adjective

The dependent dependant

by

Dependent or dependant?

They sound and look similar, but their meanings are different, so how do you know which one to use?

A dependant (noun) is a person who depends on someone else for support.

Dependent (adjective) describes a person or thing depending on someone/something else or unable to function without the thing it depends on.

The difference between the a and the e is an important one.

However, in the US both the noun and adjective can be written with the a, so make sure you use the right version for the right audience.

Robert Zarywacz

For spelling, grammar and punctuation tips and advice on copywriting, editing and proofreading, please visit our z2zine blog regularly.

What’s in a compliment?

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Compliment or complement?

They sound the same and look similar, but their meanings are different, so how do you know which one to use?

A compliment is an expression of praise. When you compliment someone, you praise them. When you are being complimentary about something, you are praising it. Complimentary can also mean a gift given free of charge, such as complimentary theatre tickets.

A complement is something which completes or balances something else, e.g. a full complement of crew for a ship. When one thing complements another, it completes or balances it, e.g. a salt cellar complements a pepper pot. Two things which are complementary balance each other or complete a set.

The difference between the e and the i is an important one.

Robert Zarywacz

For spelling, grammar and punctuation tips and advice on copywriting, editing and proofreading, please visit our z2zine blog regularly.

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