TTP Idioms Guide

EA® Idioms Guide
EA® Idioms Master List
1. Able to
Construction: Correct:
able to + base verb John was able to see the fireworks from his rooftop.
Incorrect:
John was able in seeing the fireworks from his rooftop.
John was able of seeing the fireworks from his rooftop.
John was able for seeing the fireworks from his rooftop.
2. Ability to
ability to + base verb Ants have the ability to lift anywhere from 20 to 100 times their
weight.
Incorrect:
Ants have the ability for lifting anywhere from 20 to 100 times
their weight.
Ants have the ability of lifting anywhere from 20 to 100 times
their weight.
Ants have the ability in lifting anywhere from 20 to 100 times
their weight.
3. Accede to
accede to + noun The community board acceded to Polly’s request to have the
dumpster removed from in front of her house.
Incorrect:
The community board acceded at Polly’s request to have the
The community board acceded for Polly’s request to have the
The community board acceded to do Polly’s request to have the
4. Access to
access to + noun The police needed a warrant in order to gain access to the
suspect’s house.
Incorrect:
The police needed a warrant in order to gain access in the
suspect’s house.
The police needed a warrant in order to gain access of the
suspect’s house.
The police needed a warrant in order to gain access for the
suspect’s house.
5. Acclaimed as
acclaimed as + noun After his performance in the Oscar-winning film, he was
acclaimed as the greatest actor of his generation.
Incorrect:
After his performance in the Oscar-winning film, he was
acclaimed as being the greatest actor of his generation.
acclaimed for being the greatest actor of his generation.
acclaimed with having been the greatest actor of his
generation.
6. Accompanied by
accompanied by + noun Even though they weren’t frightened, the kids had to be
accompanied by a parent when they went to see the horror
movie.
Incorrect:
Even though they weren’t frightened, the kids had to be
accompanied with a parent when they went to see the horror
movie.
accompanied along with a parent when they went to see the
horror movie.
accompanied together by a parent when they went to see the
horror movie.
7. According to
according to + noun The group was arranged in the photo according to height.
Incorrect:
The group was arranged in the photo according of height.
The group was arranged in the photo according by height.
The group was arranged in the photo according for height.
8. Account for
account for + noun He couldn’t account for his whereabouts on the night of the
murder and was held in police custody until his lawyer arrived.
Note: Means “provide an Incorrect:
explanation for” or “represent.”

He couldn’t account to his whereabouts on the night of the
He couldn’t account as to his whereabouts on the night of the
He couldn’t account as for his whereabouts on the night of the
9. On account of
on account of + noun The bank foreclosed on the home on account of the owner’s
upside-down mortgage.
Note: This is a grammatically Incorrect:

correct alternative to “because
The bank foreclosed on the home by account of the owner’s
of ” or “due to,” however it is
generally not preferred to those
other options.
The bank foreclosed on the home on accounting of the owner’s
The bank foreclosed on the home on the account of the
owner’s upside-down mortgage.

10. Accuse of
accuse X of Y;
Dora was accused of petty theft, but the prosecutor accused
Dora’s sister of grand larceny.

accused of + noun/gerund
Incorrect:
Note: “Accused of ” is often Dora was accused for petty theft, but the prosecutor accused
followed by “being” and then a Dora’s sister for grand larceny.
noun or adjective (e.g., accused
of being a thief, accused of Dora was accused with petty theft, but the prosecutor accused
being lazy). Dora’s sister with grand larceny.
Dora was accused about petty theft, but the prosecutor
accused Dora’s sister over grand larceny.
11. Acquaint with
acquaint with + noun;

She joined her new coworkers for happy hour in the hopes of
getting better acquainted with them before they entrusted her

acquaint X with Y
with the project.
Incorrect:
Note: The verb entrust can also
take this construction. She joined her new coworkers for happy hour in the hopes of
getting better acquainted of them before they entrusted her for
the project.
getting better acquainted about them before they entrusted her
about the project.
getting better acquainted regarding them before they entrusted
her regarding the project.
12. Acquiesce to
acquiesce to + noun/gerund After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced to
their demands.
Incorrect:
After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced their
demands.
After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced with
their demands.
After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced at
their demands.
13. Adapt to
Con struction: Correct:
adapt to + noun/gerund;
When their daughters went off to college, the couple had a
difficult time adapting to life without children in the house.

adapt X to Y
Incorrect:
Note: Means “adjust to.” When their daughters went off to college, the couple had a
difficult time adapting into life without children in the house.
difficult time adapting with life without children in the house.
difficult time adapting about life without children in the house.
14. Adapted for
adapted for + noun/gerund The curriculum was adapted for students who spoke English as
a second language.
Note: Means “made suitable Incorrect:
for.”
The curriculum was adapted at students who spoke English as
a second language.
The curriculum was adapted around students who spoke

English as a second language.
15. Affected by
affected by + noun He was deeply affected by the combat scenes in the film and
had to leave the theater.
Incorrect:
He was deeply affected from the combat scenes in the film and
He was deeply affected about the combat scenes in the film
and had to leave the theater.
He was deeply affected of the combat scenes in the film and

16. Afflicted with / by
afflicted with/by + noun She was afflicted with a disease so rare that few healers had
ever heard of it.
She was afflicted by a disease so rare that few healers had ever
heard of it.
Incorrect:
She was afflicted of a disease so rare that few healers had ever
heard of it.
She was afflicted from a disease so rare that few healers had
ever heard of it.
17. Afraid of
afraid of + noun/gerund The little boy was afraid of the dark, so his parents bought a
nightlight for his room.
Incorrect:
The little boy was afraid about the dark, so his parents bought a
The little boy was afraid over the dark, so his parents bought a
The little boy was afraid from the dark, so his parents bought a
18. Agree to
agree to + base verb;
He had agreed to the terms in writing, so his lawsuit against the
company did not hold up in court.
agree to + noun
Incorrect:
He had agreed into the terms in writing, so his lawsuit against
the company did not hold up in court.
He had agreed as to the terms in writing, so his lawsuit against

He had agreed over the terms in writing, so his lawsuit against

19. Agree / disagree with
agree/disagree with + Even if you don’t agree with his opinions, you can still respect
them and try to collaborate with him.
noun/pronoun
Incorrect:
Note: Other verbs that take this Even if you don’t agree over his opinions, you can still respect
construction are: collaborate, them and try to collaborate together with him.
comply, sympathize.
Even if you don’t agree in his opinions, you can still respect
them and try to collaborate in partnership with him.
20. Aid in
aid in + noun/gerund;
The tutor aided the student in preparing for the test.
aid X in Y
Incorrect:
The tutor aided the student to prepare for the test.
Note: You give aid to or for a
The tutor aided the student at preparing for the test.
person, country, etc., but you
aid in an activity. The tutor aided the student of preparing for the test.
21. Allocate to
allocate X to Y The department allocated the government grant to enhanced
training initiatives for the officers.
Incorrect:
The department allocated the government grant for enhanced
The department allocated the government grant as enhanced

The department allocated the government grant into enhanced

22. Allow for
allow X for Y;
A one-hour meeting doesn’t allow sufficient time for the board
to discuss this quarter’s agenda, so we should allow for such
allow for X
discussion when scheduling the next meeting.
Note: Allow X for Y means to Incorrect:

allocate an amount; allow for X A one-hour meeting doesn’t allow sufficient time to the board
means to take into to discuss this quarter’s agenda, so we should allow more time
consideration or make a to such discussion when scheduling the meeting.
provision for something.
23. Allow to
allow X to Y;
Gina’s parents didn’t allow her to go out on Saturday night, but
she was permitted to watch a movie.
allow to + base verb
Incorrect:
Note: Similar verbs that take Gina’s parents didn’t allow on her going out on Saturday night,
this construction are but she was permitted on watching a movie.
encourage, force, permit,
persuade. Gina’s parents didn’t allow her for going out on Saturday night,
but she was permitted for watching a movie.
Gina’s parents didn’t allow in her going out on Saturday night,

but she was permitted as to watching a movie.
24. Alternative to
alternative to + noun/gerund In Josh’s county, there was no alternative to his internet
provider, so he couldn’t switch to a more reliable service.
Incorrect:
In Josh’s county, there was no alternative of his internet
In Josh’s county, there was no alternative from his internet

In Josh’s county, there was no alternative in comparison to his

internet provider, so he couldn’t switch to a more reliable
service.
25. Amount to
amount to + noun The negotiations never amounted to a vote because the
committee determined that expenses related to the measure
would amount to $100 billion.
Note: Meaning “sum to” or
“result in.” Verb may be Incorrect:
conjugated. The negotiations never amounted in a vote because the
would amount in $100 billion.
The negotiations never amounted as a vote because the

would amount as $100 billion.
The negotiations never amounted into a vote because the

would amount into $100 billion.
26. Analogous to
analogous to + noun/gerund The pretentious artist claimed that creating the sculpture was
analogous to giving birth.
Incorrect:
The pretentious artist claimed that creating the sculpture was
analogous for giving birth.

analogous of giving birth.

analogous as giving birth.
27. Analogy to/with
analogy to/with + noun/gerund The teacher explained the complex hierarchy of the royal court
by drawing an analogy to a modern-day corporate structure.
The teacher explained the complex hierarchy of the royal court

by drawing an analogy with a modern-day corporate structure.
28. Angry at
angry at + [person/entity] Lorna was angry at her neighbors because they were late to
the potluck and didn’t bring a dish.
Incorrect:
Lorna was angry over her neighbors because they were late to
the potluck and didn’t bring a dish.
29. Angry about
angry about +
The teachers were angry about the ongoing lack of support
from the administration.
[situation/condition/event]
Incorrect:
The teachers were angry from the ongoing lack of support
from the administration.
30. Appeal to
appeal to + [person/entity] The combination of chicken and waffles didn’t appeal to him, so
he ordered a burger instead.
Incorrect:
The combination of chicken and waffles didn’t appeal at him, so
The combination of chicken and waffles didn’t appeal in him, so

31. Appear to
appear to + base verb On the surface, Sam appeared to have it all together, but inside
he was panicked and dismayed.
Note: O ther verbs that can take Incorrect:

this construction are claim, O n the surface, Sam appeared at having it all together, but
decide, seem. inside he was panicked and dismayed.
O n the surface, Sam appeared as having it all together, but

inside he was panicked and dismayed.
On the surface, Sam appeared he had it all together, but inside

he was panicked and dismayed.
32. Approved/disapprove of
approve/disapprove of +
Lisa’s parents strongly disapproved of her decision to take a
year off before college.
noun/gerund
Incorrect:
Lisa’s parents strongly disapproved about her decision to take
a year off before college.
Lisa’s parents strongly disapproved with her decision to take a

Lisa’s parents strongly disapproved at her decision to take a

33. Apply for
apply for + noun Today is the last day to apply for the job.
Incorrect:
Today is the last day to apply about the job.
34. Argue for/against
argue for/against + noun/gerund Martin Luther King, Jr., argued for equality in American society.
Martin Luther King, Jr., argued against racial segregation in

American society.
Note: Another verb that takes
this construction is fight.
Incorrect:
Martin Luther King, Jr., argued at racial segregation in American
society.
35. Argue with
argue with + noun/pronoun The co-op board members argued with each other vociferously,
but they always reached an amicable compromise by the end of
their meetings.
Incorrect:
The co-op board members argued at each other vociferously,
their meetings.
The co-op board members argued to each other vociferously,

their meetings.
36. As ... as
as X as Y Television streaming services are not as popular nationally as
cable services, although their market share is rapidly growing.
Note: U sed for comparisons. Incorrect:

Television streaming services are not so popular nationally as
Television streaming services are not more popular nationally

as cable services, although their market share is rapidly
growing.
Television streaming services are not as popular nationally than

37. As of
as of + [time/date] Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director as of next
Monday.
Incorrect:
Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director for next
Monday.
Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director as on next

Monday.
Jackson will begin his tenure as interim director as to next

Monday.
38. Ask of
ask of + noun;
All I ask of a movie is that it make me laugh.
ask X of/for Y
Incorrect:
All I ask from a movie is that it make me laugh.
Note: “Ask of” means “demand
from.”
All I ask to a movie is that it make me laugh.
39. Ask for
ask for + noun;
If the panel cannot be repaired, I will ask for a refund.
ask X for Y
Incorrect:
If the panel cannot be repaired, I will ask into a refund.
Note: “Ask for” means
“request.”
40. Ask whether
ask X whether Y;
The English professor asked the class whether they preferred
ask whether + noun clause Updike or Cheever.
Incorrect:
Note: Introduces an uncertainty. The English professor asked the class if they preferred Updike
Other verbs that pair with or Cheever.
“whether” to introduce
uncertainties include the The English professor asked the class regarding whether they
following: depend on; preferred Updike or Cheever.
determine; dispute; question;
The English professor asked the class about whether they
wonder.
preferred Updike or Cheever.
41. Associate with
associate with + noun/gerund;
The press associated his contentious divorce with his
associate X with Y subsequent decision to retire from the NFL, but the two events
were unrelated.
Incorrect:
The press associated his contentious divorce along with his
subsequent decision to retire from the NFL, but the two events
were unrelated.
The press associated his contentious divorce to his

subsequent decision to retire from the NFL, but the two events
were unrelated.
42. Assure that
assure X that Y;
The mother assured her son that the loud noise was just a car
assure that + noun clause backfiring.
Incorrect:
The mother assured her son of the loud noise’s being just a car
backfiring.
The mother assured to her son that the loud noise was just a
car backfiring.
43. Attend to
attend to + noun Alice had to leave work early to attend to a family crisis.
Note: Meaning “deal with” or Incorrect:

“give attention to.”
Alice had to leave work early to attend on a family crisis.

Alice had to leave work early to attend about a family crisis.
Alice had to leave work early to attend for a family crisis.

44. Attended by
attended by + noun The wedding will be attended by prominent politicians and
Hollywood celebrities alike.
Incorrect:
The wedding will be attended of prominent politicians and
The wedding will be attended with prominent politicians and

45. Attest to
attest to + noun/gerund The psychiatrist attested to the defendant’s fitness to stand
trial.
Note: Verb may be conjugated.

Incorrect:
The psychiatrist attested into the defendant’s fitness to stand
trial.
The psychiatrist attested regarding the defendant’s fitness to

stand trial.
The psychiatrist attested on the defendant’s fitness to stand

trial.
46. Attribute to
attribute X to Y;
Gregory attributed his father’s death to negligent hospital care
attribute to + noun/gerund and planned to sue.
Incorrect:
Gregory attributed his father’s death from negligent hospital
care and planned to sue.
Gregory attributed his father’s death as negligent hospital care

and planned to sue.
Gregory attributed his father’s death as a result of negligent

hospital care and planned to sue.
47. Averse to
averse to + noun/gerund Surprisingly, the school board is not averse to radical changes
to the curriculum.
Incorrect:
Surprisingly, the school board is not averse about radical
changes to the curriculum.
Surprisingly, the school board is not averse as to radical

changes to the curriculum.
Surprisingly, the school board is not aversed to radical changes

to the curriculum.
48. Based on
based on + noun Based on the experiences of five scientists, the book provides
a rare glimpse of the challenges a leading researcher can face.
Incorrect:
Based from the experiences of five scientists, the book
provides a rare glimpse of the challenges a leading researcher
can face.
Based about the experiences of five scientists, the book

can face.
Based onto the experiences of five scientists, the book

can face.
49. Because of
because of + noun/gerund We couldn’t play soccer outdoors because of the rain, so we
moved the game inside.
Note: “Because of” functions as Incorrect:

a preposition and introduces a We couldn’t play soccer outdoors because the rain, so we
prepositional phrase that acts moved the game inside.
adverbially, expressing why
something is true.
50. Belief/believe in
belief/believe in + noun Her belief in ghosts made spending the night in such an old
house a scary prospect for her, but the other guests did not
believe in ghosts.
Incorrect:
Her belief of ghosts made spending the night in such an old
believe of ghosts.
Her belief on ghosts made spending the night in such an old

believe on ghosts.
Her belief as to ghosts made spending the night in such an old

believe regarding ghosts.
51. Believe that
believe that + clause There are still some conspiracy theorists who believe that the
moon landing was staged.
Incorrect:
There are still some conspiracy theorists who believe in the
moon landing was staged.
There are still some conspiracy theorists who believe in that the
moon landing was staged
52. Believe to be
believe X to be Y;
Fire department officials believed faulty wiring to be the cause
is believed to be + noun/gerund of the explosion.
Incorrect:
Fire department officials believed in faulty wiring to be the
cause of the explosion.
Fire department officials believed faulty wiring as being the

cause of the explosion.
Fire department officials believed in faulty wiring as the cause

of the explosion.
53. Benefit from
benefit from + noun/gerund Many of her supporters would benefit from her plan to expand
tax breaks for the middle class.
Incorrect:
Many of her supporters would benefit resulting from her plan to
expand tax breaks for the middle class.
Many of her supporters would benefit by her plan to expand tax

breaks for the middle class.
Many of her supporters would benefit out of her plan to expand

tax breaks for the middle class.
54. Better than
better than + noun/gerund;
There is nothing better than a glass of iced tea on a hot
better X than Y summer day, but there are worse things than water.
Incorrect:
Note: This construction is also There is nothing better compared to a glass of iced tea on a hot
valid for the following: worse summer day, but there are worse things besides water.
than, greater than, less than,
more than, larger than, smaller There is nothing better as a glass of iced tea on a hot summer
than, sooner than. day, but there are worse things as water.
There is nothing better rather than a glass of iced tea on a hot

summer day, but there are worse things rather than water.
55. Between ... and
between X and Y The couple couldn’t decide between a DJ and a band for their
wedding, so they flipped a coin.
Incorrect:
The couple couldn’t decide between a DJ or a band for their
wedding, so they flipped a coin.
The couple couldn’t decide between a DJ or else a band for

their wedding, so they flipped a coin.
56. Born of
born of + noun His success was born of hard work.
Incorrect:
Note: Means “a result of.” His success was born out from hard work.
57. Both ... and
both X and Y Material from both the readings and the class discussion will be
covered on the test.
Incorrect:
Material from both the readings as well as the class discussion
will be covered on the test.
Material from both the readings in addition to the class

discussion will be covered on the test.
58. Capable of
capable of + noun/gerund Recent studies show that humans are far less capable of
multitasking than people previously believed.
Incorrect:
Recent studies show that humans are far less capable for
Recent studies show that humans are far less capable about
Recent studies show that humans are far less capable to

multitask than people previously believed.
59. Center on
center on + noun/gerund The discussion centered on fracking’s environmental impact.
Incorrect:
The discussion centered around fracking’s environmental
impact.
The discussion centered onto fracking’s environmental impact.
The discussion centered in fracking’s environmental impact.

60. Choice of
choice of + noun The prix fixe offered a choice of three main courses.
Incorrect:
The prix fixe offered a choice for three main courses.
The prix fixe offered a choice about three main courses.
The prix fixe offered a choice as to three main courses.
61. Choose from
choose from + noun;
The actor chose a brightly colored suit from the designer’s fall
choose X from Y collection.
62. Choose to
choose to + base verb;
The actor chose to practice his lines without the aid of a
choose X to Y teleprompter.
Incorrect:
The actor chose on practicing his lines without the aid of a
teleprompter.
The actor chose about practicing his lines without the aid of a
teleprompter.
63. Collide with
collide with + noun The cars collided with each other in the intersection.
Incorrect:
The cars collided into each other in the intersection.
The cars collided on each other in the intersection.
The cars collided to each other in the intersection.

64. Comment on
comment on + noun/gerund The police commissioner refused to comment on an active
investigation.
Incorrect:
The police commissioner refused to comment into an active
investigation.
he police commissioner refused to comment as to an active

T
investigation.
65. Compare with
compare X with Y After they compared the new model with the old one, the
reviewers were unsure which they preferred.
Note: When we compare X with Incorrect:

Y, we compare two items and After they compared between the new model and the old one,
consider their similarities and the reviewers were unsure which they preferred.
differences.
After they compared the new model from the old one, the
reviewers were unsure which they preferred.
66. Compare to
compare X to Y The young artist is already being compared to Dali.
Incorrect:
Note: When we compare X to Y, The young artist is already being compared as being like Dali.
generally we are expressing
that X is similar to Y. However,
people also use “compare X to
Y” in the same way as they use
“compare X with Y,” to express
that two items are being
compared and their similarities
and differences are being
considered.
67. Combine with
combine X with Y;
Olive oil combined with balsamic vinegar and fresh lemon
X combines with Y makes a delicious salad dressing.
Incorrect:
Olive oil combined along with balsamic vinegar and fresh
lemon makes a delicious salad dressing.
Olive oil combined to balsamic vinegar and fresh lemon makes

a delicious salad dressing.
68. Common to
X is common to Y Political opponents must reach across the aisle to address the
concerns that are common to all of us.
Note: “Common to” is used to Incorrect:

mean “shared by.” Political opponents must reach across the aisle to address the
concerns that are common regarding all of us.
69. In common with
X [has] Y in common with Z Natasha had nothing in common with her coworkers, so she
felt very uncomfortable at happy hour.
Incorrect:
Natasha had nothing in common to her coworkers, so she felt
very uncomfortable at happy hour.
Natasha had nothing in common along with her coworkers, so

she felt very uncomfortable at happy hour.
70. Compensate for
compensate for + noun/gerund The meeting ended a half-hour later than scheduled to
compensate for the late start.
Incorrect:
The meeting ended a half-hour later than scheduled to
compensate about the late start.

compensate as to the late start.

compensate in light of the late start.
71. Comply with
comply with + noun If you don’t comply with the officer’s instructions, you may be
charged with resisting arrest.
Incorrect:
If you don’t comply to the officer’s instructions, you may be
If you don’t comply about the officer’s instructions, you may be

If you don’t comply along with the officer’s instructions, you

may be charged with resisting arrest.
72. Composed of
composed of + noun The city council was composed of residents of all ages and
backgrounds.
eans “made up of.”

Note: M Incorrect:
The city council was composed from residents of all ages and
backgrounds.
The city council was composed by residents of all ages and

backgrounds.
73. Comprises
comprises + noun The metropolitan area comprises the city and five surrounding
counties.
Note: Means “includes,” Incorrect:

“contains,” or “consists of.” The metropolitan area comprises on the city and five
surrounding counties.
74. Concerned with
concerned with + noun/gerund The board was more concerned with passing a balanced
budget than with anything else on the agenda.
Note: Indicates a focus on or Incorrect:

interest in something (as The board was more concerned on passing a balanced budget
opposed to a worry about than on anything else on the agenda.
something).
The board was more concerned in passing a balanced budget
than in anything else on the agenda.
The board was more concerned to pass a balanced budget

than anything else on the agenda.
75. Conducive to
conducive to + noun/gerund Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive to productive debate and
is unlikely to lead to compromise.
Incorrect:
Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive for productive debate and
Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive of productive debate and

Such harsh rhetoric is not conducive to productively debate

and is unlikely to lead to compromise.
76. Conform to
conform to + noun Avant-garde artists do not conform to social and cultural
trends, and thus are often viewed as controversial.
Note: Means “be or act in Incorrect:

accordance with.” Widely Avant-garde artists do not conform into social and cultural
considered interchangeable trends, and thus are often viewed as controversial.
with “conform with.”
Avant-garde artists do not conform regarding social and
cultural trends, and thus are often viewed as controversial.
77. Conform with
conform with + noun All articles submitted for publication must conform with this
format.
Note: Means “match or fit with.” Incorrect:

Widely considered All articles submitted for publication must conform under this
interchangeable with “conform format.
to.”
All articles submitted for publication must conform onto this
format.
78. Consequence of
consequence of + noun/gerund Numerous mid-level employees were laid off as a consequence
of the corporate restructuring.
Incorrect:
Numerous mid-level employees were laid off as a consequence
from the corporate restructuring.

because of the corporate restructuring.
to the corporate restructuring.
79. Consider X Y
consider + noun/gerund
Pundits consider the referendum likely to pass with
+ [characteristic/thing] overwhelming support.
Incorrect:
Pundits consider the referendum to be likely to pass with
overwhelming support.
Pundits consider the referendum as being to pass with

Pundits consider that the referendum is likely to pass with

80. Consist of
consist of + noun/gerund The reading list consisted of both novels and nonfiction works
on the Soviet era.
Incorrect:
The reading list consisted about both novels and nonfiction
works on the Soviet era.
The reading list consisted with both novels and nonfiction

works on the Soviet era.
81. Consistent with
consistent with + noun/gerund The shattered window was consistent with a break-in.
Incorrect:
The shattered window was consistent to a break-in.
The shattered window was consistent of a break-in.

82. Continue to
continue to + base verb The soldiers continued to advance through the wilderness as
night fell.
Incorrect:
The soldiers continued in advancing through the wilderness as
night fell.
The soldiers continued at advancing through the wilderness as

night fell.
83. Contrast with
contrast X with Y;
If you contrast his findings with those of previous studies, you
X contrasts with Y will see that further research is necessary.
Incorrect:
If you contrast his findings against those of previous studies,
you will see that further research is necessary.
If you contrast his findings from those of previous studies, you

will see that further research is necessary.
If you contrast his findings along with those of previous studies,

you will see that further research is necessary.
84. In contrast to
in contrast to + noun;
The executive order stands in stark contrast to the president’s
in contrast to X, Y campaign promise.
Incorrect:
The executive order stands in stark contrast against the
president’s campaign promise.
The executive order stands in stark contrast compared to the

The executive order stands in stark contrast from the

85. Contribute to
contribute to + noun/gerund Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed to the end of
the Cold War.
Incorrect:
Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed for the end of
the Cold War.
Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed as to the end

of the Cold War.
Gorbachev’s glasnost policy greatly contributed into the end of

the Cold War.
86. Contrary to
contrary to + noun Contrary to popular belief, pearls do not typically form from
grains of sand.
Incorrect:
Contrary from popular belief, pearls do not typically form from
grains of sand.
Contrary against popular belief, pearls do not typically form

from grains of sand.
Contrary of popular belief, pearls do not typically form from

grains of sand.
87. Convert to
convert X to Y;
The human body converts carbohydrates to glucose for energy.
convert to + noun Incorrect:
The human body converts carbohydrates over to glucose for
energy.
88. Convince that
convince [someone] that +
Although Rashida likes her workout routine, she isn’t convinced
noun clause;
that she will be able to stick with it.
is convinced that + noun clause Incorrect:

Although Rashida likes her workout routine, she isn’t convincing
that she will be able to stick with it.
89. Convince to
convince [someone] to +
Andrei’s best friend convinced him to join the organization.
base verb
Incorrect:
Andrei’s best friend convinced him into joining the organization.
Andrei’s best friend convinced him as to joining the

organization.
Andrei’s best friend convinced him on joining the organization.
90. Correspond to
correspond to + noun The number of ballots counted did not correspond to the
number of signatures on the voter roll, so a recount was done.
Incorrect:
Note: Means “match” or “be
The number of ballots counted did not correspond given the
equivalent/analogous to” (as
opposed to an exchange of
communications, i.e., The number of ballots counted did not correspond in the
“correspond with”).
The number of ballots counted did not correspond along with

the number of signatures on the voter roll, so a recount was
done.
91. Cost of/to
cost of/to + noun/gerund As the cost of college continued to rise, the cost to families
became untenable.
Incorrect:
As the cost for college continued to rise, the cost from families
became untenable.
92. Credit with
credit X with Y;
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited with inventing the
credit with + noun/gerund telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
telephone several years before Bell filed his patent.
Incorrect:
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited in inventing the
telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited for inventing the

telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
Although Alexander Graham Bell is credited to have invented

the telephone, Antonio Meucci developed a design for the
93. Credit for
verb + credit for + noun/gerund Sandy took credit for the creation of the algorithm, but it was
actually a group effort.
Note: Frequently preceded by Incorrect:

the verbs “give” (e.g., give X Sandy took credit about the creation of the algorithm, but it
credit for Y) or “take” (e.g., take was actually a group effort.
credit for X).
Sandy took credit as to the creation of the algorithm, but it was
Sandy took credit that she created the algorithm, but it was
94. A credit to
a credit to + noun Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit to the
organization.
Incorrect:
Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit with
the organization.
Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit at the
organization.
Dan, who has handled the situation quite well, is a credit for the
organization.
95. Date at
date [thing] + at [age] The fossil was dated at 350 million years old.
Incorrect:
Note: “ Date at” is a rarely used The fossil was dated as being 350 million years old.
idiom that means “determine to
be” (x years old).
The fossil was dated to be 350 million years old.
The fossil was dated that it was 350 million years old.
96. Date from
[thing] + dates from + [time] Archaeologists have determined that the vase dates from the
5th century.
Note: M eans “came into being in.” Incorrect:

Archaeologists have determined that the vase dates in the 5th
century.
Archaeologists have determined that the vase dates as of the

5th century.
Archaeologists have determined that the vase dates out of the

5th century.
97. Deal with
deal with + noun/gerund Aid workers spent months dealing with the aftermath of the
hurricane.
Incorrect:
Aid workers spent months dealing from the aftermath of the
hurricane.
Aid workers spent months dealing regarding the aftermath of

the hurricane.
98. Debate on/over
debate on/over + [issue] The debate over how to allocate the revenue lasted well into
the night.
Incorrect:
The debate of how to allocate the revenue lasted well into the
night.
The debate as to how to allocate the revenue lasted well into

the night.
99. Defend against/from
defend against X;
His publicist defended him against the media onslaught during
defend X against Y his contentious divorce.
His publicist defended him from the media onslaught during his
contentious divorce.
Incorrect:
His publicist defended him away from the media onslaught
during his contentious divorce.
His publicist defended him to the media onslaught during his

contentious divorce.
100. Define as
define X as Y; define as + noun Many define healing as attaining a state of harmony.
Incorrect:
Note: Similar verbs that take Many define healing as being attaining a state of harmony.
this construction include the
following: depict, perceive, Many define healing to be attaining a state of harmony.
regard, see, view.
Many define healing is attaining a state of harmony.
101. Delighted by
delighted by + noun Lena was delighted by her sister’s suggestion that they split the
lottery winnings.
Note: “Delighted by” is usually Incorrect:

followed by a person or Lena was delighted from her sister’s suggestion that they split
something that someone has the lottery winnings.
done.
Lena was delighted based on her sister’s suggestion that they
split the lottery winnings.
102. Delighted with
delighted with + noun Sienna was delighted with the new technology.
Incorrect:
Note: “Delighted with” is usually Sienna was delighted from the new technology.
followed by an inanimate object
Sienna was delighted on the new technology.
or other thing that pleases
someone.
103. Demand that
demand that + clause The company demands that all prospective employees pass a
drug test before a formal offer is made.
Incorrect:
The company demands for all prospective employees to pass a
The company demands all prospective employees passing a

The company demands all prospective employees to pass a

104. Descend from / descendant of
X descends from Y; All domesticated dogs descended from wolves, though my dog
descendant of + noun acts like a descendant of British royalty.
Incorrect:
All domesticated dogs descended of wolves, though my dog
acts like a descendant from British royalty.
All domesticated dogs descended with wolves, though my dog

acts like a descendant to British royalty.
All domesticated dogs descended down from wolves, though

my dog acts like a descendant out of British royalty.
105. Desirous of
desirous of + noun The populist rhetoric of tyrannical governments provides a
smoke screen for leaders who are desirous of wealth and
envious of others’ power.
Note: Another adjective that
takes this construction is Incorrect:
envious.
The populist rhetoric of tyrannical governments provides a

smoke screen for leaders who are desirous for wealth and
envious for others’ power.

smoke screen for leaders desirous about wealth and envious
on others’ power.

smoke screen for leaders desirous to get wealth and envious
to have others’ power.
106. Determined by
X is determined by Y Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined by
both nature and nurture.
Incorrect:
Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined from
Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined with

Scientists believe that individual intelligence is determined

considering both nature and nurture.
107. Different from / differ from
IQ tests are very different from other types of exams, and thus
X is different from Y;
the scoring methodology for IQ tests differs from that of any
X differs from Y other exam.
Incorrect:
IQ tests are very different compared to other types of exams,
and thus the scoring methodology for IQ tests differs
compared to that of any other exam.
IQ tests are very different as to other types of exams, and thus

the scoring methodology for IQ tests differs as to that of any
other exam.
108. Differ in
X and Y differ in Z;
Politically conservative citizens often differ widely in their
X differ in Y beliefs.
Incorrect:
Politically conservative citizens often differ widely as to their
beliefs.
Politically conservative citizens often differ widely between

their beliefs.
109. Difference between
difference between X and Y The difference between investing and speculating is not clear
to many market participants.
Incorrect:
The difference between investing or speculating is not clear to
many market participants.
The difference as to investing and speculating is not clear to

many market participants.
The difference regarding investing and speculating is not clear

to many market participants.
110. Difficult to
difficult to + base verb Initially, it was difficult to assess the damage because the
floodwaters were so high.
Incorrect:
Initially, it was difficult as to assess the damage because the
Initially, it was difficult in assessing the damage because the

111. Discourage from
discourage X from Y; Sheila tried to discourage her son from watching TV all
discourage from + gerund afternoon by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the
other kids in the neighborhood.
Incorrect:
Sheila tried to discourage her son about watching TV all
afternoon by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the
Sheila tried to discourage her son against watching TV all

afternoon by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the
Sheila tried to discourage her son not to watch TV all afternoon

by suggesting that he play soccer with some of the other kids in
the neighborhood.
112. Dispose of
dispose of + noun The judge declared a mistrial after the defense revealed that
the investigating officer had improperly disposed of evidence.
Incorrect:
The judge declared a mistrial after the defense revealed that
the investigating officer had improperly disposed evidence.

the investigating officer had improperly disposed away
evidence.

the investigating officer had improperly disposed out evidence.
113. Distinguish between/from
distinguish between X and Y; Children often have trouble distinguishing right from wrong,
distinguish X from Y but they can at least distinguish between lying and telling the
truth.
Incorrect:
Note: “Between” and “from” are Children often have trouble distinguishing right or wrong, but
also used with the noun form
they can at least distinguish between lying or telling the truth.
“distinction”: distinction
between X and Y; distinction of Children often have trouble distinguishing about right and
X from Y. wrong, but they can at least distinguish about lying and telling
the truth.
Children often have trouble distinguishing right compared to

wrong, but they can at least distinguish as to lying and telling
the truth.
114. Diverge/divergent from
/ +
diverge divergent from noun Within the Northeast U.S., local accents are surprisingly
v
di ergent from one another, even varying within cities.
Incorrect:
Within the Northeast U.S., local accents are surprisingly
v
di ergent apart from one another, even varying within cities.

v
di ergent away from one another, even varying within cities.

v
di ergent to one another, even varying within cities.
5 a
11 . Dr w on/from
draw on X; draw X from Y j k
When auditioning for a role in a tear er er, she draws on sad
x
e periences from her own life; in comedic roles, she often
draws inspiration from her childhood.
Incorrect:
j k
When auditioning for a role in a tear er er, she draws out of sad
x
e periences from her own life; in comedic roles, she often
draws inspiration out of her childhood.
j k
When auditioning for a role in a tear er er, she draws based on
x
sad e periences from her own life; in comedic roles, she often
draws inspiration based on her childhood.
116. Due to
due to + noun The growing trend of “cord-cutting” in recent years has been
due to increased competition from streaming services.
Note: “Due to” and “because Incorrect:

of” cannot be used The growing trend of “cord-cutting” in recent years has been
interchangeably on the EA.
due from increased competition from streaming services.
“Due to” must essentially mean
“caused by” in a sentence. Try The growing trend of “cord-cutting” in recent years has been
replacing “due to” with “caused due out of increased competition from streaming services.
by” to see whether “due to” is
correct.
117. Either...or / Neither...nor
either X or Y;
You can either eat your vegetables or go to your room; neither
neither X nor Y your father nor I will be happy if you choose the latter.
Incorrect:
You can either eat your vegetables or else go to your room;
neither your father or else I will be happy if you choose the
latter.
You can either eat your vegetables or otherwise go to your

room; neither your father or I will be happy if you choose the
latter.
You can either eat your vegetables, otherwise go to your room;

not your father nor I will be happy if you choose the latter.
118. Embarrassed by
embarrassed by + noun John was embarrassed by his parents’ public displays of
affection.
Note: Encouraged and Incorrect:

discouraged can also take this John was embarrassed from his parents’ public displays of
construction.
affection.

John was embarrassed as to his parents’ public displays of

affection.
John was embarrassed based on his parents’ public displays of

affection.
119. Employ as
employ as + noun While employed as a kindergarten teacher, Bethany also
worked as a bartender during the summers.
Note: Work also takes this Incorrect:

construction. Verb may be While employed as being a kindergarten teacher, Bethany also
conjugated. worked as being a bartender during the summers.
While employed to be a kindergarten teacher, Bethany also

worked in being a bartender during the summers.
While employed for a kindergarten teacher, Bethany also

worked as that of a bartender during the summers.
120. Enable to
enable X to Y. The funding increase enabled the school to purchase new
textbooks.
Incorrect:
The funding increase enabled the school in purchasing new
textbooks.
The funding increase enabled the school in the purchase of

new textbooks.
The funding increase enabled the school of purchasing new

textbooks.
121. Enamored of/with
enamored of/with + noun The boys were enamored of the puppy and played fetch with it
all morning.
The boys were enamored with the puppy and played fetch with
it all morning.
Incorrect:
The boys were enamored at the puppy and played fetch with it
all morning.
The boys were enamored on the puppy and played fetch with it
all morning.
122. Equal to
equal to + noun Winning the tournament took incredible focus and stamina, but
the team showed that they were equal to the task.
Incorrect:
Winning the tournament took incredible focus and stamina, but
the team showed that they were equal up against the task.

the team showed that they were equal in facing the task.

the team showed that they were equal for the task.
123. Estimate to be
estimate X to be Y The family fortune was estimated to be nearly a billion dollars,
but much of the money was invested overseas.
Incorrect:
The family fortune was estimated as being nearly a billion
dollars, but much of the money was invested overseas.
The family fortune was estimated for nearly a billion dollars, but
much of the money was invested overseas.
The family fortune was estimated near to a billion dollars, but

much of the money was invested overseas.
124. Expect to
expect to + base verb;
Ruth expects her kids to clean their dishes, so she didn’t expect
expect X to Y to find a mess in the kitchen when she got home late from work.
Incorrect:
Ruth expects for her kids to clean their dishes, so she didn’t
expect for finding a mess in the kitchen when she got home
late from work.
Ruth expects as to her kids cleaning their dishes, so she didn’t

expect as to finding a mess in the kitchen when she got home
late from work.
125. Expend on
expend [time/resource] + on The company expended so much of its annual budget on the
[activity/thing] marketing campaign that there was no money left to give
holiday bonuses to the employees.
Incorrect:
The company expended so much of its annual budget for the
marketing campaign that there was no money left to give
The company expended so much of its annual budget to the

The company expended so much of its annual budget into the

126. Extend to
extend X to Y;
I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand to those in
extend to + noun need and expose their children to other ways of life.
Incorrect:
Note: The verbs expose and I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand onto those in
explain can also take this need and expose their children into other ways of life.
construction.
I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand regarding those
in need and expose their children regarding other ways of life.
I admire celebrities who extend a helping hand as to those in

need and expose their children as to other ways of life.
127. Extent of
extent of + noun The interviews, conducted over many years, revealed the full
extent of Charles Manson’s madness.
Incorrect:
The interviews, conducted over many years, revealed the full
extent as to Charles Manson’s madness.

extent in regard to Charles Manson’s madness.

extent about Charles Manson’s madness.
128. Exchange for
exchange X for Y;
He knew he would be on his feet for most of the night, so he
exchange for + noun exchanged the shoes for a more comfortable pair.
Incorrect:
exchanged the shoes to be a more comfortable pair.

exchanged the shoes to be a more comfortable pair.

exchanged the shoes into a more comfortable pair.
129. Familiar with
familiar with + noun Before he took the course in classical music, he wasn’t even
familiar with Beethoven’s Fifth.
Incorrect:
Before he took the course in classical music, he wasn’t even
familiar about Beethoven’s Fifth.

familiar as to Beethoven’s Fifth.

familiar regarding Beethoven’s Fifth.
130. Fascinated by/with
fascinated by/with + noun Frannie is particularly fascinated by string theory.
Frannie is particularly fascinated with string theory.
Incorrect:
Frannie is particularly fascinated on string theory.
Frannie is particularly fascinated about string theory.

131. Fascination with
fascination with + noun Frannie’s fascination with physics isn’t limited to controversial
theories.
Incorrect:
Frannie’s fascination on physics isn’t limited to controversial
theories.
Frannie’s fascination about physics isn’t limited to controversial

theories.
132. Fluctuation in
fluctuation in + noun Recent fluctuations in the stock market have made investors
wary.
Incorrect:
Recent fluctuations to the stock market have made investors
wary.
Recent fluctuations by the stock market have made investors

wary.
Recent fluctuations from the stock market have made investors

wary.
133. Focus on
focus on + noun/gerund You will get more accomplished by focusing on the task at hand
rather than worrying about what you need to do next.
Incorrect:
You will get more accomplished by focusing at the task at hand
You will get more accomplished by focusing to the task at hand

You will get more accomplished by focusing into the task at

hand rather than worrying about what you need to do next.
134. Followed by
followed by + noun The reading will be followed by a brief question-and-answer
period and then a book signing.
Incorrect:
The reading will be followed with a brief question-and-answer
The reading will be followed to a brief question-and-answer

The reading will be followed along with a brief

question-and-answer period and then a book signing.
135. For every x, y
for every + noun, For every thousand dollars in sales, the company will donate
independent clause one dollar to charity.
Incorrect:
Note: Used to show a
For every thousand dollars in sales, then the company will
cause-and-effect relationship. donate one dollar to charity.
For every thousand dollars in sales, that means the company

will donate one dollar to charity.
136. Forbid/forbidden to
forbid X to Y;
The hunters were forbidden to enter private lands.
forbidden to + base verb
Incorrect:
The hunters were forbidden from entering private lands.
The hunters were forbidden entering private lands.
The hunters were forbidden about entering private lands.

137. Frequency/infrequency of
frequency/infrequency of + The frequency of the collisions indicates that we need to
noun reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
Incorrect:
The frequency about the collisions indicates that we need to
reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
The frequency as to the collisions indicates that we need to

reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
The frequency regarding the collisions indicates that we need

to reevaluate the traffic signals in this intersection.
138. From X to Y
from [location/amount] + to If you drive from New York to New Jersey, you will see the price
[location/amount] of a gallon of gasoline drop from $4.00 to $2.50.
Incorrect:
Note: Used to indicate a range,
If you drive out from New York into New Jersey, you will see the
a distance, or a change in price of a gallon of gasoline drop from $4.00 into $2.50.
amount.
If you drive out from New York over to New Jersey, you will see
the price of a gallon of gasoline drop down from $4.00 to
$2.50.
139. Hindered by
to be + hindered by + noun His advancement in the company has been hindered by his
lack of confidence, not by a lack of competence.
Incorrect:
His advancement in the company has been hindered with his
lack of confidence, not with a lack of competence.
His advancement in the company has been hindered out of his

lack of confidence, not from a lack of competence.
140. Inclined/disinclined to
inclined/disinclined to +
She was inclined to refuse the promotion because of the
base verb weekend hours, but the generous salary increase made her
think twice.
Incorrect:
She was inclined of refusing the promotion because of the
weekend hours, but the generous salary increase made her
think twice.
She was inclined for refusing the promotion because of the

think twice.
She was inclined at refusal of the promotion because of the

think twice.
141. Identical to
identical to + noun Fraternal twins are not identical to each other in physical
appearance or genetic makeup.
Incorrect:
Note: “Identical with” is also
considered correct on the EA. Fraternal twins are not identical of each other in physical
Fraternal twins are not identical in regard to each other in

physical appearance or genetic makeup.
Fraternal twins are not identical between each other in physical

142. Introduce to
introduce X to Y;
Nomadic tribes inadvertently introduced the invasive species of
introduce to + noun plant to the wetlands.
Incorrect:
plant to be in the wetlands.
Nomadic tribes inadvertently introduced the invasive species

inside the wetlands.

plant as being in the wetlands.
143. Inherit from
inherit X from Y;
He inherited the economic crisis from his predecessor but was
inherit from + noun nonetheless tasked with solving it.
Incorrect:
He inherited the economic crisis off his predecessor but was
nonetheless tasked with solving it.
He inherited the economic crisis out of his predecessor but

was nonetheless tasked with solving it.
He inherited the economic crisis by his predecessor but was

nonetheless tasked with solving it.
144. In an effort to
in an effort to + base verb In an effort to make her patients feel more comfortable, the
doctor had soothing music playing in the waiting room.
Incorrect:
In an effort of making her patients feel more comfortable, the
In an effort for making her patients feel more comfortable, the

In an effort in order to make her patients feel more comfortable,

the doctor had soothing music playing in the waiting room.
145. In awe of
[to be] + in awe of + noun Robert was in awe of his mentor’s accomplishments and hoped
to follow in her footsteps.
Note: In favor of also takes this Incorrect:

construction. Robert was in awe from his mentor’s accomplishments and
hoped to follow in her footsteps.
Robert was in awe about his mentor’s accomplishments and

Robert was in awe as to his mentor’s accomplishments and

146. In danger of
[to be] + in danger of + gerund Luke was in danger of failing the class if he didn’t do well on
the final exam.
Incorrect:
Luke was in danger to fail the class if he didn’t do well on the
final exam.
Luke was in danger with failing the class if he didn’t do well on

the final exam.
Luke was in danger for failing the class if he didn’t do well on

the final exam.
147. In order to
in order to + base verb The whistleblower asked the news program to blur his face and
disguise his voice in order to preserve his anonymity.
Incorrect:
The whistleblower asked the news program to blur his face and
disguise his voice in order for preserving his anonymity.
The whistleblower asked the news program to blur his face and
disguise his voice in order of preserving his anonymity.
148. Independent from
independent from + noun The three branches of government are independent from one
another.
Note: Used to indicate Incorrect:

autonomy or mean “separate The three branches of government are independent one
from.” another.
The three branches of government are independent to one

another.
The three branches of government are independent with one

another.
149. Independent of
independent of + noun The Supreme Court is supposed to uphold the Constitution,
independent of personal politics.
Note: Meaning “free from the Incorrect:

influence of” or “without The Supreme Court is supposed to uphold the Constitution,
consideration of.” independent as to personal politics.
The Supreme Court is supposed to uphold the Constitution,

independent in regard to personal politics.
The Supreme Court is supposed to uphold the Constitution,

independent personal politics.
150. Indifferent/indifference + to/towards
indifferent/indifference + His indifference towards the homeless makes his ostentatious
displays of wealth seem all the more tasteless.
to/towards + noun
His indifference to the plight of the homeless makes his
ostentatious displays of wealth seem all the more tasteless.
Incorrect:
His indifference from the homeless makes his ostentatious
His indifference for the plight of the homeless makes his

ostentatious displays of wealth seem all the more tasteless.
His indifference about the homeless makes his ostentatious

151. Infect with
infect with + noun Those who became infected with Ebola during the medical
mission were immediately quarantined and treated when they
returned to the United States.
Incorrect:
Those who became infected from Ebola during the medical
Those who became infected of Ebola during the medical

Those who became infected in Ebola during the medical

152. Instance of
instance of + noun The meetings revealed yet another instance of a quid pro quo
at the highest levels of government, and the public voiced its
disapproval in the voting booths.
Incorrect:
The meetings revealed yet another instance that was a quid
pro quo at the highest levels of government, and the public
voiced its disapproval in the voting booths.
The meetings revealed yet another instance of being a quid pro

quo at the highest levels of government, and the public voiced
its disapproval in the voting booths.
The meetings revealed yet another instance regarding a quid

pro quo at the highest levels of government, and the public
voiced its disapproval in the voting booths.
153. Instead of
noun + instead of + noun;
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of the train.
verb + instead of + verb-ing When she is running late, she takes the car instead of taking
the train.
Incorrect:
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of she takes
the train.
When she is running late, she takes the car instead of by the
train.
154. Instill in/into
instill X in/into Y;
The importance of volunteering in one’s community was
instill in/into + noun instilled in the children from a very young age.

instilled into the children from a very young age.
Note: The verb invest also
takes this construction. Incorrect:
instilled to the children from a very young age.

instilled inside the children from a very young age.
155. Intend/intent to
intend/intent to + base verb George intended to compliment his girlfriend on her new
haircut, but she thought he was teasing her.
Note: Verb may be conjugated Incorrect:

(base verb is never conjugated).
George intended of complimenting his girlfriend on her new
George intended at complimenting to his girlfriend on her new

156. Interaction of
interaction of X and Y;
The interaction of stearic acid and lye causes saponification.
interaction of X with Y;
Incorrect:
interaction of + plural noun
The interaction of stearic acid to lye causes saponification.
The interaction from stearic acid and lye causes saponification.
The interaction from stearic acid to lye causes saponification.
157. Introduce to
introduce X to Y At the dinner, Fredericka introduced her best friend to her new
boyfriend, but to her dismay, the two didn’t seem to get along.
Incorrect:
At the dinner, Fredericka introduced her best friend with her
new boyfriend, but to her dismay, the two didn’t seem to get
along.
At the dinner, Fredericka introduced between her best friend

and her new boyfriend, but to her dismay, the two didn’t seem
to get along.
158. Isolate from
isolate X from Y;
Randy’s awkwardness on the soccer field made him feel
isolated from + noun isolated from the rest of the team.
Incorrect:
Note: The verb separate also Randy’s awkwardness on the soccer field made him feel
takes this construction. isolated out of the rest of the team.

isolated apart from the rest of the team.

isolated in regards to the rest of the team.
159. Joined by
joined by + noun After the lead actor took his bows, he was joined on stage by
the rest of the cast for the standing ovation.
Incorrect:
After the lead actor took his bows, he was joined on stage
along with the rest of the cast for the standing ovation.
160. Judge by
judge by + noun;
M artin Luther King, Jr., famously hoped for a nation where his
judge X by Y children would not be judged by the color of their skin, but by
the content of their character.
Note: M eaning “evaluated on

Incorrect:
the basis of.” M artin Luther King, Jr., famously hoped for a nation where his
children would not be judged with the color of their skin, but
with the content of their character.
M artin Luther King, Jr., famously hoped for a nation where his
children would not be judged as to the color of their skin, but
as to the content of their character.
161. Just as ... so (too)
just as X, so (too) Y Just as the President leads the executive branch of the United
States, so the Prime Minister is the head of state in Canada.
Note: Used to compare similar Incorrect:

things (i.e., “in the same way Just like the President leads the executive branch of the United
that…”). States, so the Prime Minister is the head of state in Canada.
162. Known as
known as + noun/pronoun The serial killer known as Jack the Ripper was never identified
or captured by authorities.
Incorrect:
The serial killer known as being Jack the Ripper was never
identified or captured by authorities.
The serial killer known as that he was Jack the Ripper was
never identified or captured by authorities.
163. Known for
known for + noun Peyote is known for its hallucinogenic properties.
The ancient Polynesians are known for their navigation skills.

Incorrect:
The ancient Polynesians are known on their navigation skills.
The ancient Polynesians are known regarding their navigation

skills.
164. Known to be
known to be + Monkeys of many types are known to be quite playful.
noun/characteristic
Incorrect:
Monkeys of many types are known as being quite playful.
165. Lead to
lead to + noun; lead X to Y Catalonia’s recent declaration of its independence led to
worries from European Union leaders that Spain would respond
with a show of force in the region.
Incorrect:
Catalonia’s recent declaration of its independence led into
Catalonia’s recent declaration of its independence led for

166. Likely/unlikely to
likely to + base verb Rachel is likely to be accepted to a prestigious college because
her grades are top-notch.
Incorrect:
Rachel is likely of being accepted to a prestigious college
because her grades are top-notch.
Rachel is likely for being accepted to a prestigious college

Rachel is likely as being accepted to a prestigious college

167. Liken to
liken X to Y;
The poet likened the woman’s eyes to sapphires.
liken to + noun
Incorrect:
The poet likened the woman’s eyes to being sapphires.
The poet likened the woman’s eyes as sapphires.
The poet likened the woman’s eyes with sapphires.
168. Localized in
localized in + [place] Researchers found that incidences of the rare bone cancer
were localized in a town directly downwind of a factory that
produced pesticides.
Incorrect:
Researchers found that incidences of the rare bone cancer
were localized into a town directly downwind of a factory that
Researchers found that incidences of the rare bone cancer

were localized from a town directly downwind of a factory that
169. Manage to
manage to + base verb No matter how difficult things get, she always manages to land
on her feet.
Incorrect:
No matter how difficult things get, she always manages at
landing on her feet.
No matter how difficult things get, she always manages as to

landing on her feet.
170. Means of/to
means of + noun/gerund; While drinking chamomile tea may not be the most effective
means for + noun/gerund; means of treating insomnia, for now it is at least a means to
relax.
means to + noun/base verb
Incorrect:
Note: Think of means of or While drinking chamomile tea may not be the most effective
means for as “method of or for means into treating insomnia, for now it is at least a means into
doing (something).”
relaxing.

While drinking chamomile tea may not be the most effective

Think of means to as “way to
means in treating insomnia, for now it is at least a means at
achieve (some goal or
outcome).”
relaxing.
171. Mistake for
mistake X for Y;
Jane mistook Randall’s car keys for her own and had to walk
mistake for + noun back to the house.
Incorrect:
Jane mistook Randall’s car keys as being her own and had to
walk back to the house.
Jane mistook Randall’s car keys with her own and had to walk
back to the house.
172. Model after
model X after Y;
The solar-powered concept car is modeled after the American
model after + noun muscle cars of the 1960s.
Incorrect:
The solar-powered concept car is modeled as the American
muscle cars of the 1960s.
The solar-powered concept car is modeled as in the American

muscle cars of the 1960s.
The solar-powered concept car is modeled in regards to the

American muscle cars of the 1960s.
173. Move away from
move away from + The new party leaders are moving away from the more
noun/gerund regressive policy proposals of the past in an attempt to court
younger voters.
Incorrect:
The new party leaders are moving away of the more regressive
policy proposals of the past in an attempt to court younger
voters.
The new party leaders are moving away as to the more

regressive policy proposals of the past in an attempt to court
younger voters.
174. Native to / a native of
[person] is a native of [place];
The botanist, a native of Boston, specialized in the study of
[thing] is native to [place] medicinal plants native to the Amazon rainforest.
Incorrect:
The botanist, a native to Boston, specialized in the study of
medicinal plants native of the Amazon rainforest.
The botanist, native to Boston, specialized in the study of

medicinal plants native out of the Amazon rainforest.
175. Necessary to / need to
necessary/need to + base verb Although you need to work hard, it is still necessary to prioritize
your health.
Incorrect:
Although you need working hard, it is still necessary prioritizing
your health.
176. Need for
need for + noun The declining birth rate in Japan highlights the need for
creative solutions to economic instability and sporadic
unemployment among the nation’s young workers.
Incorrect:
The declining birth rate in Japan highlights the need as to
creative solutions to economic instability and sporadic
The declining birth rate in Japan highlights the need in regard

to creative solutions to economic instability and sporadic
177. Necessity of/for
the necessity of/for
The Paris Agreement emphasizes the necessity of transparency
+ noun/gerund among governments in order to mitigate global climate change.
Incorrect:
The Paris Agreement emphasizes the necessity to transparency
among governments in order to mitigate global climate change.
The Paris Agreement emphasizes the necessity in regard to

transparency among governments in order to mitigate global
climate change.
178. Not X but Y
not X but Y The loan came from not from his parents but from his cousin.
The meeting involved not a discussion but a shouting match.
Incorrect:
The loan came not from his parents but also from his cousin.
179. Not only ... but (also) / Not just ... but also
not only X but also Y Clint Eastwood is known not only as an actor but also as a
director.
Incorrect:
Clint Eastwood is known not only as an actor but as well as a
director.
Clint Eastwood is known not only as an actor and also as a

director.
180. Not so much as
not so much X as Y Among the younger generation of Americans, Al Gore is known
not so much for holding office as for raising awareness of
climate change.
Incorrect:
Among the younger generation of Americans, Al Gore is known
not so much for holding office but because of raising
awareness of climate change.
Among the younger generation of Americans, Al Gore is known

not that much for holding office as for raising awareness about
climate change.
181. Note/notice that
Note/notice that + clause Doctors noted that patients of similar ages still exhibited
disparate symptoms.
Incorrect:
Doctors noted about patients of similar ages still exhibited
disparate symptoms.
Doctors noted as to how patients of similar ages still exhibited

disparate symptoms.
182. Oblivious to
oblivious to + noun Selfish people are often oblivious to the concerns of others.
Incorrect:
Selfish people are often oblivious for the concerns of others.
Selfish people are often oblivious from the concerns of others.
Selfish people are often oblivious over the concerns of others.
183. Opportunity for/to
opportunity for + noun/pronoun;
The company retreat is an opportunity for everyone on the
opportunity to + base verb
team to get better acquainted, an opportunity for open
dialogue, and an opportunity to relax.
Incorrect:
The company retreat is an opportunity in everyone on the team
getting better acquainted, an opportunity in open dialogue, and
an opportunity in relaxing.
The company retreat is an opportunity as to everyone on the

team getting better acquainted, an opportunity as to open
dialogue, and an opportunity as to relaxing.
184. Opposed/opposition to
opposed/opposition to +
Opposition to the union’s demands is strong, although union
noun/gerund leaders are not opposed to compromise.
Incorrect:
Opposition at the union’s demands is strong, although union
leaders are not opposed at compromise.
185. Opposite of
X is the opposite of Y;
His statement to the newspaper conveyed the exact opposite of
opposite of + noun what he had told her in private the day before.
Incorrect:
His statement to the newspaper conveyed the exact opposite
from what he had told her in private the day before.
His statement to the newspaper conveyed the exact opposite

compared to what he had told her in private the day before.
186. Order to
order X to Y;
The judge ordered the court to quiet down.
order to + base verb
Incorrect:
The judge ordered the court quieting down.
The judge ordered the court as to quieting down.
The judge ordered the court that they should quiet down.
187. Ought to
ought to + base verb You ought to consider changing your diet if your heartburn
continues.
Incorrect:
You aught to consider changing your diet if your heartburn
continues.
You ought consider changing your diet if your heartburn

continues.
You ought should consider changing your diet if your heartburn

continues.
188. Out of
out of + noun/gerund The therapist advised the couple to focus on the issues that
were most important to them rather than making a big deal out
of minor annoyances.
Incorrect:
The therapist advised the couple to focus on the issues that
were most important to them rather than making a big deal out
from minor annoyances.
189. Originate from
originate from + Halloween originated from an ancient pagan festival.
[practice/belief/event/source]
Incorrect:
Halloween originated by an ancient pagan festival.
Note: “Originate from” means
“arise from.”
190. Originate in
originate in + The celebration known as All Hallows Eve originated in eighth
[location/time period] century Europe.
Incorrect:
Note: “Originate in” means The celebration known as All Hallows Eve originated on eighth
“start in.” century Europe
191. Originate with
originate with + The ancient pagan festival originated with the Celts.
[group/person/event]
Incorrect:
The ancient pagan festival originated because of the Celts.
Note: “Originate with” means
“begin with.”
192. Partake in
partake in + [activity] Let’s partake in the festivities.
Incorrect:
Note: P artake in means “take Let’s partake at the festivities.
part in.”
Let’s partake on the festivities.
Let’s partake to the festivities.
193. Participate/participant in
participate/participant in + noun As a show of support for the planned community garden, local
business owners participated in the cleanup of the vacant lot.
Incorrect:
As a show of support for the planned community garden, local
business owners participated into the cleanup of the vacant lot.
As a show of support for the planned community garden, local

business owners participated on the cleanup of the vacant lot.
194. Perceive as
perceive X as Y;
Sometime people perceive opportunities as threats.
perceive as + noun
Incorrect:
Sometime people perceive opportunities as being threats.
Sometime people perceive opportunities as if threats.
Sometime people perceive opportunities for threats.

195. Potential to
potential to + base verb Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential to
change the way we view consciousness.
Incorrect:
Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential of
changing the way we view consciousness.
Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential in

Advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential as to

196. Predispose to
predispose X to Y; Krista was careful about her diet because her family history
predisposed to + noun indicated that she was predisposed to diabetes.
Incorrect:
Krista was careful about her diet because her family history
indicated that she was predisposed for diabetes.
Krista was careful about her diet because her family history
indicated that she was predisposed in diabetes.
197. Prefer / preferable to
prefer X to Y;
Henry hated going to the dentist, but he knew that a regular
X is preferable to Y checkup was preferable to cavities.
Incorrect:
checkup was preferable as opposed to cavities.

checkup was preferable from cavities.

checkup was preferable compared to cavities.
198. Prejudice / prejudiced against
prejudice/prejudiced The housing discrimination lawsuit presented strong evidence
against + noun that the landlord was prejudiced against immigrants.
Incorrect:
The housing discrimination lawsuit presented strong evidence
that the landlord was prejudiced to immigrants.

that the landlord was prejudiced from immigrants.

that the landlord was prejudiced with immigrants.
199. Prevent from
prevent X from Y;
Only a narrow barrier prevented the water from entering
prevent from + gerund

the area.

Incorrect:
Only a narrow barrier prevented the water against entering
the area.
Only a narrow barrier prevented the water not to enter
the area.
Only a narrow barrier prevented the water to enter the area.
200. Prior to
prior to + noun/gerund You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior to
taking the on-road test.
Incorrect:
You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior of
You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior
with taking the on-road test.
You must pass the written exam for your driver’s license prior
201. Prized by
prized by + [person/group] The best quality figs were so prized by the Greeks that
exporting them was forbidden.
Incorrect:
The best quality figs were so prized with the Greeks that
The best quality figs were so prized to the Greeks that

202. Prohibit from
prohibit X from Y;
Regulations prohibited the group from entering the
prohibit from + gerund wildlife preserve.
Incorrect:
Regulations prohibited the group against entering the
wildlife preserve.
Regulations prohibited the group about entering the
wildlife preserve.
Regulations prohibited the group to enter the wildlife preserve.
203. Prone to
prone to + noun/gerund; The application was prone to crashes and needed to
prone to + base verb be updated.
Incorrect:
The application was prone of crashes and needed to
be updated.
The application was prone for crashes and needed to
be updated.
The application was prone in crashes and needed to
be updated.
204. Protect Against
protect X against Y;
In addition to a healthful diet, regular exercise helps protect
protect against + noun/gerund against heart disease.
Incorrect:
In addition to a healthful diet, regular exercise helps protect
away from heart disease.
In addition to a healthful diet, regular exercise helps protect as

to heart disease.
205. Prove that
prove that + noun clause; The defense attorney proved beyond a reasonable doubt that
prove to [someone] that + his client was innocent, and then revealed to reporters that he
would pursue a countercharge of defamation in civil court.
noun clause
Incorrect:
Note: The verbs demonstrate
The defense attorney proved beyond a reasonable doubt
and reveal also take these about his client being innocent, and then revealed to reporters
constructions. about his pursuing a countercharge of defamation in civil court.
206. Provide with
provide X with Y The venture capital provided the company with sufficient
funding to expand its operations into neighboring states.
Incorrect:
The venture capital provided the company in sufficient funding
to expand its operations into neighboring states.
The venture capital provided the company for sufficient

The venture capital provided the company to have sufficient

207. Range from ... to
range from X to Y Topics in the media literacy course ranged from source
evaluation to the influence of corporate advertisers.
Incorrect:
Topics in the media literacy course ranged starting from source
evaluation to the influence of corporate advertisers.
Topics in the media literacy course ranged from source

evaluation into the influence of corporate advertisers.
Topics in the media literacy course ranged from source

evaluation over to the influence of corporate advertisers.
208. Range of
range of + noun The manufacturer’s latest SUV models offer a range of optional
features.
Incorrect:
The manufacturer’s latest SUV models offer a range in optional
features.
The manufacturer’s latest SUV models offer a range as to

optional features.
209. Rather than
rather X than Y;
I would rather run outdoors than use a treadmill.
X rather than Y
Incorrect:
I would rather run outdoors instead of use a treadmill.
I would rather run outdoors as use a treadmill.
I would rather run outdoors compared with using a treadmill.

210. Receptive to
receptive to + noun Greg dreads his annual work evaluation because he has never
been receptive to criticism.
Incorrect:
Greg dreads his annual work evaluation because he has never
been receptive of criticism.

been receptive for criticism.

been receptive about criticism.
211. Refer/reference to
refer/reference to + noun If you refer to the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references to the Garden of Eden.
Incorrect:
If you refer off the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references off the Garden of Eden.
If you refer of the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references of the Garden of Eden.
If you refer from the closing chapter of the novel, you’ll find that
there are several references about the Garden of Eden.
212. Regard as
regard X as Y;
Some people regard him as the most skilled healer of his time.
regard as + noun
Incorrect:
Some people regard him as being the most skilled healer of
his time.
Some people regard him to be the most skilled healer of
his time.
Some people regard that he is the most skilled healer of
his time.
213. Relate/related to
relate/related to + noun Preferring video games to sports, Derek found it difficult to
relate to his brothers, even though he was related to them.
Incorrect:
Preferring video games to sports, Derek found it difficult to
relate between his brothers, even though he was related
between them.
Preferring video games to sports, Derek found it difficult to

relate as to his brothers, even though he was related as to
them.
214. Reluctant to
reluctant to + base verb Darla was reluctant to take off her shoes when she arrived at
the party, but the owner of the house insisted.
Incorrect:
Darla was reluctant against taking off her shoes when she
arrived at the party, but the owner of the house insisted.
Darla was reluctant of taking off her shoes when she arrived at
the party, but the owner of the house insisted.
215. Replace with
replace X with Y The baker replaced the chocolate chips with carob chips in the
vegan version of the cookies.
Incorrect:
The baker replaced the chocolate chips as carob chips in the
The baker replaced the chocolate chips into carob chips in the
216. Require that/to
require to + base verb;
The government requires public companies to follow the
require [someone] to + base verb guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not required
to do so.
Incorrect:
The government requires of public companies to follow the
guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not required
of doing so.
The government requires public companies as to following the

guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not required
as to doing so.
The government requires public companies regarding follow

the guidelines, whereas privately held companies are not
required regarding doing so.
217. Required/requirement of
required/requirement of + noun Having completed the application, John was wondering what
else the company would require of him.
Incorrect:
Having completed the application, John was wondering what
else the company would require by him.
Having completed the application, John was wondering what

else the company would require out of him.
218. Resemblance to/ resemblance between ... and
resemblance to + noun
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance to his ex,
resemblance between X and Y
whereas there is no resemblance between Ronan’s current
girlfriend and his previous one.
Incorrect:
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance compared
to his ex, whereas there is no resemblance of Ronan’s current
girlfriend and his previous one.
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance for his ex,

whereas there is no resemblance for Ronan’s current girlfriend
to his previous one.
Victor’s new girlfriend bears a striking resemblance against his

ex, whereas there is no resemblance between Ronan’s current
girlfriend to his previous one.
219. Resistant/resistance to
resistant/resistance to + Doctors worry that a new strain of streptococcus will be
noun/gerund resistant to current antibiotics.
Incorrect:
Doctors worry that a new strain of streptococcus will be
resistant of current antibiotics.
Doctors worry that a new strain of streptococcus will be

resistant for current antibiotics.
220. Respond/response to
respond/response to + The UN recommended diplomacy in response to the threat.
noun/gerund.
Incorrect:
The UN recommended diplomacy in response of the threat.
The UN recommended diplomacy in response for the threat.
The UN recommended diplomacy in response at the threat.

221. Responsible for/responsibility of
The school is responsible for a child’s intellectual education,
responsible for + noun
but the child’s moral education is the responsibility of the
responsibility of + noun
parents.
Incorrect:
The school is responsible of a child’s intellectual education, but
the child’s moral education is the responsibility for the parents.
The school is responsible as to a child’s intellectual education,

but the child’s moral education is the responsibility as to the
parents.
222. Responsibility to
responsibility to + base verb It is your responsibility to keep your room clean.
Incorrect:
It is your responsibility of keeping your room clean.
It is your responsibility about keeping your room clean.
It is your responsibility that you keep your room clean.
223. Restitution for/of
restitution for/of + noun The lawsuit sought restitution for financial losses and
emotional distress, but restitution of the stolen property would
not be possible.
Note: Restitution for something
means “compensation for”; Incorrect:
restitution of something (land, The lawsuit sought restitution of financial losses and emotional
property, etc.) means “giving distress, but restitution from the stolen property would not be
back of.”
possible.
The lawsuit sought restitution about financial losses and

emotional distress, but restitution about the stolen property
would not be possible.
224. Result from
result from + noun/gerund The school determined that the increase in student
performance had resulted from the change in the menu.
Incorrect:
The school determined that the increase in student
performance had resulted out from the change in the menu.

performance had resulted out of the change in the menu.
225. Result in
result from/in/of + noun/gerund The school determined that the change in the menu had
resulted in an increase in student performance.
Incorrect:
The school determined that the change in the menu had
resulted into an increase in student performance.
The school determined that the change in the menu had

resulted as an increase in student performance.
226. Result of
result of + noun/gerund The school determined that the increase in student
performance was a result of the change in the menu.
Incorrect:
performance was a result out of the change in the menu.

performance was a result to the change in the menu.
227. Rid of
rid X of Y;
He wanted to rid the brand of its elitist reputation, so he got rid
[get/be] rid of + noun of the outdated marketing strategy first.
Incorrect:
He wanted to rid the brand from its elitist reputation, so he got
rid from the outdated marketing strategy first.
228. Sacrifice for
sacrifice X for Y;
A recurring question has been how much freedom citizens are
sacrifice for + noun willing to sacrifice for security.
Incorrect:
willing to sacrifice into security.

willing to sacrifice against security.
229. Same as
X is the same as Y Do you believe that omitting the truth is the same as lying?
Incorrect:
Do you believe that omitting the truth is the same with lying?
Do you believe that omitting the truth is the same to lying?
230. Save for
save for + noun/pronoun Save for her best friend, Tina’s friends didn’t attend her gallery
exhibition.
Note: “The idiom “save for,” Incorrect:

when it appears in that exact Save of her best friend, Tina’s friends didn’t attend her gallery
construction, can mean exhibition.
“except for.”
Save other than her best friend, Tina’s friends didn’t attend her
gallery exhibition.
231. Save from
save X from Y In the film Armageddon, Bruce Willis’ character attempts to save
Earth from destruction by detonating a nuclear bomb inside an
approaching asteroid.
Note: The verb rescue also
takes this construction. Incorrect:
In the film Armageddon, Bruce Willis’ character attempts to save
Earth of destruction by detonating a nuclear bomb inside an

Earth against destruction by detonating a nuclear bomb inside
an approaching asteroid.

Earth out of destruction by detonating a nuclear bomb inside an
232. In search of
in search of + noun The settlers pack their wagons and set out West in search of
gold and fortune.
Incorrect:
The settlers pack their wagons and set out West in search for
gold and fortune.
The settlers pack their wagons and set out West to search of
gold and fortune.
The settlers pack their wagons and set out West in searching
gold and fortune.
233. Sensitive to
sensitive to + noun Justine was sensitive to her employees’ concerns about the
new auditing procedures, so she organized a group training
session.
Incorrect:
Justine was sensitive for her employees’ concerns about the
new auditing procedures, so she organized a group training
session.
234. Sequence of
sequence of + noun The sequence of events leading up to the crash was unclear.
Incorrect:
The sequence in events leading up to the crash was unclear.
The sequence to events leading up to the crash was unclear.
The sequence for events leading up to the crash was unclear.
235. Show that
show that + noun clause;
If you want to earn a promotion, you need to show your boss
show [someone] that +
that you can manage this project successfully.
noun clause Incorrect:

If you want to earn a promotion, you need to show your boss
about you can manage this project successfully.
236. Similar to
X is similar to Y Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar to that
of dogs.
Incorrect:
Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar with
that of dogs.
Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar as that

of dogs.
Research suggests that the intelligence of pigs is similar

compared to that of dogs.
237. So X as to Y
so adjective + as to base verb Her victory was so decisive as to arouse suspicions that she
was using performance-enhancing drugs.
Incorrect:
Her victory was so decisive as it aroused suspicions that she
Her victory was so decisive as arousing suspicions that she was

using performance-enhancing drugs.
Her victory was so decisive as in arousing suspicions that she

238. So X that Y
so adjective/adverb + that clause The earthquake was so powerful that the windows rattled.
Incorrect:
The earthquake was so powerful as the windows rattled.
239. Spend on
spend X on Y;
The company spent more money on training programs this
spend on + noun/gerund year than it has in any previous year.
Incorrect:
The company spent more money into training programs this
year than it has in any previous year.
240. Subject to
subject [someone] to [something]; The terms and conditions of this agreement are subject to
subject to + noun change without advance notification.
Incorrect:
The terms and conditions of this agreement are subject for
change without advance notification.
The terms and conditions of this agreement are subject to be

changed without advance notification.
241. Substitute for
substitute X for Y;
Make sure to reduce the measurement by half if you substitute
X is a substitute for Y honey for granulated sugar in this recipe.
Incorrect:
granulated sugar with honey in this recipe.

honey instead of granulated sugar in this recipe.

honey into granulated sugar in this recipe.
242. Suffer from
suffer from/with + noun Jackson claimed to suffer from numerous rare illnesses.
Jackson claimed to suffer with numerous rare illnesses.
Incorrect:
Jackson claimed to suffer of numerous rare illnesses.
After Jackson claimed to suffer as having numerous
rare illnesses.
243. Superior to
superior to + noun S erena thinks she is superior to her classmates because her
family is wealthy.
Incorrect:
S erena thinks she is superior than her classmates because her
family is wealthy.
S erena thinks she is superior over her classmates because her

family is wealthy.
S erena thinks she is superior from her classmates because her

family is wealthy.
244. Supplanted by
supplanted by + noun Many surgical procedures have been supplanted by minimally
invasive techniques.
Incorrect:
Many surgical procedures have been supplanted with
minimally invasive techniques.
Many surgical procedures have been supplanted in favor

minimally invasive techniques.
245. Suspicious of
suspicious of + noun As the threat of a coup intensified, the king became suspicious
of even his closest and most trusted advisors.
Incorrect:
As the threat of a coup intensified, the king became suspicious
as to even his closest and most trusted advisors.
246. Sympathy for
sympathy for + noun/pronoun The regulators had little sympathy for the people who tried to
manipulate the market and lost money as a result.
Incorrect:
The regulators had little sympathy about the people who tried
to manipulate the market and lost money as a result.
The regulators had little sympathy toward the people who tried
to manipulate the market and lost money as a result.
247. Sympathize with
sympathize with + noun/pronoun The congressman sympathized with those calling for
lower taxes.
Incorrect:
The congressman sympathized to those calling for lower taxes.
The congressman sympathized for those calling for
lower taxes.
The congressman sympathized about those calling for
lower taxes.
248. Take advantage of
take advantage of + noun/gerund The insurgents took advantage of the power vacuum.
Incorrect:
The insurgents took advantage out of the power vacuum.
The insurgents took advantage from the power vacuum.
249. Target at
target X at Y;
The early morning advertisements are targeted at senior
target at + noun/pronoun/gerund citizens, whereas the late-night advertisements have the 18 to
30 demographic in mind.
Incorrect:
The early morning advertisements are targeted for senior
citizens, whereas the late-night advertisements have the 18 to
The early morning advertisements are targeted around senior

citizens, whereas the late-night advertisements have the 18 to
250. Tend/tendency to
tend/tendency to + base verb Many people have a tendency to snack while they
watch television.
Note: Verb may be conjugated. Incorrect:

Many people have a tendency for snacking while they
watch television.
Many people have a tendency of snacking while they
watch television.
Many people have a tendency that they snack while they
watch television.
251. Think of as
think of X as Y;
Think of the EA as an opportunity to demonstrate
think of as + noun your skills.
Incorrect:
Note: Verb may be conjugated. Think about the EA as an opportunity to demonstrate
your skills.
Think of the EA as being an opportunity to demonstrate
your skills.
252. Thought
thought + noun; thought X Y Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought him eccentric.
Incorrect:
Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought him as eccentric.
Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought him as
being eccentric.
Many of the scientist’s neighbors thought about him
as eccentric.
253. Thought to be
thought to be X;
The painting was thought to be one of Picasso's early works but
thought X to be Y turned out to be a forgery.
Incorrect:
The painting was thought as being one of Picasso's early works
but turned out to be a forgery.
The painting was thought of as being one of Picasso's early

works but turned out to be a forgery.
The painting was thought about as being one of Picasso's early

works but turned out to be a forgery.
254. Tie to
tie to + noun; tie X to Y The 2008 collapse of the U.S. housing market was tied to
increased housing speculation and subprime lending in the
preceding years.
Incorrect:
The 2008 collapse of the U.S. housing market was tied toward
increased housing speculation and subprime lending in the
preceding years.
The 2008 collapse of the U.S. housing market was tied along
with increased housing speculation and subprime lending in
the preceding years.
255. Tinker with
tinker with + noun These days, my grandfather spends most of his time tinkering
with his ham radios in the garage.
Note: The verb tamper also Incorrect:

takes this construction. These days, my grandfather spends most of his time tinkering in
his ham radios in the garage.
These days, my grandfather spends most of his time tinkering

on his ham radios in the garage.
256. Tolerant of
tolerant of + noun The longer we remain tolerant of corruption in politics, the
bigger the problem will become.
Incorrect:
The longer we remain tolerant about corruption in politics, the
The longer we remain tolerant to corruption in politics, the

The longer we remain tolerant at corruption in politics, the

257. Transmit to
transmit X to Y Cellular phones transmit radio waves to cell towers.
Incorrect:
Cellular phones transmit radio waves at cell towers
Cellular phones transmit radio waves into cell towers.
258. Type of
type of + noun With so many different types of cereal available, consumers
often have trouble making healthful choices.
Incorrect:
With so many different types in cereal available, consumers
With so many different types for cereal available, consumers

259. Use as
use X as Y;
Rose used the broken door as a life raft and floated to safety.
use as + noun
Incorrect:
Rose used the broken door to be a life raft and floated
to safety.
260. Used to
used to + noun/gerund
If you’re not used to working long hours, you’ll find this job
used to + base verb
difficult; I know because I used to be in your position.
Incorrect:
If you’re not use to working long hours, you’ll find this job
difficult; I know because I use to be in your position.
261. In violation of
in violation of + noun In violation of the ceasefire, soldiers stationed along the border
launched an incursion into a nearby village.
Incorrect:
By violation of the ceasefire, soldiers stationed along the
border launched an incursion into a nearby village.
262. Vote for
vote for + noun A common concern in the United States is that voting for a
third-party candidate is tantamount to wasting one’s vote.
Incorrect:
A common concern in the United States is that voting a
third-party candidate is tantamount to wasting one’s vote.
263. Way to ... is to
[the] way to + base verb + is to + The best way to fight racism is to increase education and
base verb understanding.
Incorrect:
The best way in regards to fighting racism is to increase
education and understanding.
264. Whether (or not)
whether + noun clause;
Regardless of whether you are in the mood to study for the
whether X or Y;
exam, you should.
whether or not X, Y Incorrect:

Regardless of whether or not you are in the mood to study for
the exam, you should.
Note: On the EA, you should
not pair “whether” with “or not” Regardless of if you are in the mood to study for the exam, you
unless absolutely necessary to should.
make clear that there are two
alternative scenarios. If a
sentence still makes perfect
sense without “or not,” then “or
not” is incorrect.
265. Willing/unwilling to
willing/unwilling to + base verb The company was willing to take steps to ensure worker safety.
Incorrect:
The company was willing about taking steps to ensure
worker safety.
266. Worry about
worry about + noun/gerund The study found that many students worry excessively about
fitting in.
Incorrect:
The study found that many students worry excessively over
fitting in.
The study found that many students worry excessively on
fitting in.

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EA® Idioms Guide

EA® Idioms Master List

The group was arranged in the photo according of height.

The group was arranged in the photo according by height.

The group was arranged in the photo according for height.

Note: Means “provide an Incorrect:

explanation for” or “represent.”

He couldn’t account as to his whereabouts on the night of the

He couldn’t account as for his whereabouts on the night of the

Note: This is a grammatically Incorrect:

The bank foreclosed on the home on the account of the

owner’s upside-down mortgage.

Dora’s sister of grand larceny.

followed by “being” and then a Dora’s sister for grand larceny.

noun or adjective (e.g., accused

being lazy). Dora’s sister with grand larceny.

Dora was accused about petty theft, but the prosecutor

accused Dora’s sister over grand larceny.

11. Acquaint with

acquaint with + noun;

getting better acquainted with them before they entrusted her

getting better acquainted of them before they entrusted her for

getting better acquainted about them before they entrusted her

about the project.

getting better acquainted regarding them before they entrusted

her regarding the project.

After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced their

After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced with

After the workers went on strike, the company acquiesced at

Con struction: Correct:

difficult time adapting to life without children in the house.

difficult time adapting into life without children in the house.

When their daughters went off to college, the couple had a

difficult time adapting with life without children in the house.

When their daughters went off to college, the couple had a

difficult time adapting about life without children in the house.

14. Adapted for

Note: Means “made suitable Incorrect:

The curriculum was adapted around students who spoke

had to leave the theater.

had to leave the theater.

He was deeply affected about the combat scenes in the film

and had to leave the theater.

He was deeply affected of the combat scenes in the film and

had to leave the theater.

16. Afflicted with / by

He had agreed as to the terms in writing, so his lawsuit against

He had agreed over the terms in writing, so his lawsuit against

19. Agree / disagree with

The department allocated the government grant as enhanced

The department allocated the government grant into enhanced

22. Allow for

Note: Allow X for Y means to Incorrect:

Gina’s parents didn’t allow in her going out on Saturday night,

In Josh’s county, there was no alternative from his internet

In Josh’s county, there was no alternative in comparison to his

The negotiations never amounted as a vote because the

The negotiations never amounted into a vote because the

The pretentious artist claimed that creating the sculpture was

The pretentious artist claimed that creating the sculpture was

27. Analogy to/with

The teacher explained the complex hierarchy of the royal court

29. Angry about