ToBE #14 : Same words, different meanings - Part 2

In continuation to ToBE #6, we shall discuss some similar sounding but different meaning words that are sometimes used interchangeably.

affect /effect : Note the first letter that differs.

Affect : To have an impact on. Eg.:-

• I did not know that the news would affect him badly.
• The interior parts of the state were not affected by the tsunami.

Effect : As a noun, 'effect' means 'result' or 'impact/influence'. Eg.:-

• See the effect of keeping the magnet near the pins.
• Too much TV can have a bad effect on eyesight.

Effect : As a verb, 'effect' means 'to cause' or 'to result in'. Eg.:-

• The parliamentary election results effected a change in the state government's style of functioning.
• Who would have expected an earthquake in Indonesia to effect so much damage in India?

sink/synch : Pronunciation is the same for both. Some people don't know the spelling of the latter word.

Sink : 'to drown' or 'a place to wash vessels'. Eg.:-

• A stone dropped in a well would sink immediately.
• Can you please keep the unwashed dishes in the sink?

Sync/Synch : Both spellings are correct. Short for 'synchronise(d)' or 'to be in tune/agreement with', sync/synch should not be used in formal communication.

• Are you in synch with me on this design strategy?

reminder/remainder : Please note the 'a' in the second word that makes it different from the first.

Reminder : That which brings back to the mind is reminder. Eg.:-

• I have to set a reminder to publish "ToBE #14" by 7 PM.

Remainder : That which remains is remainder. Eg.:-

• Subtract 4 from 7 and 3 is the remainder.