
on the teachers.'
Compare: 'He always tries to put the blame on me.'

Some people become blind with the disease.
Some people go blind with the disease.
go blind (not become): 'When I couldn't? see anything. I thought I'd gone
blind.'

I'm afraid that we're out of stock but 1 can book one for you.
I'm afraid that we're out of stock but I can order one for you.
book = reserve a seat on a plane, a room in a hotel, a table at a
restaurant, etc: 'The train was packed and I wished I'd booked a seat.'
order = ask for certain goods to be sent to a shop, especially because a
customer wants to buy them: 'If you want to be sure of getting a daily
newspaper, it's best to order one.'

My job at the bank was very bored.
My job at the bank was very boring.

I don't think I'll ever get bored of the book.
I don't think I'll ever get bored with the book.
.................................................. ..................................................
She soon got bored of talking to him.
She soon got bored with talking to him.
.................................................. .................................................. ....
be l get bored with (doing) sth: 'I'm bored with pasta and tomatoes - I
want something different.' 'I got bored with lying on the beach and went
off to explore the town.'

We get very boring with the same food every day.
We get very bored with the same food every day.
.................................................. ........................................
You'll be boring with nothing to do.
You'll be bored with nothing to do.
.................................................. .................................................. ..........
If someone or something is boring &/exciting/frightening/interesting
(-ING), you feel bored l excited frightened/interested (-ED): 'The lecture
was terribly boring. Some of us were so bored that we fell asleep.'

My name is Ali Sariat and I born in Tehran.
My name is Ali Sariat and I was born in Tehran.
.................................................. .................................................. ......
be born: 'Do you realize that a child is born every few seconds.' 'The
baby was born in the middle of the night.' 'It was the first time I'd actually
watched a child being born.'

I have been born in a town just outside Paris.
I was born in a town just outside Paris.
.................................................. .................................................. ....
Use 'I was born', 'They were born', etc (NOT '1 have been born' or 'I am
born'): 'I'll never forget the day when the seven puppies \ were born.'

He was born in a Catholic family.
He was born into a Catholic family. '
be born into a particular type of family, world, etc (NOT in): 'She was
born into a world that was on the brink of war.'

I asked my friend to borrow me Some money.
I asked my friend to lend Me some money.
.................................................. ...........................
% He borrowed me some of his books.
He lent me some of his books.
.................................................. ...................................
I borrowed some of his books.
.................................................. .................................................. .................
When you borrow something (from someone), you are allowed to use it:
'Can I borrow one of your pencils?'
When you lend something (to someone), you let them use it: 'He asked
me to lend him one of my pencils.'

My father is the boss of a small shipping company.
My father is the manager of a small shipping company.
.................................................. .................................................. ..............................
Boss is usually used in informal styles: 'From the way he acts, you'd
think that he was the boss.'

Both of them have not apologized yet.
Neither of them has apologized yet.
.................................................. ....................................
Both the husband and the wife aren't reliable.
Neither the husband nor the wife is reliable.

Anne and John both are scientists.
Anne and John are both scientists.
.................................................. ........................................
Two of the biggest firms are Apple and IBM, which both are in
the computer business.
Two of the biggest firms are Apple and IBM, which are both
in the computer business.

He's gone to buy a fresh bread.
He's gone to buy some fresh bread

The police had to break the door to get in,'
The police had to break down the door to get in.
.................................................. .................................................. ...
In an emergency situation, policemen, firemen, etc break down the
door of a room or building: 'If the door's locked, you'll just have to break it
down

After the breakfast, we went shopping.
After breakfast, we went shopping.
.................................................. ..............................
Before my breakfast I usually go for a run.
Before breakfast I usually go for a run.
.................................................. ................................................
When breakfast lunch dinner etc refer to an event (rather than to the
meal itself), they are used without a/the l my etc: 'What shall we do
after lunch?' 'Pam and Simon have invited us to dinner.' 'What time do
you have breakfast?'
You use a l the l my etc when you refer to the meal itself: 'We enjoyed
the evening, even though the dinner was cold.' 'I don't usually have time
for a cooked breakfast.'

There wasn't enough time to eat breakfast.
'There wasn't enough time to have breakfast.
.................................................. ..................................
While I am taking breakfast, I listen to the radio.
While I am having breakfast, I listen to the radio.
.................................................. .............................................
have (your) breakfast ~lunch dinner (NOT eat/ take): 'We had dinner
in the hotel restaurant.'
have sth for breakfast lunch dinner etc: 'What did you have for lunch?'
Do not use eat unless you wish to emphasize the activity of eating.
Compare: 'We prefer to have dinner in the evening.' 'James always takes
a long time to eat his dinner

Would you like me to bring you home?'
Would you like me to take you home?
.................................................. .........................
( whenever I go sightseeing, (bring my camera with me.
Whenever I go sightseeing, I take my camera with me.

I went back into the house to bring my sunglasses.
I went back into the house to fetch my sunglasses.

Global warming is bringing changes in the weather.
Global warming is bringing about changes in the weather.
.................................................. ....................................
Nuclear power could bring the destruction of our planet.
Nuclear power could bring about the destruction of our
planet.
.................................................. ...........................................
When you mean 'finally cause something to happen or exist', use bring
about: 'These new manufacturing methods brought about an increase in
production.' 'The company's poor performance was brought about by
factors beyond its control.'

Our tourist industry brings a lot of foreign exchange.
Our tourist industry brings in a lot of foreign exchange.
bring in = make or earn (money): 'The job keeps me busy and brings in
a little extra cash

I'm not working now because I'm bringing up my baby.
I'm not working now because I'm looking after my baby.
.................................................. .................................................. ..
bring up a child: 'Our parents brought us up to believe in the power of
truth.'
look after /take care of a baby: 'Who looks after the baby while you're at
work?

I shall never forget the place where I brought up.
I shall never forget the place where I was brought up.
.................................................. .................................................. .......
be brought up (by sb): 'I was brought up to believe that people were
basically kind.'

I would prefer to study in America or British.
I would prefer to study in America or Britain.
.................................................. .......................
The name of the country is Britain (or Great Britain).
British is an adjective: 'British industry', 'British Airways'.

I am learning English at British Council.
(I am learning English at the British Council. (2


the British Council: 'Professor Sinclair's visit was organized by the
British Council.'

The car could not stop because its brakes were broken.
The car could not stop because its brakes were not working.
.................................................. ......................................
% I turned on the radio but it was broken.
I turned on the radio but it wasn't working.
.................................................. .......................
broken = physically damaged: 'a broken windscreen'
not working = not functioning properly: 'I can't ring him because his
phone's not working.'

The best way to see London is to get in a bus.
The best way to see London is to get on a bus.
.................................................. ......................................
I( She said I was in the wrong bus.
She said I was on the wrong bus.
..................................................
be l get on a bus (NOT in): 'During the rush hour, it's quicker to walk than
get on a bus.'

1 often have to go abroad for business.
I often have to go abroad on business.
.................................................. .....................
8 My father is now in Paris on his business.
My father is now in Paris on business.
.................................................. .....................................
(be l go somewhere) on business: 'I'm off to Amsterdam tomorrow, on
business as usual.

I was busy with cooking the dinner.
I was busy cooking the dinner.
.................................................. .........................
be busy doing sth: 'She's busy trying to finish her thesis.'
Compare: 'I was busy with the housework.' 'I was busy doing the
housework.'

He managed to open the lid by a screwdriver.
He managed to open the lid with a screwdriver.
.................................................. ............................................
You do something with a tool, instrument, etc (NOT by): 'He opened the
envelope with a chopstick.' 'You can't eat spaghetti with a spoon.'

1 am staying in a small town by Oxford.
I am staying in a small town near Oxford.
.................................................. .............................
by = next to or very close to something: 'I've been sitting by the phone%ll
morning waiting for her to ring.' 'I'll meet you on the corner, by the bank.'
When talking about the position of towns, cities, countries etc, use near:
'I spent the first month in a little village called Farchant, near Garmen-
Partenkirchen.'

We can gain a lot of knowledge by these books;
We can gain a lot of knowledge from these books.
.................................................. .................................................. ....
You get information from a source: 'You can learn a great deal from a
good dictionary.' 'I obtained their new number from directory inquiries.'

Being locked up is a punishment by itself.
Being locked up is a punishment in itself.
.................................................. ..............
8 Money by itself is of no interest to me.
Money in itself is of no interest to me.
.................................................. ................................
in itself = without anything added: 'His offer to pay for the repairs is in
itself an admission of gui

Can you possibly send me an application form?
Could you possibly send me an application form?
.................................................. ............................................
? I'd be grateful if you can confirm whether you are coming.
I'd be grateful if you could confirm whether you are coming.
.................................................. .................................................. .....
To make a polite request, use could: 'Could you pass the butter,
please?'

The meeting has been cancelled until next Thursday.
The meeting has been postponed until next Thursday.
.................................................. .................................................. ..
cancel = arrange for a planned event not to take place after all: 'Five of
their players were either ill or injured, and so the match had to be
cancelled postpone = arrange for a planned event to take place at a later time or
date: 'We've decided to postpone the wedding until Steve has found a
job.

Her husband died 10 years ago of a lung cancer.
Her husband died 10 years ago of lung cancer.
.................................................. ..........................................
cancer (uncountable) = a type of serious disease: 'It is generally
believed that diet plays an important role in the prevention of cancer.'
'Skin cancer is related to prolonged exposure to sunlight.'
a cancer (countable) = an abnormal growth in someone's body which is
caused by this disease; tumour: 'Some small cancers may be destroyed
by the body's defence mechanisms.'

She is no longer capable to do her job properly.
She is no longer capable of doing her job properly.
.................................................. ................................
able to do sth: 'I hope you'll be able to come.'
capable of doing sth: 'She is quite capable of passing the exam,
provided that she does some work.'

Her blue eyes and long blond hair captured him. .A,
Her blue eyes and long blond hair captivated him. A,'
.................................................. .................................................. ...
capture = make someone a prisoner: 'That day they captured d e b
enemy soldiers.' 'The leader of the resistance group was captured and
executed.'
captivate = strongly attract and impress someone the day she
met him, she was captivated by his charm.'

The only thing they cared for was how to make money.
The only thing they cared about was how to make money.
.................................................. .............................................
It encourages readers to care for what they buy.
It encourages readers to care about what they buy.
.................................................. ..............................
Some criminals simply don't care of being caught.
Some criminals simply don't care about being caught.
.................................................. ........................
They don't take care about religion.
They don't care about religion.
.................................................. ...........................
care for = (1) (formal) like: 'Would you care for another drink?'
(2) = (usually adjectival or passive) look after: 'Don't worry. The child is
being well cared for.'
care (about) = think that something is important: 'I don't care (about)
how much it costs.' 'I don't care about the cost.'

Take care of not catching a cold.
Take care not to catch a cold.
.................................................. .........
You'd better take care of not offending her.
You'd better take care not to offend her.
.................................................. .......................................
Take care of means 'look after': 'Who's going to take care of the dog
while you're away?'
When you mean 'be careful to avoid something', use take care not to or
take care that you don't: 'He took great care not to let anyone know his
intentions

Some women stay at home to take care after the children.,\
Some women stay at home to take care of the children.
.................................................. .................................
The government must take care for the teachers.
The government must take care of the teachers,
.................................................. .....................
Who will take care about the shop?
Who will take care of the shop? 0 F-,
.................................................. .........................
take care of or look after sb l sth: 'After his mother died, there was
nobody to take care of him.'

After ten years as a taxi driver, he decided it was time to change
his career. a\
After ten years as a taxi driver: he decided it was time to
change his job l occupation.

I'd like to be a doctor or something related to that career.
I'd like to be a doctor or something related to that
profession.

I shall now describe how wedding ceremonies are carried out in
Iran.
I shall now describe how wedding ceremonies are
conducted in Iran.
.................................................. ...............................................
conduct/perforrn a ceremony or ritual (NOT carry out): 'The funeral
ceremony was conducted according to ancient traditions.'

I prefer to pay by cash.
.................................................. ........................................
I prefer to pay in cash.
I prefer to pay cash.
pay by cheque, pay by credit card BUT pay in cash or just pay cash:
'If you pay (in) cash, you might get a discount.'

The purse contained about $200 cash.
The purse contained about $200 in cash.
amount of money + in cash: '£550 in cash', '$190 in cash'

I have to catch up all the lessons I missed.
I have to catch up on all the lessons I missed.
.................................................. .......................................
catch up (on/with sth) = do the things that you should have done before
so that your work is up to date: 'Why don't you stay at home tonight and
catch up on some of your homework?'
Compare: 'Don't get too far behind with your homework or you'll never be
able to catch up.'

The cause why I want to change my job isas* follows.
The reason why I want to change my job is as follows.
.................................................. ...........................
For this cause the journey took a long time.
For this reason the journey took a long time.
.................................................. ................................................
cause = an action, event, situation etc ihat makes something happen:
'The cause of the fire is still being investigated.' 'These outbreaks of
violence will continue to occur until the causes have been eliminated.'
reason = something that provides an explanation: 'I'm sure that they
must have good reasons for wanting to live abroad.' 'The reason why
there is only one applicant is that the job wasn't advertised.'

The police wanted to know the cause for the acci

This causes that the children look for affection elsewhere.
This causes the children to look for affection elsewhere.
.................................................. ..............................................
cause sb to do sth (NOT cause that): 'A week-long power failure
caused the whole computer network to shut down.'
.................................................. .......................................
Smoking is one of the most important causes of lung cancer.
Smoking is one of the major causes of lung cancer.
.................................................. ..........................
a major l chief l primary cause (NOT important)
.................................................. ......................
Acid rain is caused by several reasons.
Acid rain has several causes.
.................................................. ....................................
Do not use reason after be caused by: 'The autopsy showed that her
death was caused by liver failure.'

During the flight she sat on the-chair behind me.
During the flight she sat in the seat behind me.
.................................................. ...........
seat = a place to sit, as found in a cinema, train, bus etc: 'To be on the
safe side, you'd better reserve a seat.'
chair = a movable seat for one person: 'Before the children go home,
they have to put all the chairs on top of the desks.

I am enclosing a cheque of £49.
I am enclosing a cheque for £49.
.................................................. ......
He gave me a cheque £5.
He gave me a cheque for £5.
.................................................. ....................
a cheque for an amount of money: 'He wrote me a cheque for $50.'

I believe that in this circumstance students should be allowed to
have a part-time job.
I believe that in these circumstances students should be
allowed to have a part-time job.
.................................................. .................................
Circumstances is nearly always used as a plural noun (WITH s): 'The
police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.' 'Under
normal circumstances, I would never have left my passport with a
stranger

Most people work in city centre.
Most people work in the city centre.
.................................................. ...........................
the city centre (WITH the): 'It's only five minutes by bus to the city
centre.

Each country has its own civilization and ideology.
Each country has its own culture and 'ideology.
.................................................. .......................
American civilization is very different from that of Japan.
American culture is very different from that of Japan.
.................................................. ...............................
civilization = (a society or group of societies having) a way of life that is
considered to be advanced in terms of culture and social organization:
'The remote mountain villages are still untouched by modem civilization.'
The film examines the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome, and
their contributions to Western society.'

I prefer classic music to pop.
I prefer classical music to pop.
.................................................. ...................
classic = being among the best or most typical of its class; serving as
a standard or model: The painting is a classic example of sixteenthcentury
Venetian art.'
classical music = the music of Mozart, Beethoven, etc

I love the sound of a classic guitar.
I love the sound of a classical guitar.
.................................................. ...................
a classical guitar = a guitar that is used to play classical music

The local residents would like to clean the neighbourhood.
The local residents would like to clean up the
neighbourhood.
.................................................. .........
clean up = (1) clean a place, especially by taking away all the things
which make it look dirty, untidy or unattractive: 'You can play in your
bedroom as long as you promise to clean it up afterwards.' (2) make an
area or organization a better place for people to live or work in,especially by removing criminals, corrupt officials, etc: 'It's time someone'e ",
cleaned up this city; we have one of the highest crime rates in the
country.'

I bought some cheap cloth to make some curtains.
I bought some cheap material to make some curtains.
.................................................. ..............................
Cloth (uncountable) usually refers to material made of cotton, wool etc
that is used for making clothes: 'The tailor took my measurements and
then showed me several rolls of cloth.'
Material (and fabric) have a more general meaning and may be used in
connection with clothes, curtains, sheets, etc: 'The cushion covers and
the curtains were made from the same material.' 'They specialize in the
manufacture of elasticated fabric.'

The dancers were dressed in their national clothes. ,.,f
The dancers were dressed in their national costume.
.................................................. ....................
costume = (1) (countable) a set of clothes worn during a performance
by an actor, clown, etc: 'She used to work for a theatre company,
designing and making costumes.' (2) (uncountable) a set of clothes that
are typical of a particular country or historical period: 'The castle guides
were dressed up in Elizabethan costume.' 'A group of Hungarian folk
dancers came on stage, all wearing national costume

For those who live by themselves, television provides a good
company.
For those who live by themselves, television provides good
company.
.........................................
When company means 'someone or something that stops you from
feeling lonely or bored; companionship', it is uncountable: 'Whenever he
goes off on a long trip, he takes his radio with him for company.'

It is childish to complain against rules.
It is childish to complain about rules.
.................................................. ................
They are always complaining for something.
They are always complaining about something.
.................................................. .............
complain about sth: 'Residents living near the airport have a lot to
complain about.'

I feel quite confident with my English.
I feel quite confident about my English
.................................................. ..................
confident about sth: 'The more familiar you are with the machine, the
more confident you will be about using it.'

I began to feel more confident of myself.
l began to feel more self-confident.
.................................................. ..................
If you have confidence in your own abilities, you feel self-confident:
'Even as a child he was surprisingly self-confident and didn't mind being
left with strangers.'

First of all I'd like to congratulate you both for your wedding.
First of all I'd like to congratulate you both on your wedding.
.................................................. .................................................. .........
congratulate sb on (doing) 9th: 'The President was among the first to
congratulate the crew on the success of their mission.' 'On behalf of the
school, I'd like to congratulate the first eleven on getting through to the
final

Congratulations for your splendid examination results!
Congratulations on your splendid examination results!
.................................................. ..............
congratulations on (doing) sth (NOT for): 'Congratulations on your
promotion. You certainly deserve it.'

We're considering to visit Switzerland next year.
We're considering visiting Switzerland next year
.................................................. .................................
consider doing sth (= think about something that you might do in the
future): 'To save money, we even considered repairing the roof
ourselves

The house was consisting of three bedrooms, a kitchen, and a
bathroom.
The house consisted of three bedrooms, a kitchen, and a
bathroom.

The group was consisted of ten people.
The group consisted of ten people
.................................................. ...........
.An extended family is consisted of at least two generations\
An extended family consists of at least two generations

The school consists on four large buildings.
The school consists of four large buildings.
consist of (NOT on): 'Spain consists of 51 different provinces.'

You can contact with me any evening after six.
You can contact me any evening after six.
.................................................. .....
contact sb (WITHOUT with): 'Unless we have an address or phone
number, we can't contact them.'
Compare: 'Mrs Lewis phoned and would like you to get in touch with her.'

The c****s join to form one continual waterway.
The c****s join to form one continuous waterway.
.................................................. ..................
A line of cars stretched continually down the motorway.
A line of cars stretched continuously down the motorway.
.................................................. ....................................
continual = happening repeatedly over a long period of time, especially
in a way that you find annoying: 'That telephone has been ringing
continually.'
continuous = without any break or interruption: 'Gas central heating
provides a continuous supply of hot water.'
I grew tired of his continuous moaning.
I grew tired of his continual moaning.
.................................................. ...........
The meeting was continuously interrupted. /-
The meeting was continually interrupted.

The driver was very lucky and was only slightly damaged.
The driver was very lucky and was only slightly hurt.
.................................................. .................................................
During the protests, some students were killed and others were
seriously damaged.
During the protests, some students were killed and others
were seriously injured l wounded.
.................................................. ...............................
Damaged is used in connection with things or parts of your body (NOT
people): 'The engine was too badly damaged to be repaired.' 'The cause
of the oil leak was a damaged pipeline.'
People are hurt or injured (badly hurt) in an accident, earthquake,
hurt .........: 'The scaffolding collapsed, killing one of the construction
workers and injuring two passers-by.'
Someone who is injured by a weapon, such as a gun or knife, is
wounded: 'He is accused of wounding a fellow prisoner.' 'The wounded
soldiers were sent home for medical treatment.'

The fire caused a lot of damages.
The fire caused a lot of damage.
.................................................. ....................................
( The car crashed into a tree and suffered a severe damage.
The car crashed into a tree and suffered severe damage.
.................................................. ................
In its usual meaning, damage is an uncountable noun: 'The insurance
company will pay for any damage.' 'The ceiling had suffered a great deal
of damage.'
damages (plural noun) =a sum of money that someone is awarded in a
court of law: 'She was awarded $3000 in damages.' 'She claimed
damages of £2000 for wrongful dismissal.

The floods made a lot of damage.
The floods did l caused a lot of damage.
.................................................. ........................
8 Most of the damage has been produced by acid rain. < (2
Most of the damage has been caused by acid rain. ,
.................................................. ..................................
do l cause damage (NOT make or produce): 'According to local farmers,
the rabbits do a lot of damage to the crops.' 'It's the Qas from fridges that
causes most of the damage.'

The bomb caused extensive damage of the surrounding
buildings. (
The bomb caused extensive damage to the surrounding
buildings.
.................................................. ....
( We all know about the damage-that smoking can do in our
health.
We all know about the damage that smoking can do to our
health

I dare to say that the book is worth reading.
I daresay that the book is worth reading.
.................................................. .......................
I daresay (also written I dare say) is a fixed phrase: 'I dare say that we'll
be hearing from them again.' 'The team will put up a good performance. I
daresay, but I don't think they'll win.'

He dares to die rather than break his promise.
He is prepared to die rather than break his promise.
.................................................. ..........
I didn't enjoy the drink but I dared to try it again.
I didn't enjoy the drink but I was ready to try it again.
.............................................
Dare (= have enough courage) is used mainly in negative sentences and
questions: 'I wouldn't dare to take the car without permission.' 'She stood
at the edge of the cliff, not daring to look down.'
In affirmative sentences, use be ready l prepared willing: 'Some people "\
are prepared to do anything for money.' 'Despite the threat c- hi- Ii*-
he's ready to testify.'

I daren't to ask her for any more money.
I daren't ask her for any more m,..,,.
.................................................. .................................
daren't do sth (WITHOUT to): 'I daren't tell George what happened or
he'll be furious.'
Compare: 'I don't dare to tell /tell George what happened ... .'

Some people watch television all the day. /
Some people watch television all day.

all day (WITHOUT the): 'What have you been doing all day?'

I'm afraid that I can't come at that day. *,'
I'm afraid that I can't come on that day ;.
.................................................. ...........
In the first day, my sunglasses disappeared.
On the first day, my sunglasses disappeared

In these days many children have their own computer.
These days many children have their own computer.
.................................................. .....................
these days (WITHOUT in l during etc): 'He's very busy these days.'
Note however: 'In those days cigarettes were much cheaper.'

In our days we know more about the causes of pollution.
Nowadays we know more about the causes of pollution.
.................................................. .................
The phrase 'in our days' does not exist. For this meaning, use
nowadays, these days, or today: 'I get the feeling that some people
nowadays cannot live without television.'

My father is dead when I was still a baby.
My father died when I was still a baby.
.................................................. ........................
The doctor said that she dead because the wound became
infected.
The doctor said that she died because the wound became
infected.
.................................................. ..............
Dead is an adjective and describes a state: 'I can't tell whether that plant
is dead or alive.' 'Some of the fish were dead and were floating on the
surface.'
Died is the past tense and past participle of die: 'I think she died from a
heart attack.' 'He died on the way to hospital.'
See also note at DIED

The purpose of this ceremony is to honour the dead people. "2
The purpose of this ceremony is to honour the dead.
.................................................. ........................
When you mean 'dead people', use the dead: 'At this time of the tea
the villages make offerings to the spirits of the dead.'

I shall either go home to Brazil or my family will come to
England.
Either I shall go home to Brazil or my family will come to
England.
.................................................. ..
We either can go by bus or by car.
We can go either by bus or by car.
.................................................. ...............
The position of either should be the same as the position of or (i.e.
immediately before a subject, immediately before a main verb,
immediately after a verb, etc): 'Either stay or go.' 'You should either stay
or go.' 'You should stay either here or at home.' 'You should stay with
either me or your uncle.'
Note that this rule applies mainly in formal styles. In everyday
conversation, either often goes immediately before the main verb: 'We
can either go by bus or by car.
.................................................. .....'
In fact, a motorway wouldn't either disturb the animals because
they are used to cars.
In fact, a motorway wouldn't disturb the animals either
because they are used to cars.
.................................................. .........................
When either is used after not l never etc, it goes at the end of the clause:
'John isn't going to the party, and Ray doesn't want to go either.'

The restaurant seems to be more popular with elder people.
The restaurant seems to be more popular with older people
.................................................. ................................
The young man was unhurt but the elder one was taken to
hospital in an ambulance.
The young man was unhurt but the older one was taken to
hospital in an ambulance.
.................................................. .....................................
Do not use elder unless you are talking about the members of a family:
'her elder brother', 'my elder son'.
I( My sister is just two years elder than me. /i ,
J My sister is just two years older than me. 2
Someone l something is older (than someone/something else: 'Their
children are older than ours.' 'Her husband is five years older.'
Elder is mainly used in front of a noun ('my elder sister') and as a
pronoun ('Which of the two sisters is the elder?')

John, her elderly son, is still at university?
John, her elder son, is still at university
.................................................. ............................................
elderly = old: 'an elderly man with white hair and a stick'
elder = (of brothers, daughters etc) older: 'our elder daughter