The English language is one of the hardest to learn to write. That's because there are so many words that sound alike that have totally different meanings.

A lot of people make innocent mistakes in writingnot just typos where a finger slippedbut a spelling mistake that causes a word to have a different meaning than was intended.

Here are some words commonly misused and some tips to help you know how to use them correctly:

Then and than

The word "then" means not now; later or next. Example: Then, she moved her hand to the right side.

The word "than" implies either/or: Example: I'd rather be rich than poor.

Accept and except:

"Accept" means to approve. Example: If you want ezinearticles.com to accept your article, it must be well written.

"Except" means to omit or leave out. Example: All except the red ones go in this box.

Advice and advise:

"Advice" is a noun. Example: I need your advice on this topic.

"Advise" is a verb. Example: Please advise me on how to proceed.

Affect and effect:

"Affect" means to influence. Think of it as a verb. Example: Her criticism affects everyone in our group

"Effect" is a result or benefit of something done. Think of it as a noun. Example: What harmful effect does pollution have on nature? Common phrases with "effect" include: in effect, to that effect.

Breath and breathe:

"Breath" is a noun. It is the air we inhale and exhale. Example: His breath smells like garlic.

"Breathe" is a verb. It is what we do when we take in air. Example: It feels good to breathe deeply.

When a word has a letter "e" on the end, many times it makes the first vowel of the word a long vowel. Remembering this phonic rule, say the word before writing it to make sure you select the one you want.

Choose and chose:

"Choose" is a verb used to show present tense. Example: Please choose a color.

"Chose" is the past tense verb. Example: He chose the blue one.

Again say the word aloud before writing it. The long vowel in chose will naturally help you decide the correct spelling needed in your sentence.

Insure, assure and ensure:

"Insure" means to protect with a contract. Example: Please insure the boat for $50,000 on our homeowner's policy.

"Assure" means to promise or declare. Example: I assure you I am trying my best.

"Ensure" means to make safe or certain. Example: Proper exercise ensures good health.

Lay and lie:

These are two very commonly misused words.

"Lay" is a verb that

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