ClearTips: Edit yourself

What else to watch: Watch seeming synonyms

There are two opposing tendencies in American usage. One is to attach one meaning to many words, making them synonyms. The other is to reserve one meaning for one word, another for another, keeping them distinct. The first tendency is a lapse into sloth, the second a desire for precision.

among [three or more]
COMPARE
between [two or two at a time]
contemptible [deserving scorn]
COMPARE
contemptuous [scornful]
imply [suggest]
COMPARE
infer [conclude]

masterful
[strong-willed]

COMPARE
imasterly [skillful]

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