Have you ever been confused using an English word whose writing and pronunciation was equal to or very similar to those we used in Spanish? It is a case that occurs many times when you immerse yourself in learning that language. These expressions are so-called false friends and are defined as those words that sound and are written in a similar way, but their meaning is totally different.
Take note so that you use the different concepts safely and accurately when you are communicating in the Anglo-Saxon language, either while on vacation or when taking an English course abroad.
20 false friends in English that you should learn
1. Actually
It seems to mean: Currently.
It really means: Really.
It is one of the English words that we can find most in some reading and even speech and that generates great confusion for its similarity in pronunciation and writing.
2. Sensitive
It seems to mean: Sensitive.
It really means: Sensible.
You can use it to refer to someone with acts of prudence, an example of that: the president was sensible in his speech.
3. Answer
It seems to mean: Answer.
It really means: Contest.
It’s useful when it comes to a test people take to determine a winner. One sample may be: Participant Two, won the competition Languages.
4. Casualty
It seems to mean: Chance.
It really means: Victim.
When someone suffers some harm caused by another person or dies, it is appropriate that you use that word. Example: the tourist was the victim of a robbery for not making himself understood in the proper language.
5. Carpet
It seems to mean: Folder.
It really means: Carpet.
Don’t forget that if someone makes a request for these, even if it’s from the office, it’s probably because they need a carpet to put on the floor.
6. Abstract
It seems to mean: Abstract.
It really means: Summary.
Remember this word when you return from your travels, as you can use it to shorten your experiences of this saying: “In short, it was extraordinary all the moments I lived as a tourist during the trip!”
7. Realise
It seems to mean: Perform.
It really means: Realizing it.
Upon learning of an event, its use is appropriate for accompanying the situation. An example of your employment would be: to realize the truth, you need to attend the forum.
8. Exit
It seems to mean: Success.
It really means: Get out.
Every time you leave your home it is an opportunity to use it; therefore, it records this word very well in your memory because it is a reflection of a constant action.
9. Eventually
It seems to mean: Eventually.
It really means: Finally.
Being one of the most used false friends in English it is important to keep it in mind so that you use it properly, especially at the moments that you approach the end of a note or speech because it is very possible that it will be revealed.
10. Facility
It seems to mean: Ease.
It really means: Facilities.
It’s not that popular, but for that reason it’s easier to misinterpret it and take communication another way. Therefore, keep it engraved so that you are always well installed.
11. Success
It seems to mean: Event.
It really means: Success.
Learn this word very well because the purpose of your life is always linked to the permanent search for it.
12. Career
It seems to mean: College career.
It really means: Career.
It’s to be careful. When you’re going to reveal your profession, keep in mind to use it properly, as being a college student you can imply a degree you don’t already have.
13. Library
It seems to mean: Bookstore.
It really means: Library.
Although it’s related to books, it can take you to a totally different place than you really should.
14. Lecture
It seems to mean: Reading.
It really means: Conference.
Show your understanding of English when you put it into practice by listening to a special topic in a public speech.
15. Large
It seems to mean: Long.
It really means: Big.
It is very common to find it in any text, so you need to remember it and interpret it in the right way.
16. Concrete
It seems to mean: Concrete.
It really means: Concrete.
It is not very common to use it because it is oriented to construction issues and the like, however, knowing its concept can save you from mistakes.
17. Compliment
It seems to mean: Add-on
It really means: Fulfilled
Try to reflect it at all times, as it says a lot about you and quite possibly this will help you always understand its representation.
18. Dessert
It seems to mean: Desert.
It really means: Dessert.
If you are at the hotel with this false friends in English, do not think that yourwhereabouts will be the desert; on the contrary, get ready for a delicious dessert.
19. Target
It seems to mean: Card.
It really means: Goal.
If you hear this word during the trip, take it easy! They just want to know the reason for your destiny.
20. Jubilation
It seems to mean: Retirement.
It really means: Swear.
Don’t be happy if they show it to you, maybe the emotional expression is for something else, since the job retreat may be well away.
You know these 20 words that are false friends.What if you encourage sign up for Ynsitu’s english courses
so you can learn more about this wonderful language? Surely, you won’t have any more confusion with any words.