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Английские слова, которые мы путаем. Объяснения на русском, примеры, истории и практические задания
Английские слова, которые мы путаем
Объяснения на русском, примеры, истории и практические задания
Джуди Грэммер
© Джуди Грэммер, 2026
ISBN 978-5-0069-3644-7
Создано в интеллектуальной издательской системе Ridero
Предисловие
Дорогой читатель,
Эта книга создана для всех, кто хочет свободно ориентироваться в английской лексике и избегать распространённых ошибок. Часто одни и те же слова вызывают путаницу, хотя их значения и употребление могут быть разными.
Каждая глава посвящена паре или группе слов, которые легко спутать. В книге есть подробное объяснение значений и правил употребления, примеры предложений с переводом, истории для закрепления материала и упражнения для практики. Всё это помогает понять, как правильно использовать слова в разных ситуациях.
Цель книги – помочь уверенно выбирать слова, понимать их тонкости и применять естественно в речи и письме. Материал подходит для продолжающих (B1—B2) и полезен как для подготовки к экзаменам, так и для повседневного общения.
Пусть изучение английского станет увлекательным и эффективным!
Say or Tell?
Grammar Focus
Глаголы say и tell оба переводятся как «говорить», однако употребляются по-разному.
1. Основное различие
Say – делает акцент на содержании высказывания (что сказано).
Tell – делает акцент на получателе информации (кому сказано).
2. Грамматические конструкции
SAY
say + something
say + (that) + clause
say to somebody
После say прямое дополнение без предлога обычно не используется.
Examples:
She said she was tired.
– Она сказала, что устала.
He said that he didn’t understand the task.
– Он сказал, что не понял задание.
She said something interesting.
– Она сказала что-то интересное.
He said to me that he would call later.
– Он сказал мне, что позвонит позже.
TELL
tell somebody something
tell somebody (that) + clause
tell a story / the truth / a lie
tell somebody to do something
После tell обязательно указывается получатель информации.
Examples:
She told me the answer.
– Она сказала мне ответ.
He told us that the exam was difficult.
– Он сказал нам, что экзамен был сложным.
My teacher told a funny story.
– Мой учитель рассказал смешную историю.
Please tell me the truth.
– Пожалуйста, скажи мне правду.
She told us to open our books.
– Она сказала нам открыть учебники.
3. Полезные советы
Если в предложении есть ответ на вопрос «кому?», чаще используется tell.
Если важен сам текст сообщения, чаще используется say.
Конструкцию tell somebody to do something следует запоминать как устойчивую модель.
Выражения tell the truth, tell a lie, say hello, say goodbye лучше учить целиком.
Story
Last week our English teacher said that we would have a surprise speaking task. She did not say what the topic would be, so everyone felt nervous. Some students said it would be about school life, while others said it might be about future plans.
Before the lesson, my best friend told me that he had prepared a short story about his dream job. He told me his main ideas and asked for advice. I said that his idea was interesting and told him to speak more confidently.
When the lesson began, the teacher told us to choose a random card. My card said «An Important Decision». At first, I did not know what to say. Then I remembered a real situation from my life and decided to tell the class about it. I told them how I had to choose between sports and music school.
After my speech, the teacher said I had made good points. She told me to work on my pronunciation. Her feedback gave me confidence. Later, my friend said he felt proud of himself. He told me that regular practice helps to speak more clearly.
That day I understood that it is important not only to say something, but also to tell people your ideas clearly.
Useful Words and Expressions
surprise speaking task – неожиданное устное задание
topic – тема
feel nervous – чувствовать волнение
future plans – планы на будущее
dream job – работа мечты
main ideas – основные идеи
ask for advice – просить совета
speak confidently – говорить уверенно
random card – случайная карточка
at first – сначала
real situation – реальная ситуация
choose between – выбирать между
make good points – приводить веские аргументы
pronunciation – произношение
feedback – обратная связь
give confidence – придавать уверенность
regular practice – регулярная практика
clearly – ясно, чётко
Exercises
Exercise 1. Fill in the blanks (say or tell)
She ______ me the truth yesterday.
He ______ that he was tired.
Please ______ us what happened.
She ______ hello to everyone.
He ______ me to wait outside.
They ______ that the exam was easy.
My parents ______ me a story.
What did she ______ to you?
Exercise 2. Choose the correct answer
She (said / told) that she was busy.
He (said / told) me the news.
They (said / told) hello to the teacher.
She (said / told) us to open our books.
He (said / told) a lie.
I (said / told) that I agreed.
Exercise 3. Answer the questions (2—3 sentences)
Have you ever told someone an important secret? How did you feel?
What do teachers usually tell students before an exam?
When was the last time you said something you later regretted?
Who do you usually tell about your problems?
Why is it important to say your opinion clearly?
Answer Key
Exercise 1
told
said
tell
said
told
said
told
say
Exercise 2
said
told
said
told
told
said
Exercise 3 – Sample Answers
Yes, I once told my friend an important secret. I felt nervous at first, but later I felt relieved because I trusted that person.
Teachers usually tell students to stay calm and read the tasks carefully. They often tell them to manage their time wisely.
The last time I said something I regretted was during an argument. I spoke too quickly without thinking. Later I apologized.
I usually tell my close friend about my problems. I trust this person and value their advice.
It is important to say your opinion clearly because people cannot understand you otherwise. Clear communication helps to avoid misunderstandings.
Mini Memory Tips
Tell + someone + something
Say + something
Tell someone to do something – устойчивая модель
Запоминайте устойчивые выражения целиком.
Speak or Talk?
Grammar Focus
Глаголы speak и talk переводятся как «говорить», однако употребляются в разных ситуациях.
1. Основное различие
Speak – более формальное слово. Часто используется в официальных ситуациях, при упоминании языков или публичных выступлений.
Talk – менее формальное. Используется в повседневном общении и обозначает разговор как процесс.
2. Грамматические конструкции
SPEAK
speak + language
speak to/with somebody
speak about something
speak at a conference / meeting
Examples:
She speaks English and Spanish.
– Она говорит на английском и испанском.
I need to speak to the teacher.
– Мне нужно поговорить с учителем.
He spoke about his future plans.
– Он говорил о своих планах на будущее.
The student spoke at the school event.
– Ученик выступил на школьном мероприятии.
TALK
talk to/with somebody
talk about something
talk on the phone
talk for hours
Examples:
I talked to my friend after school.
– Я поговорил с другом после школы.
They talked about the exam.
– Они говорили об экзамене.
She was talking on the phone.
– Она разговаривала по телефону.
We talked for two hours.
– Мы разговаривали два часа.
3. Полезные советы
Для языков используется только speak.
В официальных ситуациях чаще употребляется speak.
В неформальной беседе чаще используется talk.
В большинстве случаев talk to и talk with взаимозаменяемы.
Story
Last month our school organized an international week. Several guests came to speak about their countries and cultures. One of them spoke English very clearly, even though it was not his first language. He also spoke about the importance of learning foreign languages in modern society.
Before the event, our teacher told us to prepare questions. She said we should not be afraid to speak in public. I was nervous because I do not usually speak in front of a large audience.
After the presentation, students started to talk to the guests in small groups. I talked with a student from another country about school life. We talked about exams, hobbies and future plans. At first, I was shy, but soon I felt more confident.
Later, I had a chance to speak to one of the speakers personally. We spoke about education and career opportunities. That conversation helped me understand how important it is not only to study a language, but also to speak it regularly.
By the end of the week, I realized that the more you talk to different people, the easier it becomes to speak confidently.
Useful Words and Expressions
international week – международная неделя
guest – гость
culture – культура
clearly – ясно
foreign language – иностранный язык
modern society – современное общество
prepare questions – подготовить вопросы
be afraid – бояться
in public – публично
audience – аудитория
small groups – небольшие группы
school life – школьная жизнь
future plans – планы на будущее
shy – застенчивый
confident – уверенный
career opportunities – карьерные возможности
regularly – регулярно
realize – осознавать
Exercises
Exercise 1. Fill in the blanks (speak or talk)
She can ______ three languages.
I need to ______ to you after class.
They were ______ about the test results.
He will ______ at the conference tomorrow.
We ______ for hours last night.
Please ______ more slowly.
She was ______ on the phone when I called.
I would like to ______ with the manager.
Exercise 2. Choose the correct answer
He can (speak / talk) French fluently.
They (spoke / talked) about their plans.
She will (speak / talk) at the meeting.
I need to (speak / talk) to the doctor.
We (spoke / talked) for a long time.
He was (speaking / talking) on the phone.
Exercise 3. Answer the questions (2—3 sentences)
Do you prefer to speak in front of a class or talk in small groups? Why?
How often do you speak English outside the classroom?
Who do you usually talk to about your problems?
Have you ever spoken at a school event? Describe your experience.
Why is it important to talk to people from different cultures?
Answer Key
Exercise 1
speak
speak
talking
speak
talked
speak
talking
speak
Exercise 2
speak
talked
speak
speak
talked
talking
Exercise 3 – Sample Answers
I prefer to talk in small groups because I feel more relaxed. It is easier for me to express my ideas in a smaller audience.
I speak English mostly during lessons. Sometimes I practice by watching videos and speaking aloud at home.
I usually talk to my close friends about my problems. I trust them and appreciate their support.
Yes, I once spoke at a school event. I felt nervous at first, but later I became more confident and proud of myself.
It is important to talk to people from different cultures because it broadens our horizons. Communication helps us understand different perspectives.
Mini Memory Tips
Speak a language.
Speak in formal situations.
Talk about everyday topics.
Talk emphasizes conversation as a process.
Make or Do?
Grammar Focus
Глаголы make и do часто переводятся как «делать», однако используются в разных ситуациях.
1. Основное различие
Make – используется, когда мы создаём, производим или получаем результат.
Do – используется, когда речь идёт о процессе, деятельности или выполнении задачи.
2. Грамматические конструкции
MAKE
make + object
make a decision / mistake / choice
make a plan
make progress
make somebody + adjective
make somebody do something
Examples:
She made a cake for her family.
– Она приготовила торт для семьи.
I made a decision to study harder.
– Я принял решение учиться усерднее.
He made a mistake in the test.
– Он сделал ошибку в тесте.
This music makes me happy.
– Эта музыка делает меня счастливым.
The teacher made us repeat the rule.
– Учитель заставил нас повторить правило.
DO
do homework
do housework
do a task
do exercises
do your best
do well / badly
Examples:
I did my homework in the evening.
– Я сделал домашнее задание вечером.
She does the housework every weekend.
– Она делает работу по дому каждые выходные.
He did his best at the competition.
– Он сделал всё возможное на соревновании.
We are doing an exercise now.
– Мы сейчас выполняем упражнение.
3. Полезные советы
Если есть конкретный результат или созданный объект – чаще используется make.
Если речь идёт о процессе или обязанности – чаще используется do.
Некоторые выражения нужно запоминать как устойчивые: make a mistake, make a decision, do homework, do your best.
Story
Last Saturday I had many things to do. First, I needed to do my homework because I had several important tasks for Monday. I tried to do everything carefully and not make any mistakes. After finishing my homework, I decided to make a plan for the next week.
My parents asked me to do some housework. I had to do the washing up and do the cleaning in my room. It was not very exciting, but I understood that it was my responsibility. When I finished, I felt proud because I had done my best.
In the afternoon, I wanted to make something creative. I decided to make a short video for a school project. It took me two hours to make it, but I was satisfied with the result. The project made me more confident because I learned how to organize my time better.
By the end of the day, I realized that it is important not only to do daily tasks, but also to make plans and set goals. When you do your duties and make good decisions, you feel more organized and successful.
Useful Words and Expressions
have many things to do – иметь много дел
important task – важное задание
make a mistake – сделать ошибку
make a plan – составить план
do housework – делать работу по дому
do the washing up – мыть посуду
do the cleaning – убираться
responsibility – ответственность
do your best – сделать всё возможное
feel proud – чувствовать гордость
creative – творческий
school project – школьный проект
be satisfied with – быть довольным
result – результат
organize time – организовывать время
set goals – ставить цели
daily tasks – повседневные дела
successful – успешный
Exercises
Exercise 1. Fill in the blanks (make or do)
She ______ a mistake in her essay.
I need to ______ my homework tonight.
They ______ a decision together.
He always ______ his best in class.
We are going to ______ a cake.
She ______ the cleaning every Saturday.
I want to ______ progress in English.
Please ______ this exercise carefully.
Exercise 2. Choose the correct answer
He (made / did) a mistake.
She (made / did) her homework.
They (made / did) a plan.
I (made / did) my best.
We (made / did) the washing up.
She (made / did) great progress.
Exercise 3. Answer the questions (2—3 sentences)
What household tasks do you usually do at home?
Have you ever made an important decision recently? What was it?
How do you make plans for your school week?
What helps you do your homework effectively?
Why is it important to make goals for the future?
Answer Key
Exercise 1
made
do
made
does
make
does
make
do
Exercise 2
made
did
made
did
did
made
Exercise 3 – Sample Answers
I usually do the cleaning and do the washing up at home. These tasks help me develop responsibility and independence.
Yes, I recently made a decision to focus more on my studies. I understood that it was necessary for my future goals.
I usually make a weekly plan in my notebook. It helps me organize my time and avoid stress.
A quiet place and a clear plan help me do my homework effectively. I also try to avoid distractions.
It is important to make goals because they give direction to our actions. Clear goals help us stay motivated and organized.
Mini Memory Tips
Make = создать результат.
Do = выполнить действие.
Запоминайте устойчивые выражения как готовые блоки.
Проверяйте: есть ли конкретный результат?
Take or Bring? Understanding the Difference
Grammar Focus
Глаголы take и bring оба связаны с перемещением предметов или людей, но отличаются направлением движения.
1. Основное различие
Take – движение от говорящего или из одного места в другое.
Bring – движение к говорящему или к месту, где находится собеседник.
Проще запомнить так:
take – «унести, отвезти»
bring – «принести, привезти»
2. Грамматические конструкции
TAKE
take something somewhere
take somebody somewhere
take to school / work / home
take part in
take photos
Examples:
I will take my book to school tomorrow.
– Я возьму (отнесу) книгу в школу завтра.
She took her little brother to the park.
– Она отвела младшего брата в парк.
Please take this letter to the office.
– Пожалуйста, отнеси это письмо в офис.
He takes part in many competitions.
– Он принимает участие во многих соревнованиях.
BRING
bring something (to somebody)
bring somebody something
bring to school / home
bring back
Examples:
Can you bring me my notebook?
– Можешь принести мне мою тетрадь?
She brought some snacks to the party.
– Она принесла закуски на вечеринку.
Please bring your homework tomorrow.
– Пожалуйста, принесите домашнее задание завтра.
He brought back souvenirs from his trip.
– Он привёз сувениры из поездки.
3. Полезные советы
Спросите себя: движение к говорящему или от него?
Если предмет движется к месту, где вы находитесь, чаще используется bring.
Если предмет уносится в другое место – чаще используется take.
Устойчивые выражения (take part in, bring back) нужно запоминать целиком.
Story
Last Friday our class decided to organize a small school fair. The teacher told us to bring different things from home. Some students brought handmade decorations, while others brought homemade cakes and drinks.
I decided to take part in the organization of the event. My task was to take the tables from the classroom to the school hall. It was hard work, but my friends helped me. Later, my mother asked me to bring some paper plates from home. I promised to bring them early in the morning.
On the day of the fair, many students took photos and brought their friends to see the event. One of my classmates forgot to bring his project, so his parents had to bring it later.
After the fair, we had to take everything back to the classrooms. We took the decorations down and brought the remaining food to the teachers’ room. The event brought us closer as a class because we worked together.
That day I understood that when everyone brings something useful and takes responsibility, any project can become successful.
Useful Words and Expressions
organize a fair – организовать ярмарку
school hall – актовый зал
handmade decorations – украшения ручной работы
homemade cakes – домашние торты
take part in – принимать участие в
organization – организация
task – задание
hard work – тяжёлая работа
promise – обещать
early in the morning – рано утром
forget – забывать
project – проект
take back – унести обратно
bring back – принести/привезти обратно
work together – работать вместе
take responsibility – брать ответственность
successful – успешный
Exercises
Exercise 1. Fill in the blanks (take or bring)
Please ______ your notebook tomorrow.
I will ______ this book to the library.
Can you ______ me some water?
She ______ her sister to school every day.
He forgot to ______ his project.
We need to ______ these boxes back.
I want to ______ part in the competition.
They ______ souvenirs from their trip.
Exercise 2. Choose the correct answer
Please (take / bring) me your homework.
I will (take / bring) this letter to the office.
She (took / brought) her friend to the party.
Can you (take / bring) some snacks?
He (took / brought) part in the олимпиаде.
They (took / brought) the chairs to the hall.
Exercise 3. Answer the questions (2—3 sentences)
What do you usually bring to school every day?
Have you ever taken part in a school event? Describe it.
Who usually takes you to school?
Have you ever forgotten to bring something important? What happened?
Why is it important to take responsibility in group projects?
