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Use the Right Vocabulary
It is important that you use the right vocabulary in your writing. The mistakes that occur regularly in nonnative speakers are usually due to confusion between two words such as:
△ Alternatively and Alternately: The former is preferred to the later (unless you really mean something that alternates).
△ Whereas and While: Use the word “whereas” instead of “while” (unless you are referring to simultaneous events).
△ Question and Problem: Do not use the word “question” as a euphemism for “problem.” A question is what you ask and hope to get an answer from others. A problem is a difficulty that needs attention and thought and you want to seek a solution.
△ Less and Fewer: Less means a smaller amount: there is less water than before. Fewer means a smaller number: there are fewer people than before.
△ Imply and Infer: Use “imply” when something is being suggested without being explicitly stated and “infer” when someone is trying to arrive at a conclusion based on evidence. “Imply” is more assertive, active.
△ i.e. and e.g.: The abbreviation “i.e.,” means “that is,” and the abbreviation “e.g.,” means “for example” (these abbreviations are not italicized).
