English is full of compound words or phrases that look and sound the same, but their meanings—and how they’re used—can change dramatically depending on use and context. Should it be “everyday” or “every day”? “Wake up” or “wake-up”?
Even seasoned writers get tripped up on these words. Let’s explore why these confusions occur and how to differentiate between such word pairs.
Why the Confusion?
English is constantly evolving. Over time, two words become one, vice versa, or end up hyphenated. Additionally, a lot of compound words sound the same as verb phrases, making it more difficult.
Sometimes it doesn’t even matter. A lot of hyphenated compound words are simply because of styling. Different publications use different styles that have different guidelines on these kinds of issues.
There are no standard rules. However, a good rule of thumb is that compound nouns are closed (no spaces), while compound verbs are open (spaced).
Tips for Differentiating One Word vs. Two Words
When confused, remember these things:
- Context matters. Many of these word pairs may be similar but have different uses and meanings. See if they make sense in your sentence.
- Check a dictionary. Experts regularly update dictionaries to reflect current and correct usage. Always verify rather than guess.
- Check your style guide. It might have rules and guidelines about hyphenating compound words and phrases.
- Replace. If you’re unsure, try to use a synonym that makes sense.
Commonly Confused Word Pairs
Check out this list of word pairs that frequently get confused, with a quick guide on when to use each:
1. Altogether/All together
Altogether (adjective)—entirely or completely
I am altogether happy with my exam results.
All together (phrase)—everyone or everything in the same place
We were all together when the power went out.
2. Everyday/ Every day
Everyday (adjective)—normal, mundane, common, the usual
His everyday routine includes a 20-minute nap in the afternoon.
Every day (adjective)—“each day”
I read books every day.
3. Everyone/ Every one
Everyone (pronoun)—all or everybody
This new rule is unfair for everybody.
Every one (phrase)—refers to each individual in a group
Every one of you has gone through training.
4. Already/ All ready
Already (adverb)—by this time or before the time in question
They should have arrived by this time.
All ready (phrase)—to be completely prepared.
They are all ready for the final match.
5. Anymore/ Any more
Anymore (adverb)—any longer, nowadays
They don’t make these kinds of machines anymore.
Any more (phrase)—an additional amount
Do you want any more pizza?
6. Backup/ Back up
Backup (adjective or noun)—a substitute or copy
They’re setting up a backup server for emergencies.
Back up (verb)—to make a copy of or to move back from your initial position
Everybody needs to back up from the edge of the track.
7. Pickup/ Pick up
Pickup (adjective or noun)—a type of truck, a casual encounter, or a sign of improvement
She and I agreed to replace our old car with a pickup truck.
Pick up (verb)—the act of collecting a thing or person
She likes to pick up litter while hiking the trail.
8. Awhile/ A while
Awhile (adverb)— for a length of time
Let’s rest awhile before continuing on
A while (phrase)—a period of time
The concert will take a while but it will be worth it.
9. Onetime/ One-time/ One time
Onetime, one-time (adjectives)—former or occurring only once
Skydiving is a one-time experience for me.
One time (phrase)—a specific occassion
One time, I saw a chair move by itself.
10. Anyone/ Any one
Anyone (pronoun)—refers to any person at all
Anyone would have panicked during an earthquake.
Any one (phrase)—refers to any single person within a group.
Any one of you would have done the same.
11. Wake up/ Wake-up
Wake up (verb)—to cease sleep; to become awake
She failed to wake up in time for the interview.
Wake-up (adjective or noun)—something that causes one to wake up
This surgery was her wake-up call to live healthier.
12. Setup/ Set up
Setup (adjective or noun)—the way something is organized, planned, or arranged.
The setup is going to take days for this kind of event.
Set up (verb)—to place in position, to establish
I need you guys to set up the chairs outside.
Language Evolution
The words above demonstrate how meaning and usage can change depending on whether they are written separately or as a single word. Some of these differences are slight, but knowing the correct one to use can be the difference to good writing.
Remember, meaning and usage also change depending on publications, location, and conventions. What is acceptable in one context could be frowned upon in another. When in doubt, always consult a dictionary or the style guide you’re currently following.
How do you differentiate between confusing words? Share them below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
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- Open and Closed Compound Words: Common Examples and Rules for Spelling
- American vs. British Spelling: Orthography and Alternate Spellings of Common Words
Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. He has a degree in Communications and is an advocate of media and information literacy and responsible media practices. Aside from his interest in technology, crafts, and food, he’s also your typical science fiction and fantasy junkie, spending most of his free time reading through an ever-growing to-be-read list. It’s either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Wish him luck!
