Confusing Words and Advanced Vocabulary in the English Language

By Sergio Casado Rodríguez

This ebook is intended for English learners who are hoping to reach an advanced level of the language. It includes explanations of the differences between easily confused words and lists of vocabulary and expressions with respective examples.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sergio
• Release date: Aug 16, 2018
• ISBN: 9781547544905

Book preview

Introduction

This book is divided into two parts. In the first, we’re going to learn some groups of words that easily confuse us because of subtle differences in their meaning, grammatical function or spelling. In the second part, we’ll look at advanced vocabulary and expressions in the English language. We will cover useful terms for those interested in taking an English exam like the TOEFL, TOEIC, or the Cambridge Exams, or for those with very advanced levels of English to help perfect their vocabulary. At the end of the book, I have included some articles about the English language.

I have tried to create a book with useful content explained in a quick and easy way, although describing the usage of words is no easy task. I hope that you find it entertaining and that it can be of use to you.

Confusing Words in the English Language

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Difference Between Bring, Take, Carry, and Fetch

We’re going to look at four words whose meanings can sometimes lead us to make mistakes. Let’s not forget that we must understand the meaning of the word in the language we are studying instead of our own, as translation can lead to confusion. Let’s take a look.

We can translate bring as traer, although it could also be translated as llevar in some instances. Bring creates the impression that the object we are talking about is moving towards the speaker.

Could you bring me the newspaper?

¿Podrías traerme el periódico?

Shall I bring a bottle of wine to the party?

¿Debería llevar una botella de vino a la fiesta?

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Take can be translated as llevar. It implies that something is moving away from the speaker and usually indicates where it is moving.

I will take you home.

Te llevaré a casa.

Could you take it with you there?

¿Podrías llevártelo allí?

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Carry implies that some object, usually heavy, is being moved either physically or in some kind of vehicle. It can be translated as acarrear, transportar, cargar, or llevar depending on the context.

He carried the TV on his own.

Cargó la televisión él solo.

Mike is carrying all of the furniture on his pick-up truck.

Mike está transportando todos los muebles en su ranchera.

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Fetch can be translated as buscar or traer. It means that someone has gone to look for something that they will bring back with them.

Can you fetch my book?

¿Puedes ir a buscar mi libro?

Thank you for fetching my backpack.

Gracias por traer (o por haber ido a buscar)