Английские слова, которые вы больше не будете путать

Томас Спикс

Английские слова, которые вы больше не будете путать

Дорогие читатели,

Эта книга создана для всех, кто хочет разобраться в английской лексике, перестать путать похожие слова и выражения и начать использовать язык уверенно. Она подходит не только тем, кто готовится к экзаменам, но и каждому, кто хочет улучшить речь, письмо и понимание английского в повседневной жизни.

Суть книги проста: я собрал слова и выражения, которые чаще всего вызывают трудности, и показал, в чём их разница, как их использовать и в каких ситуациях они звучат естественно. Каждая глава построена одинаково: сначала даётся краткое объяснение слов с переводом и примерами, а затем серия личных вопросов с примерными ответами.

Личные вопросы помогают не просто запомнить слова, а использовать их на практике. Когда вы отвечаете на вопросы своими словами, вы закрепляете новые знания, учитесь формулировать мысли на английском и тренируете естественное употребление слов.

Вот как лучше работать с книгой:

Чтение и понимание – внимательно изучите объяснения слов и примеры. Проговаривайте их вслух, чтобы закрепить произношение и интонацию.

Практика с личными вопросами – отвечайте на вопросы развернуто, как если бы это был реальный разговор. Используйте новые слова в своих ответах.

Повторение и закрепление – возвращайтесь к главам через несколько дней и пытайтесь повторить ответы без подсказок. Постепенно слова перестанут путаться, а речь станет естественной.

Применение в жизни – используйте слова и выражения в письме, переписке и разговорах. Чем чаще вы их применяете, тем быстрее они станут частью вашего активного словаря.

Моя цель – чтобы после каждой главы вы могли сказать себе: «Теперь я понимаю эти слова и могу их использовать».

Желаю успехов!

Affect / Effect

affect – влиять, оказывать влияние на что-либо

The new schedule can affect students’ performance. – Новый график может влиять на успеваемость студентов.

effect – эффект, результат

The new schedule had a positive effect on students’ performance. – Новый график оказал положительный эффект на успеваемость студентов.

Personal Questions

1. How does social media affect your daily life?

Social media affects my daily life because I sometimes spend too much time online. It can motivate me, but also distract me from studying.

2. Can weather affect your mood? How?

Yes, weather can affect my mood. Sunny days make me feel energetic, while rainy days often make me feel tired.

3. What effect does music have on people?

Music can have a strong effect on people. It can calm them, make them happy, or motivate them to work.

4. How do advertisements affect your choices?

Advertisements affect my choices because I sometimes buy products I didn’t plan to. They can make me think I really need something.

5. What effect can learning a new language have on your life?

Learning a new language can have a positive effect on my life. It helps me communicate with more people and opens opportunities.

6. How do parents’ opinions affect teenagers?

Parents’ opinions can affect teenagers in many ways. Teenagers may follow their advice, but sometimes they want to make their own decisions.

7. How does stress affect your performance at school or work?

Stress affects my performance because when I am too stressed, I find it hard to concentrate. On the other hand, a little stress can motivate me to work harder.

8. What effect does exercise have on your mood and energy?

Exercise has a positive effect on my mood and energy. After running or doing sports, I feel more active and less tired.

9. How do friends affect your choices?

Friends can affect my choices because I often ask their opinion before making decisions. Sometimes their advice helps me avoid mistakes.

10. What effect does reading books have on people?

Reading books has a strong effect on people. It can expand knowledge, improve vocabulary, and develop imagination.

11. How does watching the news affect your feelings about the world?

Watching the news affects my feelings because sometimes it makes me worried or anxious. But it also helps me stay informed about important events.

12. What effect does volunteering or helping others have on a person?

Volunteering has a positive effect on a person. It makes them feel useful, teaches responsibility, and improves communication skills.

13. How can criticism affect your self-confidence?

Criticism can affect my self-confidence. Constructive criticism helps me improve, but harsh words can make me doubt myself.

14. What effect does travel have on people?

Travel has a wonderful effect on people. It broadens their horizons, teaches them about new cultures, and gives unforgettable experiences.

15. How does learning from mistakes affect your future decisions?

Learning from mistakes affects my future decisions by helping me avoid repeating errors. It makes me more careful and thoughtful.

Borrow / Lend

borrow – занимать у кого-то, брать во временное пользование

Can I borrow your pen? – Можно взять у тебя ручку?

lend – давать кому-то во временное пользование

I can lend you my pen. – Я могу дать тебе свою ручку.

Personal Questions

1. Have you ever borrowed something from a friend? What was it?

Yes, I once borrowed a book from my friend. I returned it after I finished reading it.

2. Do you often lend your things to others? Why or why not?

I sometimes lend my things to close friends. I trust them, but I don’t lend valuable items to everyone.

3. How does it feel when someone borrows your belongings?

It feels good if they take care of my things. But I get a little worried if they are careless.

4. Would you borrow money from a friend? Under what circumstances?

I would borrow money only in urgent situations. I always try to return it as soon as possible.

5. Have you ever lent money to someone? How did it go?

Yes, I once lent money to a friend. They returned it after a week, so everything was fine.

6. How do you decide whether to lend something to someone?

I think about how well I know the person and how careful they are. I avoid lending to people I don’t trust.

7. Do you prefer borrowing or lending? Why?

I prefer borrowing because I often need things temporarily. But I also lend things if I can help someone.

8. How do you feel if someone forgets to return what they borrowed?

I feel a little annoyed if they forget. I usually remind them politely.

9. Have you ever borrowed a book or movie from a library or friend?

Yes, I often borrow books from the library. It helps me save money and read more.

10. How do you make sure borrowed items are returned in good condition?

I explain how to use them carefully and ask for them back in time. I also choose responsible people to lend things to.

11. What effect can lending or borrowing have on friendships?

It can strengthen friendships if both parties are responsible. But problems may appear if someone is careless or forgetful.

12. Do you think it’s easier to borrow or lend money? Why?

It’s usually easier to borrow small amounts from friends. Lending money can be risky if you are not sure it will be returned.

13. Have you ever borrowed something and lost it? What happened?

Yes, I once borrowed a pen and lost it. I apologized and replaced it with a new one.

14. How often do you lend clothes, books, or gadgets to others?

I sometimes lend clothes or books to my close friends. I avoid lending gadgets because they are expensive.

15. How can borrowing and lending teach responsibility?

Borrowing and lending teach responsibility because you need to take care of things and return them on time. It helps develop trust between people.

Bring / Take

bring – приносить, привозить что-то к говорящему или к месту, о котором идёт речь

Please bring your homework to class tomorrow. – Пожалуйста, принеси своё домашнее задание в класс завтра.

take – брать, уносить, отвозить что-то от говорящего или от места, о котором идёт речь

Don’t forget to take your bag with you. – Не забудь взять с собой сумку.

Personal Questions

1. When was the last time you brought something to a friend or relative?

Last week I brought my friend a book she wanted to read. She was very happy to receive it.

2. Have you ever taken something somewhere by mistake? What happened?

Yes, I once took my sister’s notebook by mistake. I returned it as soon as I realized.

3. Do you prefer to bring gifts when visiting someone? Why?

Yes, I like to bring small gifts. It shows that I care about the person.

4. How do you decide whether to take or bring something when traveling?

I take things that I will need during the trip and bring things if I’m going to visit someone.

5. Have you ever forgotten to bring or take something important?

Yes, I once forgot to bring my ID to school. I had to go back home to get it.

6. How do you feel when someone brings you something unexpectedly?

I feel happy and appreciated. It’s always nice to receive a small surprise.

7. Do you often take things from home to work or school? What kind?

Yes, I usually take my laptop, books, and lunch. It helps me be prepared for the day.

8. How do you make sure you bring everything you need when leaving home?

I usually make a list or pack things the night before. It helps me avoid forgetting anything.

9. Have you ever brought something to help a friend or family member?

Yes, I brought my friend some notes when she missed class. She was very grateful.

10. What effect does bringing or taking gifts have on relationships?

Bringing or taking gifts can strengthen relationships. It shows that you think about the other person.

11. Have you ever taken a package or item to the wrong place? How did you fix it?

Yes, once I took a package to the wrong office. I apologized and delivered it to the correct place.

12. Do you prefer to bring or take food to parties? Why?

I prefer to bring food because it’s easier to share with others. It also makes me feel involved in the celebration.

13. How do you feel if someone forgets to bring or take something important?

I feel a little annoyed if it causes problems. But usually, I try to help them solve it.

14. Have you ever brought a pet or animal somewhere? How did it go?

Yes, I once brought my dog to a friend’s house. He behaved well, and everyone enjoyed playing with him.

15. How can paying attention to bring/take make your English more correct?

Using bring and take correctly makes my English clearer. People understand exactly where the action is happening.

Say / Tell

say – говорить, произносить слова (обычно без указания адресата)

She said that she was tired. – Она сказала, что устала.

tell – рассказывать, сообщать кому-то что-то (обязательно указываем, кому)

He told me a secret. – Он рассказал мне секрет.

Personal Questions

1. Who do you usually say your ideas to?

I usually say my ideas to my classmates or teacher. They often give me helpful feedback.

2. Have you ever told someone an important secret? What happened?

Yes, I told my best friend a secret about my family. She promised not to tell anyone, and she didn’t.

3. Do you prefer to say your thoughts out loud or write them down? Why?

I prefer to say my thoughts out loud because it’s faster. Writing helps me organize them better.

4. How do you feel when someone tells you bad news?

I feel sad and worried. But I try to stay calm and think about what to do next.

5. Have you ever said something by mistake that you didn’t mean?

Yes, sometimes I say things too quickly. I apologize when I realize my mistake.

6. Who usually tells you important information?

My parents and teachers usually tell me important information. I also get updates from friends.

7. How do you make sure you say the right thing in a conversation?

I think before I speak and try to choose my words carefully. It helps avoid misunderstandings.

8. Have you ever told a joke that made people laugh?

Yes, I often tell jokes to my friends. They usually enjoy it, and it makes the atmosphere fun.

9. Do you prefer to say things directly or hint at them? Why?

I prefer to say things directly because it’s clearer. Hinting can confuse people.

10. How do you feel if someone says something rude to you?

I feel upset if someone says something rude. I try to respond politely or ignore it.

11. Have you ever told someone about your plans? What were they?

Yes, I told my friend about my plans to visit another city. She gave me useful advice for the trip.

12. What effect does saying positive things have on people?

Saying positive things can cheer people up and make them feel appreciated. It improves relationships.

13. Do you find it easier to say something in your native language or in English? Why?

It’s easier in my native language because I know the words better. In English, I sometimes need time to find the right words.

14. How often do you tell your friends about your day?

I usually tell my friends about my day in the evening. We enjoy sharing our experiences.

15. How can practicing say/tell help your English?

Practicing say and tell helps me speak more naturally. People understand me better when I use them correctly.

Do / Make

do – делать, выполнять действия, работы, обязанности

I need to do my homework before dinner. – Мне нужно сделать домашнюю работу до ужина.

make – делать, создавать что-то, производить результат

She made a cake for her friend’s birthday. – Она сделала торт к дню рождения друга.

Personal Questions

1. What do you usually do after school or work?

After school, I usually do my homework and sometimes watch TV. On weekends, I like to relax and read books.

2. Have you ever made something by yourself? What was it?

Yes, I once made a photo album for my family. It took a lot of time, but everyone liked it.

3. Do you prefer to do chores at home or leave them for later? Why?

I prefer to do chores right away. It feels good to finish them and have free time later.

4. Have you ever done a difficult task successfully? How did it feel?

Yes, I once did a difficult project at school. I felt proud and satisfied when I finished it.

5. What do you usually make for breakfast or lunch?

I usually make sandwiches or scrambled eggs. Sometimes I make pancakes on weekends.

6. How often do you do sports or exercise?

I try to do exercise three times a week. It helps me feel energetic and healthy.

7. Have you ever made a gift for someone? What was it?

Yes, I made a handmade card for my friend. She really appreciated it.

8. Do you do your homework alone or with friends? Why?

I usually do my homework alone to focus better. Sometimes I ask friends for help if I don’t understand something.

9. What do you do to relax after a busy day?

I like to read a book or listen to music. Sometimes I take a short walk outside.

10. Have you ever made a mistake at school or work? What happened?

Yes, I once made a mistake in a math assignment. I corrected it after my teacher explained it to me.

11. Do you like to make plans for your day or just do things spontaneously?

I prefer to make plans for my day. It helps me organize my time better.

12. What do you usually do on weekends?

On weekends, I usually do homework, visit friends, and sometimes go to the park.

13. Have you ever made a cake or dessert for a special occasion?

Yes, I made a chocolate cake for my sister’s birthday. Everyone enjoyed it.

14. How do you feel after you do something challenging?

I feel happy and proud. It motivates me to try more difficult tasks.

15. What is the most interesting thing you have ever made?

The most interesting thing I made was a handmade photo frame. It was fun and creative.

Hear / Listen

hear – слышать, воспринимать звуки (обычно непроизвольно)

I can hear birds singing outside. – Я слышу, как снаружи поют птицы.

listen – слушать, обращать внимание на звук, сознательно воспринимать

I like to listen to music in the evening. – Мне нравится слушать музыку вечером.

Personal Questions

1. What sounds do you often hear at home?

I often hear the TV, my parents talking, and the sound of the street outside.

2. Do you like to listen to music while studying or relaxing?

Yes, I like to listen to calm music while studying. It helps me focus.

3. Have you ever heard a strange or unusual sound? What was it?

Yes, once I heard a loud noise in the middle of the night. It turned out to be a car accident nearby.

4. How often do you listen to the radio or podcasts?

I usually listen to podcasts a few times a week. They are interesting and informative.

5. Can you hear differences in languages or accents easily?

Yes, I can hear differences in accents after some practice. It helps me understand people better.

6. Do you prefer to listen to music with headphones or speakers? Why?

I prefer to listen with headphones because the sound is clearer and I don’t disturb anyone.

7. Have you ever heard a famous speech or concert live?

Yes, I once heard a famous singer perform live. It was amazing and unforgettable.

8. How carefully do you listen to teachers or lecturers?

I try to listen very carefully. It helps me understand the material and remember important points.

9. What sounds do you enjoy hearing in nature?

I enjoy hearing birds, the wind in the trees, and running water. It’s very relaxing.

10. Do you find it easy or difficult to listen to people when they speak quickly?

Sometimes it’s difficult to listen when people speak too fast. I try to focus and ask questions if I don’t understand.

11. Have you ever heard something that surprised you?

Yes, I once heard a neighbor play the piano very beautifully. I didn’t expect it at all.

12. How often do you listen to audiobooks or language lessons?

I usually listen to language lessons a few times a week. It helps me improve my English.

13. Do you prefer to hear live music or recorded music? Why?

I prefer live music because it feels more exciting. The atmosphere is amazing.

14. How do you listen when someone is giving you advice?

I listen carefully and take notes if necessary. I try to understand their point of view.

15. Have you ever heard a sound that made you feel relaxed or happy?

Yes, I often hear birds singing in the morning. It makes me feel calm and cheerful.

Look / See

look – смотреть, направлять взгляд на что-то сознательно

Look at the picture on the wall. – Посмотри на картину на стене.

see – видеть, замечать что-то непроизвольно, воспринимать глазами

I can see the mountains from my window. – Я вижу горы из своего окна.

Personal Questions

1. What do you usually look at when you wake up in the morning?

I usually look at my phone to check the time and messages. Then I look out the window to see the weather.

2. Have you ever seen something amazing in nature? What was it?

Yes, I once saw a beautiful sunset at the beach. The colors were incredible.

3. Do you prefer to look at books or screens for learning? Why?

I prefer to look at books because it’s easier on my eyes. Screens can make me tired.

4. Have you ever seen a famous landmark or building?

Yes, I saw the Eiffel Tower when I visited Paris. It was even more impressive in real life.

5. How often do you look at the news online or on TV?

I usually look at the news once or twice a day to stay informed.

6. Can you see differences in people’s faces or expressions easily?

Yes, I can see differences in expressions. It helps me understand how someone feels.

7. Have you ever looked for something and couldn’t find it?

Yes, I once looked for my keys for an hour. I finally found them in my bag.

8. What do you like to see when you go for a walk in your neighborhood?

I like to see trees, flowers, and friendly people walking their dogs. It makes the walk pleasant.

9. How often do you look at your phone during the day?

I look at my phone several times a day to check messages and notifications.

10. Have you ever seen an unusual animal or bird?

Yes, I once saw a colorful parrot in the park. I had never seen one before.

11. Do you look carefully at instructions before starting a task?

Yes, I usually look carefully at instructions. It helps me avoid mistakes.

12. How do you feel when you see something surprising or unexpected?

I feel excited and curious. I usually try to observe it carefully.

13. Have you ever seen a live performance, like a concert or play?

Yes, I saw a theater performance last year. It was very interesting and well done.

14. When you look at a photo, what do you usually notice first?

I usually notice the people in the photo first. Then I look at the background and details.

15. How often do you see your friends or family in person?

I usually see my friends a few times a week. I see my family almost every day.

Rise / Raise

rise – подниматься, вставать, повышаться (само происходит, без прямого объекта)

The sun rises at 6 a.m. – Солнце встаёт в 6 утра.

raise – поднимать, повышать (кто-то что-то поднимает или увеличивает)

Please raise your hand if you have a question. – Пожалуйста, поднимите руку, если у вас есть вопрос.

Personal Questions

1. What time do you usually rise in the morning?

I usually rise at 7 a.m. on weekdays. On weekends, I rise a bit later.

2. Have you ever raised your hand in class to answer a question?

Yes, I often raise my hand in class. It helps me participate and learn more.

3. How do you feel when the sun rises in the morning?

I feel happy and calm. The sunrise makes the morning feel peaceful.

4. Have you ever raised something heavy? What was it?

Yes, I once raised a box full of books. It was heavy, but I managed to do it carefully.

5. How often do you rise early on weekends?

I sometimes rise early on weekends if I have plans. Otherwise, I like to sleep in.

6. Can you describe a time when you raised your voice? Why?

I raised my voice once when I was frustrated during a group project. I apologized afterward.

7. Do you notice when prices rise or fall in the shops?

Yes, I notice when prices rise. It helps me decide what to buy or wait for discounts.

8. Have you ever helped raise money for a charity or school event?

Yes, I helped raise money for a local animal shelter. We organized a small sale and collected donations.

9. How do you feel when you rise to a challenge or responsibility?

I feel motivated and proud. It gives me confidence to do more in the future.

10. Do you raise questions or doubts when something is unclear?

Yes, I always raise questions in class if I don’t understand something. It helps me learn better.

11. Have you ever seen smoke or steam rise from something?