Page:A Desk-Book of Errors in English.djvu/132

indict intend indict, indite: Although the pronunciation of these words is identical their meanings, in modern practise, differ materially. Both words are from the Latin in + dico, say. The first means to prefer an indictment (or formal written charge of crime) against. The second means "to put into words in writing" but it does not carry with it, the legal signification of the preceding.

induction. Compare.

inferior: In constant and approved use in such expressions as "an inferior man," "goods of an inferior sort"; corresponding to such expressions as "a superior man," "materials of superior quality"—all of which may be regarded as elliptical forms of speech. In reply to Dean Alford's challenge of this usage (Queen's English ¶ 214, p. 82), it is enough to say that life would be too short to admit of all such ellipses, being supplied, even if such supply would not make speech too prolix for common use.

inform. Compare.

ingenious, ingenuous: Words sometimes used erroneously. Ingenious characterizes persons possessed of cleverness or ability; ready, skilful, prompt, or apt to contrive. Ingenuous means free from guile; candid; open; frank.

in, into: Discriminate carefully between these words. In denotes position, state, etc.; into, tendency, direction, destination, etc.