Common Grammar Blunders

 

advice – opinion; e.g., "I gave the patient advice regarding her diet."

advise – to offer advice, counsel; e.g., "I advised the patient to resume her regular activities."

 

cite – to quote; "I cited Ernest Hemingway in my speech."

sight – ability to see; "The patient’s sight is diminished in the left eye."

site – location (n) or to locate (v); "The wound site is healing well."

 

discreet – showing prudence; e.g., "She was discreet when addressing Sally’s tardiness."

discrete – distinct; e.g., "I palpated no discrete masses."

 

elicit – to bring about or induce; e.g., "Forward bending did not elicit the patient’s back pain."

illicit – unlawful; e.g., "The patient denies use of illicit drugs."

 

it’s – contraction; e.g., "It’s really hot in here."

its – possessive; e.g., "I put the book back in its proper place."

 

loose – not restrained; e.g., "Her bowel movements have been loose in consistency."

lose – to mislay or not keep; e.g., "I’d love to lose 10 pounds before the reunion."

 

principal – highest in importance, chief; e.g., "The principal diagnosis is congestive heart failure."

principle – a rule or standard; "Dr. Smith is a man of principle."

 

subtle – slight, elusive; "I gave my husband subtle reminders about our anniversary."

supple – flexible; "The patient’s neck is supple."

 

than – used to introduce a second element or clause; e.g., "Sally has more cats than Bill."

then – at that time, next in order, besides; e.g., "She then will need an ultrasound of the gallbladder."

 

verses – a rhythmical composition, e.g., "The poem contained three verses."

versus – against; e.g., "Diagnosis is bronchitis versus pneumonia."

Back to Student Corner Home Page.