Page 10 - Ranger PT3 2022 - English

Commonly misused words

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1 Can or May? 2 Its or It‛s
Can refers to someone’s ability to do something, It’s shows possession when describing a thing
may is used to ask permission. that belongs to something, and the it’s is the
contraction for ‘it is’ or ‘it has’.

Can you dance? May I go to the toilet? Its trunk. It’s long.

3 Borrow or lend 4 Affect or Effct

Lend means give something Affect is a verb which shows
to someone for a short time impact on something. Effect
whereas borrow means getting is a noun showing results of
something from someone for a an action.
short period of time.
Smoking will affect our
health,
Can you lend me your pencil for a while? The effect of smoking
May I borrow your pencil for a while? is dangerous especially
to babies and pregnant
ladies.

5 Then or Than 6 Advise or advice

Then refers to time. Than is used to make a Advise is the verb for offering suggestions.
comparison. Advice is a noun referring to guidance.
We’ll go to school first, then the post office. The advice was helpful.
I like chicken more than vegetables. I advise him to be more helpful.

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