Dependent or dependant?

They sound and look similar, but their meanings are different, so how do you know which one to use?

A dependant (noun) is a person who depends on someone else for support.

Dependent (adjective) describes a person or thing depending on someone/something else or unable to function without the thing it depends on.

The difference between the a and the e is an important one.

However, in the US both the noun and adjective can be written with the a, so make sure you use the right version for the right audience.

Robert Zarywacz

For spelling, grammar and punctuation tips and advice on copywriting, editing and proofreading, please visit our z2zine blog regularly.

Practise or practice?

They sound the same and look similar, but their meanings are different, so how do you know which one to use?

To prastise (verb) is to do something habitually, such as practise playing the guitar, often to improve skill. It is also often used to describe professional work, such as practising law or dentistry.

Practice (noun) refers to an act itself, not who is doing it. Fire practice is the drill an organisation puts in place to test the evacuation of a building in the event of a fire. A practice can also refer to a business or building, such as a dental practice – a group of dentists who operate at a specific location. A practice manager is likely to look after all aspects of running the dental practice.

The difference between the s and the c is an important one.

However, in the US both the verb and noun are written with the c, so make sure you use the right version for the right audience.

Robert Zarywacz

For spelling, grammar and punctuation tips and advice on copywriting, editing and proofreading, please visit our www.z2z.biz blog regularly.

Principle or principal?

They sound the same and look similar, but their meanings are different, so how do you know which one to use?

A principle (noun) describes a fundamental truth, law or belief. It can also stand for a personal code of conduct, as in ‘a man of principle’. A principle can also describe a scientific, mechanical or other law or rule, such as the principle of nuclear fission.

Principal (adjective) describes something that is first in rank or importance. The principal members of the cast of a play are the main or leading actors. A principal (noun) describes the head of an institution, such as a school or college.

The difference between the ple and the pal ending is an important one.

Robert Zarywacz

For spelling, grammar and punctuation tips and advice on copywriting, editing and proofreading, please visit our www.z2z.biz blog regularly.