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Definitions from the Web

Paronyms

Description:

Paronyms are words that are spelled similarly or sound alike but have different meanings. They often lead to confusion in writing or speaking due to their close resemblance. Paronyms are important to distinguish as their subtle differences can greatly alter the intended message.

Examples:

Noun:

1. One example of paronyms is "accept" and "except". Although they are spelled similarly, "accept" means to receive something, while "except" means to exclude.
2. Another instance of paronyms is "affect" and "effect". While "affect" is a verb meaning to influence, "effect" is usually used as a noun to indicate a result or consequence.

Adjective:

1. The paronymous words "practical" and "practicable" are often confused. "Practical" refers to something that is efficient or useful, whereas "practicable" means something that is feasible or able to be done.
2. Another set of paronyms is "eminent" and "imminent". "Eminent" implies someone or something that is famous or highly regarded, while "imminent" suggests something that is about to happen soon.

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