As we write, we are always in doubt about the correct spelling of some expressions.
This is a problem that is being solved little by little. As we come into contact with the habit of reading and writing, we will notice the correct way to write words, as well as our vocabulary will improve more and more.
We cannot overlook the importance of the dictionary, as it helps us with the meaning.
Thus, we will analyze below the meaning of some expressions and the correct way to use them:
But more
The word “but” is used in the sense of opposition, of the opposite idea. See the example:
I would love to travel on this vacation, but I won't be able to.
We use the term “more” in the case of addition, sum of ideas. Watch:
My cousin, with three other friends went to the cinema.
More orders have arrived for you.
Why – Why – Why – Why
Why – It is used at the beginning of interrogative sentences.
Ex: Why didn't you come to my birthday?
Why – is usually used in answers referring to questions in general.
Ex: I didn't attend your birthday because I had visitors.
Why - It is used at the end of interrogative sentences.
Ex: Are you sad for what?
Why- It is used when the meaning is “cause”, “reason”.
Ex: I would like to know why all this noise!
bad - bad
Bad – When it can be replaced by its antonym – “good”.
Ex: Marcia is in a bad mood. In this case, we could substitute it like this:
Marcia is in a good mood.
Mal - When it can be replaced by the antonym - "good".
Ex: We shouldn't do harm to people. Here we could replace with:
We must always do good to people.
If not - If not
Otherwise - It is used when the meaning is "otherwise", "unless":
Ex: We'll go to the movies together, otherwise you'll be upset.
It could be replaced like this: We'll go to the movies together, otherwise you'll be upset.
Paulo doesn't like to do anything but play video games. Replacing it would be:
Paulo doesn't like to do anything except play video games.
If not - We use in the sense of possibility, condition:
Ex: If you cannot travel with us, let us know in advance.
There is – A
Ha - It is used when it means "past tense":
Ex: I haven't seen my cousins for two years.
They left two hours ago.
A – It is used when:
Meaning future time – Ex: I will travel in three weeks.
In the sense of “distance” – Fabiana lives two kilometers from the school.
Where where
Where - Used with verbs that portray something static, permanent. Ex:
Where do you study?
Where - It is used with verbs that portray displacement, indicating movement. Ex:
Where are you going today?
By Vânia Duarte
Graduated in Letters
Kids School Team
