1. farther / further – “Farther” refers to physical distance, however, “further” refers to distance in the figurative or metaphorical sense or something that is additional. Grammar Girl suggests you remember the “far” in “farther” and use that to equate the word with physical distance.
Examples:
- “We couldn’t drive farther than a mile before our car overheated.”
- “I decided I didn’t want the relationship to go any further.”
2. fewer / less – The Oxford English Dictionary reminds us that “fewer” should be used to refer to people or things in the plural form and that “less” should be used when something can’t be counted or doesn’t have a plural. “Less” is also used with numbers when they are on their own or with expressions of measurement or time.
Examples:
- “My beloved lilac tree produced fewer flowers last year.”
- “I noticed that I’ve used less fuel to heat my house this winter.”
3. healthy / healthful – Both can mean “conducive to good health.” “Healthful” is considered an old, archaic form of “healthy,” but it has been making a comeback. “Healthy” can generally refer to good health. “Healthful” can describe something that will create good health.
Examples:
- “I look forward to eating a healthful salad for lunch.”
- “After a long bout with mono, I’m glad to be healthy again.”
4. toward / towards – forward / forwards – downward / downwards – upward / upwards – backward / backwards – In American English, the singular form of these words is considered correct or preferred, but both can be right. According to such style guides as The Chicago Manual of Style and The Associated Press Style Guide, the singular form is correct. Whichever form you decide to use, it’s best to stay consistent in your usage.
Examples:
- “Our tent was located toward the left of the willow tree.”
- “He expects to be ready for breakfast towards eight o’ clock.”
5. in regard to / in regards to – “In regard to” is the correct form; “in regards to” can be confused with “as regards.” Both phrases are a form of businessese that are best to avoid entirely.
Quotes
“How often misused words generate misleading thoughts.” ~ Herbert Spencer
Comments? Suggestions? Need help? Feel free to contact me.
Michelle Troutman
classywriting.com
