The other day I was listening to the radio when I heard someone say “The FA is loathe to act on this.”

It struck me that she actually meant ‘loth’.

Loathe is to dislike intensely.

Loth is to be reluctant to do something.

There are many words that people mix up. Often they sound similar. Here are a few more I’ve heard recently.

Cowed/Cowered/Coward.

Cowed: Intimidated.

Cowered: Crouched in fear.

Coward: Someone who lacks bravery. Faint-hearted.

Averse/Adverse.

Averse: Opposed, disinclined or unwilling.

Adverse: Contrary. Hostile

Procedure/Proceedings

Procedure: Mode of conducting business.

Proceedings: An action or conduct.

I would be interested to hear any other word confusions you have heard recently. Please post your comments in the comments box