Commonly confused sound-alike words: Vol. N-P
This batch includes verbal cousins and homophones. Some people misspeak and use the wrong option; in other cases, the written form reveals the error.
My cumulative list of words commonly confused continues with 10 pairs or trios that begin with the letters N through P. The confusion relates to spelling or meaning.
1. nutritional/nutritious
The adjective nutritional means, “related to the process of nutrition,” that is, using food to support life.
Example: The nutritional value of one egg is the equivalent of one ounce of meat.
The adjective nutritious means “nourishing or healthy to eat.” Example: A nutritious breakfast can help prevent overeating and snacking later in the day.
2. noisome/noisy
The adjective noisome means, “offensive to the smell or other senses.”
Example: I was repelled by the noisome smell that accompanied the speaker back from the smoking area.
The adjective noisy means, “characterized by the presence of noise.”
Example: Many writers find it difficult to work in a noisy environment.
3. observance/observation
The performance of a customary rite is an observance.
Example: The observance of Memorial Day includes military parades and the placing of flowers on graves.
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