In conversation, we use some words interchangeably, as if they meant the same thing. But if synonyms meant exactly the same thing, we wouldn’t need different words, would we? If we understand the distinctions, we know which choice is best.
Negligent or Negligible
Negligent describes chronic ignoring or overlooking responsibilities. Negligible is something too insignificant to warrant any concern.
Because Jack was negligent in reporting the accident, he was fired. A two-cent difference in the cost for a gallon of gas is negligible.
Shall or Will
While these words are often understood as identical twins, shall has a stronger feeling of intent, with a sense of command, and will is more common in everyday speech, more casual and less formal.
I shall not lie, but I will probably shade the truth a bit. When in doubt, use the contraction: I think I’ll stay home.
These or Those
The difference is in how you see the condition.
These marbles are much closer to me than those marbles.
This or That
The difference is in how close the items are.
This hailstone, the one I’m holding in my hand, is larger than that one over there.
Think or Believe
Think refers to an idea or concept, our rational and objective evaluation of something that is possibly or probably true. Believe refers to what we hold as absolutely true.
We might think we can use these words interchangeably, but believing we can shows a deep conviction.
