Words are powerful tools — they shape how we express ourselves, connect with others, and make an impression. But even the most common words can trip us up if we don’t use them correctly. Sometimes, we think we know what a word means, but it turns out we’re actually using it wrong! This can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, or even unintentionally changing the meaning of our message.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 everyday words that many people misuse — often without even realizing it. Learning the correct usage will help you communicate more clearly, sound more confident, and avoid embarrassing slip-ups. Whether you’re writing an essay, chatting with friends, or posting on social media, mastering these words will take your language skills to the next level.
- Literally
Wrong use: “I literally died laughing.”
Right use: “Literally” means something actually happened, not exaggeration. Use it when something is true without exaggeration.
- Ironic
Wrong use: “It’s ironic that I forgot my umbrella on a sunny day.”
Right use: Irony is when the opposite of what you expect happens, often in a surprising or meaningful way.
- Unique
Wrong use: “That’s a very unique dress.”
Right use: Unique means one of a kind — something can’t be “very unique,” it either is or isn’t.
- Affect vs. Effect
Wrong use: “The weather effected my mood.”
Right use: “Affect” is a verb (to influence); “effect” is a noun (the result of a change).
- Compliment vs. Complement
Wrong use: “Your tie compliments your shirt.”
Right use: “Compliment” means praise; “complement” means something that completes or goes well with something else.
- Irregardless
Wrong use: “Irregardless of the weather…”
Right use: “Irregardless” is nonstandard. Use “regardless” instead.
- Disinterested vs. Uninterested
Wrong use: “I’m disinterested in the game.”
Right use: “Disinterested” means impartial; “uninterested” means not interested.
- Bemused
Wrong use: “I was bemused by the movie.” (Meaning amused)
Right use: “Bemused” means confused or puzzled.
- Farther vs. Further
Wrong use: “Let’s discuss this further.” (Meaning physical distance)
Right use: “Farther” refers to physical distance; “further” is more abstract, meaning additional or more.
- Peruse
Wrong use: “I perused the book quickly.” (Meaning skimmed)
Right use: “Peruse” means to read carefully and thoroughly.
