Misused Word
Misused words occur in many shapes and sizes. Often students substitute a word that sounds like the word they want to use, but they are a little bit off.
Example:
There is no dissemination between right and wrong.
Correct: There is no discrimination between right and wrong.
Sometimes the misusage involves a word that sounds exactly like another word (a homonym), but the wrong form is used. A good example of this is the difference between "effect" and "affect."
"effect" is usually the noun form. It is the result of a cause.
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"affect" is usually the verb form. It is used to illustrate the notion of one item acting on another.
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However, there are two exceptions to this rule.
1)"Affect" can be used as a noun if it is describing a particular inflection used by a person.
Example:
The minister speaks with a flat affect.
2) "Effect" can be used as a verb when it indicates the act of bringing about a result.
Example:
Obesity in America has effected a change in the way spandex manufacturers test their products.
then vs. than
Of course, remember that the best way to prevent misusage is to always look up a word before you use it. you should be able to determine if the meaning is one you intend if you use a good dictionary.