Problem Pairs

English if full of pitfalls – words that sound similar, but mean something quite different. Here are some of the more common “problem pairs,” and their correct usage.

Advise, Advice

I advise you to take care.

My advice is, be careful.

Advise is a verb ­­–it describes something you suggest. Advice is a noun – it describes a suggestion.

Practise, Practice

He never practises what he preaches.

The idea seemed good but, in practice, it was a disaster.

Practise is a verb ­- to do something regularly in order to become skilled.

Practice is a noun- means action rather than thoughts.

Affect, Effect

The team’s performance was affected by rain.

The present system of payment will remain in effect.

Affect is a verb meaning, to change or influence.

Effect is a noun meaning result or outcome.

Effect can be used as a verb, meaning to bring about; (and affect can also be a noun meaning emotion or feeling, but this use is specialized and rare in everyday speech).

Aggravate, Irritate

Attempts to restrict parking have further aggravated the problem of traffic congestion.

After a while, the noise began to visibly irritate him.

Aggravate means to make an already troublesome matter or condition, worse.
Irritate means to make it troublesome in the first place. You have to irritate someone before you can aggravate their irritation.