What exactly is the difference between respectable and respectful, childish and childlike? These words might sound similar but they have different meanings. In this lesson we will take a look at some commonly misused words.

Incorrect: There is no alternate; he must go to jail.

Correct: There is no alternative; he must go to jail.

Alternate means ‘every second’. It cannot be used in this sentence. Alternative is similar to ‘the other option’.

Incorrect: He lectures on alternative days.

Correct: He lectures on alternate days.

Incorrect: I like the childish simplicity of his character.

Correct: I like the childlike simplicity of his character.

Childish means silly or annoying. It does not mean the same as childlike.

Incorrect: I am the righteous owner of this estate.

Correct: I am the rightful owner of this estate.

Righteous means ‘virtuous’, ‘morally good or correct’. Rightful means ‘legally accepted as right or correct’.

Incorrect: That man has sent a respectable letter to me.

Correct: That man has sent a respectful letter to me.

The word respectable is wrongly used. If a person is respectable, then he / she accepts the moral or social standards of the society. Respectful means feeling or showing respect.

Incorrect: Monday follows Tuesday.

Correct: Tuesday follows Monday.

In this structure ‘follows’ means ‘comes after’.

Incorrect: I am sure that my confidant will not get shaken.

Correct: I am sure that my confidence will not get shaken.

The word confidant is incorrectly used in this sentence. Confidant means ‘someone you trust’. Confidence is your belief in your own abilities.