Confusing Words Clarified Group E

Confusing Words Clarified Group E

http://www.wordinfo.info/words/index/info/view_unit/4336/?letter=C&spage=20

All of the main entries in these "Confusing Words" groups are explained, or defined, followed by pronunciations, and sentences which are meant to enhance your understanding of their meanings.
The definitions provided are based on dictionary presentations and are meant to help you differentiate between the various meanings of each word group.

Many current dictionaries, popular writing books, specialized topical resources, and style guides were consulted for these groups so you can develop better word skills and communication tools.
In your daily writing, be aware of what the "right words are for the correct meanings" so you can improve your writing accuracy in a positive way.

earn, urn
earn (URN)
To acquire as a result of effort or action: "After all your hard work, you will earn the prize as the best speller."
urn (URN)
An ornamental vase for holding the ashes of the dead: "The ornamental urn held the ashes of her father after he was cremated."
An urn is where a person exists after he, or she, is cremated.
 
earthly, earthy
earthly (URTH lee)
Suggestive of belonging to the earth; ordinary, practical: "I could think of no earthly reason to say no to the request for ice cream on a hot day."
earthy (UR thee)
1. Practical and straightforward; open and direct: "People were impressed by the speaker's earthy realism."
2. Plain and simple in style: "This restaurant tends to serve food that is made with simple, earthy ingredients."
3. Not polite; somewhat rude or crude: "His humor tends to be earthy and impolite."
We went to the new restaurant which served earthy, organic foods, because none of us could think of any earthly reason to go to a high priced restaurant.
 
eave, eve
eave, eaves (EEV, EEVZ)
The lower edge of a roof that overhangs the wall: "The mountain chalet had wide eaves to protect the windows from the snowfall."
eve (EEV)
1. Typically used to refer to the night before a special day: "December 31 is New Year’s Eve and many people like to go to parties."
2. The period of time just before an important event: "The students were nervous on the eve of their graduation."
It was on a cold winter’s eve, just a week before New Year’s Eve, when we thought we heard footsteps on the eaves of our house and we all went out to investigate.
 
effective, effectual, efficient
effective (i FEK tiv)
Capable of having a decisive or desired result: "Brushing your teeth twice every day is an effective way to reduce tooth decay."
effectual (i FEK choo uhl)
Having produced or caused the desired result: "A trained police force was effectual in reducing crime in the city."
efficient (i FISH uhnt)
Achieving the desired result with a minimum of waste: "The new water heater in the kitchen was very efficient."
Reading the manual on teaching fractions is a very effective way to increase the effectual nature of the teachers who are always striving to be efficient.
 
e.g. (Latin), exempli gratia; i.e. (Latin), id est
e.g. (ig zem" plee GRAY shee uh; ek SEM plee GRAT tee a")
For example: "Many of the products in our stores are imported from many countries, e.g. Germany, Japan, and China."
i.e. (id est)
That is, namely; used to introduce something that explains a preceding statement more fully or exactly: "The medicine needs to be taken for a short period of time; i.e., three to five days."
When the teacher was correcting her students' essays, she noticed that they frequently confused e.g. as in exempli gratia, "for example" with i.e. from id est, "that is", which suggests a clear explanation is to follow.
 
egg (noun), egg (verb)
egg (EG)
As a noun, the round or oval female reproductive body of various animals, including birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects, consisting usually of an embryo surrounded by nutrient material and a protective covering: "He likes to consume at least one egg every day."
egg (EG)
As a verb, to encourage or to incite to action: "The basketball fans continued to egg their team on again and again."
The football fans were eager to egg their team on to victory; however, in their enthusiasm, they threw eggs at their opponents, making everyone upset.
 
egoism, egotism
egoism (EE goh iz" uhm, EG oh iz" uhm)
A policy or doctrine that suggests that self interest is a valid reason for all actions: "Unfortunately, the recent events in Parliament suggest that egoism is the prevalent doctrine, excluding consideration of national interests."
egotism (EE guh tiz" uhm, EG uh tiz" uhm)
An overblown sense of self importance: "His egotism stood in the way of his making practical decisions."
Judging from the headlines, it would appear that the egotism of the prime minister is reflected in the egoism of current legislation which appears to favor industry and commerce.
 
egoist, egotist
egoist (EE goh ist)
Someone who constantly talks about himself; who is boastful and conceited: "She confided to her friend that Mr. Smith was such an egoist, talking about himself all the time, he was really very boring."
egotist (EE guh tist)
A person who pursues a policy of self-seeking and whose actions are determined by self-interest: "Mr. Smith was such an egotist, thinking only of himself, that no one would support his decision to run for mayor."
An egoist is a person of low taste, more interested in himself than me.
An egotist is a person with self admiration letting off esteem and someone who has his I's too close together.
 
egress, ingress
egress (EE gres)
A way out or an exit: "People who use an egress will find themselves outside."
ingress (IN gres)
A place or means of entering, an entrance: "People who use an ingress will be entering a building or similar structure."
A story that was going around some years ago, the source for which is now unknown, relates how P.T. Barnum was presenting a "freak" show in a tent. In those days, it cost each person five cents to wander around and gawk at the deformed people and animals.
It seemed that too many people stayed too long to look and there wasn't enough room for the new customers; so, Barnum had a sign set up next to one of the tent-flap exits saying, This way to the Egress.
Not knowing what an Egress was (or meant), the people would go through the door-type flap of the tent and they found themselves outside. If they wanted to go back in, then they had to pay the entrance fee again.
 
either, ether
either (EE thuhr, IGH ther)
One or the other: "You will need to choose either toast and tea or eggs and ham for breakfast."
ether (EE thuhr)
A volatile, highly flammable liquid, used chiefly in industry and as an anesthetic: "The doctor used ether so the patient was asleep during the operation."
The patient was faced with a choice; either the doctor could use ether or a local anesthetic for the minor operation.
 
either ... or, neither ... nor
either ... or (EE thuhr...OR, IGH ther...OR)
A choice between only two alternatives: "The decision was to travel either by bus or by train."
neither ... nor (NEE thuhr...NOR, NIGH thuhr...NOR)
A choice between two or more alternatives: "On the multiple choice questionnaire, neither #1 nor #2 were the correct answers."
 
elegy, eulogy
elegy (EL uh jee)
Chiefly, a poem of sorrow for the dead: "Thomas Gray wrote a famous elegy which is often quoted at funerals."
eulogy (YOO luh jee)
High praise, written or spoken, usually about someone who has died: "The speech was so full of praise for the president, it sounded like an eulogy instead of a nomination speech."
Eulogy is praise that is usually too much and too late.
 
elicit, illicit, licit
elicit (i LIS it)
To draw out, extract, or to bring forth: "The teacher tried to elicit an answer from her students."
illicit (i LIS it)
Not permitted, unlawful, illegal, banned: "He was caught with illicit drugs in his briefcase."
licit (LIS it)
Permitted by law; legal: "They claimed that their activities were licit under the law."
The licit activities of the sheriff are often seen by criminals as attempts to elicit information about illicit activities.
 
eligible, illegible, ineligible, legible
eligible (EL i juh b'l)
Qualified, entitled: "Maria is eligible for a secretarial position."
illegible (i LEJ uh b'l)
Unreadable: "Many people write so carelessly that their writing is illegible."
ineligible (in EL i juh buhl)
Not qualified or permitted to participate: "Because of his low grades, he was ineligible for playing on the baseball team."
legible (LEJ uh b'l)
Writing which is clear and plain enough to be understood: "The journals were written in a legible hand by the secretary."
Who would be the most eligible for the new position: The person who had the most legible handwriting but had poor Public Relations skills, or the one who had illegible handwriting but who was great with people?
Finally, it was decided that the person with good handwriting but poor PR skills was ineligible for the position.
 
emanate, eminent, immanent, immediate, imminent
emanate (EM uh nayt")
To come forth, as from a certain source: "The smoke seemed to emanate from the distant chimney."
eminent (EM uh nuhnt)
1. Well-known, prominent, renowned: "The doctor was an eminent surgeon."
2. Rising above other things or places: "The snow capped mountain was eminent among the other low hills."
immanent (IM uh nuhnt)
1. Living, remaining, or operating within, inherent: "She demonstrated immanent good sense in her dress and behavior."
2. Present throughout the universe, said of God: "Transcendent, immanent and indwelling the universe, time, etc.; or God as immanent and existing in and extending into all parts of the created universe."
3. A thought or activity which occurs within the mind: "Thinking or day dreaming is an immanent activity."
4. Qualities or characteristics which are common throughout something: "Self preservation is an immanent characteristic of most mammals."
immediate (i MEE dee it)
1. That which happens or is accomplished with a minimum of time or distance: "The clap of thunder was immediate after the flash of lightening."
2. Happening without disruption or delay: "The telegram asked for an immediate answer."
3. To describe one's position in relation to others; next in line: "I was her most immediate relative."
imminent (IM uh nuhnt)
1. Likely to happen without delay, near at hand; that which may happen at any moment: "Judging by the gray clouds in the sky, a thunder storm is imminent."
2. Immediate, ready to happen without further notice: "Leaping onto the subway tracks places you in imminent danger and is a foolish thing to do."
 
emerge, emerse, immerge
emerge (i MURJ)
To come forth, to rise up, to come into sight is usually followed by from: "Mary was seen with her hair dripping as she was about to emerge from the swimming pool."
"The sun is about to emerge from behind those fleecy clouds."
emerse (ee MURS)
The term emerse appears to be no longer used in English except in an adjectival, or past-participle, form which is primarily used in botany: "A water lily standing out of the water with its surrounding leaves is said to emerse from the water."
immerge (i MURJ)
To plunge or to sink into and to disappear; while in its former meaning, it is synonymous with immerse: "The chemist will immerge the metal rod into the acid."
"The faint moon will immerge into the shadow of the sun."
The facts are beginning to emerge about the incident downtown when the marchers in the parade immerged their feet in the reflecting pool that bordered their route.
 
emeritus, merit, meritorious
emeritus (i MER i tuhs)
Being retired from a professional position; holding an equivalent rank or title to that held prior to retirement: "The professor emeritus was invited back to the school to give a guest lecture."
merit (MER it)
Behavior or conduct deserving of positive recognition and honor: "Her service on the committee was of the highest merit."
meritorious (mer" i TOR ee uhs, mer i TOHR ee uhs)
Behavior or actions that deserve esteem and honor: "The youth received a medal in recognition of his meritorious contributions to helping handicapped people."
The professor emeritus really did merit the award she received for her meritorious contribution to the fund raising efforts of the school.
 
emersed, immersed
emersed (i MURST)
Rising above the surface of a liquid: "The lilies were emersed in the pond."
immersed (i MURST)
To dip into a liquid or to be covered by a liquid: "The dirty dishes were immersed in a sink full of soapy water."
 
emersion, immersion
emersion (i MUR zhuhn, i MUR shuhn)
The act or process of rising from a position or situation: "Her emersion from obscurity to a position of leadership was amazing."
immersion (i MUR zhuhn, i MUR shuhn)
The act or process of being under liquid or below the surface: "When she went swimming, she experienced the total immersion of being underwater."
 
emigrant, immigrant
emigrant (EM i gruhnt)
An individual or object that has left a country or location to settle in another location: "They found a rare orchid which was an emigrant from the tropics."
immigrant (IM i gruhnt)
An individual or object which has come from a different location and settled in a new area: "My grandfather was an immigrant from France."
The story of the settlement of the nation is a combined narrative of immigrants coming from their homelands to settle and to build the next generation of emigrants who have moved from the cities out onto the prairies to farm.
 
emigrate, immigrate
emigrate (EM uh grayt")
To leave a place; to leave one country for another: "The entire family made the decision to emigrate to Canada."
immigrate (IM uh grayt")
To enter a new environment, country, or region; especially, with the purpose of settling there: "During the hard economic times, many people decide to immigrate to cities, looking for work."
 
emit, omit
emit (i MIT)
To give voice to, to send out or to give off: "He was so unhappy, he simply had to emit a groan of dissatisfaction and despair."
"The satellite will emit a bleep every time it goes around the earth."
omit (oh MIT)
To forget or fail to make use of or to include someone or something: "We decided to omit the last sentence in our quest for brevity."
"Please don't omit any details."
When you are writing your short story, don't omit the graphic description of the protagonist when he emits a sound of despair as he misses his train.
 
emollient, emolument
emollient (i MUL yuhnt)
That which soothes or softens: "The pharmacist created an emollient for dry skin."
emolument (i MUL yuh muhnt)
The compensation or rewards associated with employment: "An important question to ask during a job interview is about the emolument for the position, e.g. wages and other benefits."
There are those who say that the emolument of the job is the real emollient for all of the long hours they have to spend working.
 
empathy, sympathy
empathy (EM puh thee)
Feeling or understanding the thoughts and experiences of another without direct communication: "She felt a great empathy for the woman whose difficulties were described in the newspaper article."
sympathy (SIM puh thee)
The ability or capacity of an individual to relate to or to share the experiences and feelings of another person: "When he lost his job, his partner showed great sympathy and support."
 
empire, umpire
empire (EM pighr")
A large number of physical territories and people which are under the political control of an individual country: "The explorers who sailed around the world for the first time claimed land and people as part of their empire."
umpire (UM pighr")
1. An individual who is appointed to help make decisions in a situation of controversy between parties: "During the negotiations to end the conflict, the mayor was appointed as umpire to help sort out the issues."
2. In sports, an individual who supervises and enforces the rules of a game: "The umpire for the baseball tournament used to be a famous player."
The umpire was hired by the bosses of the company empire who were sponsoring the ball team.
 
enable, unable
enable (e NAY buhl)
To make easy, possible, or practical: "This device will enable the students to calculate the right answer very quickly."
unable (un AY buhl)
Incapable or helpless: "Despite her best intentions, she was unable to answer the questions in time."
The teacher said that she was unable to give the student a higher mark on his test which would have enabled him to qualify for the football team.
 
end, endings; inning, innings
end (END)
1. A point that marks the limit of something or the point at which something no longer continues to happen or to exist: "Her report is due at least by the end of the month."
2. Stopping a condition, activity, or course of action: "The death of the writer was the end of an era of such outstanding historical presentations."
endings (EN dingz)
1. The final parts of something: "The book had more endings than usual."
2. Letters which are added to the final parts of words; such as, suffixes: "Many endings of English words include -ed, -s, -less, -ful, and -ing."
inning (IN ing)
One of the normally nine parts of a baseball game in which each team bats until three outs are made: "The batter hit two home runs in the second inning."
innings (IN ingz)
1. Chances or opportunities for actions and turns to accomplish goals or objectives: "Now the winning politicians will have their innings to prove that they can do what they claimed."
2. Multiple parts of a baseball game: "The pitcher was doing very well for five innings before he was replaced."
The end of the fourth inning of the game was called because of the rain; however, past experiences have indicated that the endings of the games for seasons can never be told until all of the innings have been played.
 
endemic, epidemic, pandemic
endemic (en DEM ik)
Native to a particular locale or region: "The bison are endemic to the plains of North America."
epidemic (ep" i DEM ik)
Very prevalent in a specific area: "The doctors were afraid of an epidemic of flu in the schools during the winter."
pandemic (pan DEM ik)
That which occurs over a wide geographical, or international, area and effects large numbers of individuals: "The outbreak of flu appeared to be pandemic and the medical profession worked hard to contain it."
The pandemic enthusiasm for soccer spread like an epidemic among the fans; especially, those for whom soccer is endemic to their culture.
 
enervate, innervate
enervate (EN uhr vayt")
To decrease or to reduce vitality or strength: "The woman's illness had a strong tendency to enervate her former energetic behavior."
innervate (IN uhr vayt", i NUR vayt")
1. To stimulate (a nerve, muscle, or body part) to action: "The doctor invented a special machine to innervate the tired muscles of the runners’ legs."
2. To supply (an organ or a body part) with nerves: "The finger tips are equipped with sensitive nerves in order to innervate people so they can be aware of their physical existence."
There was no need to innervate the crowd in the stadium because the people were enthusiastic enough.
If anything, it would be more important to enervate their enthusiasm before they head out on to the streets.
 
entomology, etymology
entomology (en" tuh MAHL uh jee)
The study of insects: "When asked, the woman replied that her sister studied bugs when she was at the university; when the woman really meant to say her sister studied entomology."
etymology (et" uh MAHL uh jee)
The act of tracing the origins, derivations, and developments of words: "She became famous through her work in the etymology and use of rare words."
"Etymology makes it possible to better understand the origin and meanings of words."
An etymologist is a person who knows the difference between the words etymology and entomology.
 
entry, entré
entry (EN tree)
1. A door or gate allowing one to enter a space: "The entry to the house was through the double doors."
2. A record or accounting of a fact or event: "The entry in the journal was helpful for the students of history."
entré (AHN tray, ahn TRAY)
The main or featured dish at a meal: "The entré for the evening meal was a finely prepared salmon."
 
envelop, envelope
envelop (in VEL uhp)
As a verb, to wrap around; to cover completely; to conceal, to hide: "In a play about Mozart, he is visited by someone who chose to envelop himself in a dark cape so as to be unrecognizable."
envelope (EN vuh lohp, AHN vuh lohp")
As a noun, a cover or a paper wrapper holder for a letter: "Don't forget to put a stamp on the envelope before you mail it."
 
envy, covet, desire
envy (EN vee)
Angry or resentful awareness of the advantages enjoyed by another person or people: "The envy the older brother felt about the fact his brother was able to go to university often upset him."
covet (KUV it)
To wish for or to desire something that belongs to another individual: "As long as she could remember, she was told by her mother not to covet her sister’s bright red hair."
desire (di ZIGHR)
To hope or to express a wish for something: "In my heart of hearts, I desire a rich and famous boy friend."
 
epic, epoch
epic (EP ik)
Typically a story or writing describing the legendary and heroic events and happenings of a period in history: "The father read an epic to his children about a particular cowboy."
epoch (EP uhk, EE puhk")
A time in history that is set off by specific events or happenings: "The creation of the printing press marked the beginning of the epoch of literacy for many Europeans and future generations around the world."
 
epigram, epigraph
epigram (EP i gram")
A wise or witty saying: "Benjamin Franklin knew how to present an epigram about many topics and so he was famous for his numerous epigrams."

Here are a few examples of Benjamin Franklin's epigrams:

"Genius without Education is like Silver in the Mine."
"Keep our eyes wide open before marriage, half shut afterwards."
"He's a Fool who makes his Doctor his Heir."
"Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."
Additional epigrams are available at this "Benjamin Franklin: A Genius of Many Gifts" page.
epigraph (EP i graf")
1. An engraved or carved inscription on something; such as, a statue or building: "The epigraph over the entry to the building gave the date when it was built."
2. A quotation at the beginning of a book, chapter, or section of a book, usually related to its theme: "There is an appropriate and amusing epigraph located every so often in this dictionary."
 
epitaph, epithet
epitaph (EP uh taf")
Something written or said in memory of a dead person; especially, words written on a gravestone:
"Here lies Pecos Bill
He always lied
He once lied loud
He now lies still."
epithet (EP uh thet")
1. A term used to characterize, or to describe, a person or thing: "His charitable works have earned him the epithet 'Mr. Philanthropy'."
2. An offensive word or name that is used as a way of abusing or insulting someone or others: "There was a group of angry people hurling one epithet after another at each other."
An epitaph is sometimes a statement that tells monumental lies or epithets above about the person who lies below.
 
equable, equitable
equable (EK wuh buhl, EE kwuh buhl)
Lacking in extreme variation or difference: "She demonstrated an equable temper despite the circumstances."
equitable (EK wi tuh buhl)
Fairness, lacking in favoritism: "Their mother was always equitable with distributing treats and discipline."
 
era, error
era (IR uh, EHR uh)
A point in time from which an event or significant period in history is marked: "The popularity of the automobile marked the beginning of an era of expanding transportation options for people."
error (EHR uhr)
An act or situation based on unintentionally inaccurate information: "The bank clerk noticed an error in the balance sheet of the customer."
 
erasable, irascible
erasable (i RAYS uh b'l)
That which can be removed from something as with an eraser: "The formula which was written on the blackboard was erasable as soon as it was solved."
irascible (i RAS uh b'l)
Easily angered; quick tempered: "My neighbor has an irascible disposition."
 
erect, eruct
erect (i REKT)
1. Being in a vertical, upright position: "The judge's posture was strong and erect."
2. To construct by assembling: "The farmers all got together to erect the new barn after the fire."
3. To raise to a rigid or upright condition: "The gardener was careful to tie the flowers in an erect position so they would bloom better."
eruct (i RUKT)
To belch: "His mother always reminded him it was not polite to eruct or belch in public."
 
erotic, erratic
erotic (i ROT ik)
Suggestive of sexual interest or desire: "The ancient prints in the museum depicted the deities of antiquity enjoying erotic interests."
erratic (i RAT ik)
Characterized by no fixed course of action or purpose: "When she was very tired, her driving skills were erratic and dangerous."
 
erratum (s), errata (pl)
erratum, singular (i RAH tuhm, i RAY tuhm)
An error in a publication discovered after the publication has been printed; the correction of which is made available on a separate sheet: "The publisher called attention to the erratum in the book by including the correction on a blue sheet of paper."
errata, plural (i RAH tuh, i RAY tuh)
A list of corrections of errors in a publication: "I noticed on page #3 in the introduction that there was an errata as indicated by the book publisher."
 
eruption, irruption
eruption (i RUP shuhn)
An incidence of violent explosion: "The eruption of the volcano took everyone by surprise."
irruption (i RUP shuhn)
A violent incursion or sudden invasion: "The irruption of the population of rats in the city caused the health officials to be very concerned."
 
especial, spacial, special
especial (i SPESH uhl)
Distinctive, noteworthy, personal, of special significance: "In the speech, the college president paid especial attention to the awards the research department had achieved."
spacial (SPAY shuhl)
A description of the three dimensional spaces in which objects have relative direction or position: "To be a competent artist, you need to have a good sense of spacial relationships."
special (SPESH uhl)
Unusual and readily distinguishable from other objects or individuals or events: "The two little girls were special friends and played together all the time."
 
eunuch, unique
eunuch (YOO nuhk)
A man who has been castrated: "It is said that Cleopatra employed several eunuchs as private servants."
unique (yoo NEEK)
Unequaled, distinctive, one of a kind; typically used without qualifying modifiers: "The color of her eyes was unique and enchanting."
 
evade, invade
evade (i VAYD)
To avoid in a dexterous manner, turn aside, baffle: "He tried to evade telling the truth by giving ambiguous answers to the police."
invade (in VAYD)
An encroachment with the intent to take over, conquer, or to plunder: "The weeds in the field will invade the garden unless they are cut down."
 
ever, never
ever (EV uhr)
1. At all times; always: "He was ever hoping that he would strike it rich."
2. At any time: "The crime rate is higher now than it has ever been."
3. To a greater degree: "Technology in recent years has become ever more sophisticated."
never (NEV uhr)
Not ever; on no occasion; at no time: "He had never been there before."
"You never can be sure about much of anything these days."
 
every day, everyday
every day (EV ree DAY)
Each day or daily: "At school the students have two breaks every day."
everyday (EV ree DAY)
1. Ordinary, typical, or usual: "It rained so often it seemed like an everyday occurrence."
2. Something that is used or seen daily; suitable for daily use: "Don't let the problems of everyday life affect you to such a degree that you are emotionally upset."
 
everyone, every one
everyone (EV ree wun")
An inclusive word referring to every person or individual: "The invitation to the fete was issued to everyone in the village."
every one (EV ree wun")
Every individual without exception: "The children noticed that every one of the kittens had blue eyes."
 
everything, every thing
everything (EV ree thing")
Inclusive of all that relates to a subject or topic: "The boy wanted to know everything about the butterflies in the garden."
every thing (EV ree thing")
Every single or individual object: "They were told to do everything listed on their schedule and not to miss one item."
 
evils, weevils
evils (EE vuhlz)
1. Things that are morally bad or wrong; wickedness: "Why are there so many evils caused by people against others?"
2. Things that are causes or sources of suffering, injuries, or destruction: "The social evils of poverty and injustice still exist on a global scale."
weevils (WEE vuhlz)
Any of numerous beetles, especially the snout beetle, that characteristically have a downward-curving snout and are destructive to nuts, fruits, stems, and roots: "The weevils practically destroyed most of the almond trees in our area this year."
As for evils, I try to eliminate the weevils in my orchards.
 
evoke, invoke, revoke
evoke (i VOHK)
To summon, call forth, or recollect: "Seeing the valley served to evoke strong memories of growing up in the mind of the tourist."
invoke (in VOHK)
To solicit or to request help or support: "In ancient mythology, the priests would invoke the deities to protect the sailors on the seas."
revoke (ri VOHK)
To take back, to annul, or to recall: "Their father decided to revoke his permission for the children to go swimming and they went to the movies instead."
 
evolution, revolution
evolution (ev" uh LOO shuhn)
Process of change, typically involving development from a less complex status to a more complex one: "The evolution of childhood is marked by many opportunities for fun and learning."
revolution (rev" uh LOO shuhn)
1. An unexpected, fundamental, and radical change, often in relation to a political context: "The student revolution on the university campus surprised everyone."
2. A measure of time for a celestial body to complete the orbit around its axis: "The approximate revolution of the earth around the sun is 365 days."
 
evolve, devolve
evolve (i VOLV)
To produce by natural change and development: "The expectations of the residents of the city in terms of services usually evolve over time."
devolve (di VOLV)
The change of power and authority from a central power or governing body to that of a more local center: "The Corporation decided to devolve the control of sales from the head office to the local authorities."
 
exalt, exult
exalt (ig ZAWLT)
1. To glorify and to praise: "The songs they sang each morning served to exalt the beauty of the day."
2. To raise in rank, character, or status: "His reputation for good works will exalt his character in the eyes of his neighbors."
exult (ig ZULT)
To be in high spirits or to rejoice greatly: "I could only exult at the good news from my publisher."
 
exceed, excel
exceed (ik SEED)
To go beyond typically established guidelines or limits: "Suddenly I noticed I was about to exceed the speed limit near the school."
excel (ik SEL)
To surpass, to be superior in achievement: "The twins appeared to excel more when they were singing together than when they sang solo."
 
exceptionable, exceptional
exceptionable (ik SEP shuh nuh buhl)
Liable to be objectionable or offensive: "The teachers attempted to censor the exceptionable passages in the new novel assigned to the students."
exceptional (ik SEP shuh nuhl)
Differing from the norm, either better than average or worse than average: "There was an exceptional amount of rain this summer and as a result, the rivers ran very high."
 
excerpt, extract
excerpt (EK surpt")
1. As a noun; a carefully selected literary passage, usually small or short: "As part of her speech to the doctors, the nurse read an excerpt from her medical text."
2. As a verb; to extract, to select, to take out, or to quote passages from a book, etc.: "When you decide to excerpt a passage from a book or text, be sure to credit it properly; otherwise,ou might be accused of plagiarism."
extract (ik STRAKT)
Usually a large selection from a literary passage: "Bob was to write the extract from the exciting new novel for the book review."
 
exclude, exude
exclude (ik SKLOOD)
To restrict or to prevent participation or involvement in a situation or activity: "The new rules were designed to exclude pets from living in the apartment building."
exude (ig ZOOD, ik SOOD)
1. To show off in an effusive manner: "She seemed to exude good humor and charm."
2. To spread out in all directions: "The spilled oil seemed to exude all over the garage floor."
 
exclusive, inclusive
exclusive (ik SKLOO siv)
Restricted limited use or possession by a small group and/or individuals: "The tennis court appeared to be for the exclusive use by the members of the private club."
inclusive (in KLOO sive)
1. Covering or including everything: "The bill submitted to the accountant was inclusive, not leaving out a single item."
2. Open to everyone; not limited to certain people: "We joined the inclusive club because we wanted to meet all kinds of people from various cultures."
 
exercise, exorcise
exercise (EK suhr sighz")
1. To use frequently and repeatedly to strengthen: "She attempted to goo the gymnasium daily to exercise so she would be ready to run the marathon."
2. To carry out an official function or duty: "He will exercise his responsibilities as vice president to the best of his ability."
exorcise (EK sor sighz" EKS or sighz")
To free or to get rid of something that is perceived as evil or difficult: "I joined the freedom march as a way to exorcise myself from feeling guilty about my ancestors."
"The novel was about a priest who tried to exorcise demons from a young man and his sister."
 
exhaustible, exhausting, exhaustive
exhaustible (ig ZOST i buhl)
Possessing characteristics that suggest a depletion or using up of resources: "Timber is an exhaustible resource due to the lack of foresight by the lumber companies."
exhausting (ig ZOST ing)
1. Characterized by using all of one's mental or physical energy: "Running the marathon is an exhausting activity."
2. Completely using up something; such as, supplies or financial resources: "They kept over spending until they finally realized that they were exhausting all of their money."
exhaustive (ig ZAW stiv)
A thorough and complete study or consideration of information: "To complete his degree, he undertook an exhaustive study of the use of the printing press over the decades."
 
exhort, export, extort
exhort (ig ZORT)
To raise interest in something by strong argument or urging: "The student leader attempted to exhort his friends to march to the government buildings."
export (ik SPORT, ik SPOHRT, EK sport", EK spohrt")
When trading, the movement of goods or ideas from one location to another: "The people were proud to be able to export their grain crops to poor countries."
extort (ik STORT)
To obtain something through intimidation or illegal power: "The courts realized that the gangster had tried to extort money from the business owners."
 
expand, expend
expand (ik SPAND)
1. To spread out, open out, stretch out: "She stood on the lawn to expand her arms as if to embrace the whole world."
2. To make greater in size: "He used a special tool to expand the width of the pipe."
expend (ik SPEND)
1. To spend or to use something: "When running, try not to expend all your energy in the first few minutes."
2. To use time, energy, effort, etc. for a particular purpose or objective: "We must be willing to expend the time and resources required to complete this project."
 
expanse, expense
expanse (ik SPANS)
Descriptive of something spread out, taking up a lot of space: "The wide expanse of the Pacific Ocean is impressive."
expense (ik SPENS)
Cost which may be financial or an effort to achieve a goal or an end: "The expense of the new addition to the hospital was considerable."
 
expansive, expensive
expansive (ik SPAN siv)
Generosity, high spirited, or an exaggerated sense of self worth: "Her expansive personality was charming and helped her to make many friends."
expensive (ik SPEN siv)
Characterized by high cost or a price typically beyond the means of the person involved in a negotiation: "The bids on the antique at the auction became too expensive for her pocket book."
 
expedience, expedients
expedience (ik SPEE dee uhns)
Characteristic of using what is opportune to achieve a goal or end often without regard to principles or ethics: "Given the rush to complete the railroad on time, the managers resorted to the expedience of using poor quality materials."
expedients (ik SPEE de uhns)
That which is advantageous or profitable for the moment without due regard for others or for principles of honor: "The criminal resorted to shady expedients in order to rob the banks."
 
expletive, explicative
expletive (EK spli tiv)
A word used to fill a space in a communication (written or verbal) that does not add meaning to the communication and is often considered crude or obscene: "The editor of the newspaper did not approve of the writers using expletives in their text."
explicative (EK spli kay" tiv, ik SPLIK uh tiv)
Providing a detailed and logical explanation: "The speaker provided an explicative introduction to his topic."
 
explicit, implicit
explicit (ik SPLIS it)
Clearly stated; plain to see; readily observable: "The directions for making the cake were explicit."
implicit (im PLIS it)
1. Suggested or to be understood though not plainly expressed; implied: "His commitment to his wife was implicit in all that he did."
2. Without reservation or doubt; unquestioning, absolute: "The children responded with implicit cooperation during the fire drill."
 
explosion, implosion
explosion (ik SPLOH zhuhn)
Characterized by a loud and noisy expression of emotion or to burst violently: "There was an explosion of tears and lamentations after the train crash."
"During the construction of the train tunnel, dynamite was used to create an explosion, loosening the rock."
implosion (im PLOH zhuhn)
To cause to collapse inwardly due to the change in internal air pressure: "The implosion and collapse of the building was carefully engineered by the specialists."
 
expose, exposé
expose (ik SPOHZ)
1. To leave something without a covering or protection: "When a strong wind blows the shingles off the roof, it will certainly expose the wood under them."
2. To cause someone to experience something or to be influenced or affected by something: "The teacher wanted to expose his students to the great works of literature."
3. To reveal something that is hidden, dishonest, or criminal: "The reporters were about to expose him as a fraud."
exposé (ek" spoh ZAY)
1. A news report or broadcast that reveals something illegal or dishonest to the public: "The newspaper was about to present an exposé of the candidate's financial corruption."
2. A book, newspaper report, magazine article, etc. making sensational disclosures: "The article in the newspaper had an exposé about the senator's illegal bribes."
 
expostulate, postulate
expostulate (ik SPAHS chuh layt")
To reason or to discuss earnestly, typically to point out an inappropriate behavior: "The parents attempted to expostulate with their children about the broken window."
postulate (PAHS chuh layt")
To assume that something is true: "The teacher stated he would postulate that the garden would do well if it rained frequently."
 
extant, extent
extant (EK stuhnt, ek STANT)
Currently existing: "Very few copies of the Gutenberg Bible are extant."
extent (ik STENT)
A range or distance over which something extends: "To what extent are we the product of our training and environment?"
 
extemporaneous, impromptu
extemporaneous (ik stem" puh RAY nee uhs)
1. Carried out or performed with little or no preparation: "The politician made an extemporaneous speech at the local college."
2. Prepared in advance but delivered without notes or text: "The newswoman presented an extemporaneous report about her recent experiences in China."
impromptu (im PROMP too, im PROMP tyoo)
1. Prompted by the occasion rather than being planned in advance: "When two of her former class mates dropped by unexpectedly, my sister had an impromptu little party."
2. Spoken, performed, done, or composed with little or no chance of preparation: "The teacher made an impromptu lecture about honor and responsibility."
 
extraneous, intrinsic
extraneous (ik STRAY nee uhs)
Not essential or not forming a necessary part of somethiing: "The balcony scene was extraneous to the meaning of the play."
"The reporter was able to speed up the process of completing her report by eliminating much of the extraneous comments made by some of the people."
intrinsic (in TRIN zik, in TRIN sik)
Essential to the nature of an object or idea: "The intrinsic nature of their friendship could not be described."
"Someone once said that creativity is intrinsic to human nature."
 
eyed, I'd
eyed (IGHD)
1. Having eyes of a specified number or kind; often used in combination: "She had a blue-eyed cat."
2. An attentive or focused glance or close observation: "The homeless man hungrily eyed the hamburgers being prepared in the open-air market.”
I'd (IGHD)
Contraction of I had or I would: "I'd rather go on vacation than to stay home; in fact, I'd leave right now if I could."
 
eyelet, islet
eyelet (IGH lit)
1. A small hole or perforation, usually rimmed with metal, cord, fabric, or leather; used for fastening with a cord or hook: "The eyelets on the coat were made of leather so they would not tear."
2. A small eye: "The new born kitten’s eyes were so small they could be described as eyelets."
islet (IGH lit)
A very small island: "My idea of a summer vacation is to spend it on an islet in a quiet lake."