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Tag Archives: Verbs
The difference between “affect” and “effect”
Generally speaking, the difference is this: “affect” is a verb meaning to have an influence on, to cause a change in something (often negative), “effect” is a noun meaning a result. So, for example: If an area is affected by flooding, … Continue reading
How to use the word “control”
“Control” can be either a noun or a verb. It is commonly misused in both instances. “Control” as a noun WRONG As the Branch is an organisational part of the Company, the public authorities may ask for these documents in … Continue reading
Is it OK to split infinitives?
One of the most famous examples of a split infinitive is in the introduction of the original Star Trek TV series: “to boldly go where no man has gone before”. The infinitive “to go” has been split by the addition … Continue reading
How to use “prevent”, “prohibit” and “ban”
WRONG The Lease does not provide for a period of time during which the Tenant is prevented to use the Premises. RIGHT The Lease does not provide for a period of time during which the Tenant is prevented from using … Continue reading
How to translate “sprecyzować”
“Sprecyzować” CANNOT be translated as “precise”. “Precise” is an adjective (przymiotnik), while “sprecyzować” is a verb (czasownik). Nonetheless, mistakes like the one below are very common: WRONG The agreement does not precise which of its terms survive its termination. I … Continue reading
When is it correct to use “to” plus –ing (part 2)
I said in the last post that when “to” acts as a preposition it is usually followed by an –ing form or a noun/noun phrase. Now we will look at exceptions to this rule. The most important exception relates to … Continue reading
When is it correct to use “to” plus –ing? (part 1)
WRONG I look forward to talk to you on Friday afternoon. RIGHT I look forward to talking to you on Friday afternoon. As the example above shows, sometimes it is correct to use “to” plus the –ing form of a … Continue reading
“Base on”, “based on”, “on the basis of” etc
These phrases seem to cause no end of trouble! Base on Mistakes with this arise from incorrectly translating the Polish verb opierać. Look at the example below: Klimatolodzy opierają się na symulacjach tworzonych na komputerach. You CANNOT translate this as: … Continue reading
How to use the word “consent”
In general, the word “consent” can be used in two different ways: (i) as an uncountable noun – this refers to the concept/idea of consent The management board must obtain prior written consent from the Shareholders’ Meeting in order to perform certain … Continue reading
How to use the word “consult”
The verb “consult” has three different meanings and accordingly behaves in three different ways. It is important to ensure your grammar and sentence structure match the meaning you intend. 1. “Consult” usually means “to seek advice or information”. It is … Continue reading
Common Mistakes in Business English 