Introduction

This Section deals with a number of words which often cause problems to do with meaning and grammar. Some other words are more conveniently explained in the grammatical Sections: search the Index for references.

Note that a general usage guide like this only has room to cover a limited selection of word problems. For a wider and more detailed treatment, a separate reference book is needed.

Do you know what’s wrong with these, and why?

According to me, he’s an idiot. (see here)

In 1840, the population of Ireland was higher than it is actually. (see here)

‘I’m tired.’ ‘I also.’ (see here)

My sister looks just as me. (see here)

The train’s late, as usually. (see here)

We arrived to the airport in the middle of the night. (see here)

When we were at first married we lived with my parents. (see here)

My girlfriend won me at poker. (see here)

You can’t park before the station. (see here)

My aunt has a little house besides the river. (see here)

Can I lend your bike? (see here)

Thanks for taking me here. It’s lovely. (see here)

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in England. (see here)

Can you clean this suit until Friday? (see here)

I asked the garage to control the brakes and steering. (see here)

The Prince always looks so handsome in an evening dress. (see here)

We have a spare room for eventual visitors. (see here)

I’m afraid that colour doesn’t fit me. (see here)

Chess is a very slow play. (see here)

I have big respect for our MP. (see here)

He was driving fast indeed when he crashed. (see here)

He’s quite anti-social, but instead he’s very generous. (see here)

No doubt the world is getting warmer. (see here)

I don’t like nowadays fashion. (see here)

There’s a supermarket right in front of my house. (see here)

It’s good if a child can have an own room. (see here)

From my point of view, war is always wrong. (see here)

What’s your principle reason for wanting to work here? (see here)

Remember me to call Andy. (see here)

Supper tonight is rests from lunch. (see here)

If you shout at her she’ll cry. She’s terribly sensible. (see here)

I’m hot. Let’s find some shadow to sit in. (see here)

When he laughs so, I want to scream. (see here)