Page:A Desk-Book of Errors in English.djvu/22

adjective aggravate adjective and adverb: In selecting the correct word to use, bear in mind that where a phrase denoting manner can be substituted an adverb is required; where some tense of the verb to be can be used the adjective is necessary; as, "The surgeon felt the limb carefully and found that one of the bones was broken.

admission. Compare.

admit, admit of: Very different in meaning. "This gate admits (affords entrance) to the grounds, but the size of the vehicle will not admit of (allow or permit) its passing through." Where Emerson says "Every action admits of being outdone," the simple admit could not be substituted.

admittance, admission: These words are not merely synonymous. Admittance refers to place, admission refers also to position, privilege, favor, friendship, etc. An intruder may gain admittance to the hall of a society who would not be allowed admission to its membership.

adore: Often misused as an emphatic for "like." One may adore that which one reveres or venerates or has profound regard or affection for, but not that which is pleasant to the palate. A child may like cherries and adore its mother, but it does not adore cherries though it likes its mother.

advantage, benefit: Exercise care in using these words. Advantage is that which gives one a vantage