Versus

Simile vs. Metaphor

Nouns, Prepositions, Versus

Many people confuse these two words.

Problem:
These two nouns are not synonyms.

Explanation:
A simile is a comparison of two unlike things using “like” or “as”.

The origin of the word “simile” is a Latin noun that means likeness.

A metaphor is a comparison that does not use “like” or “as”.

The origin of the word “metaphor” is a Greek verb that means to transfer.

So another way to think of a metaphor is that it acts like a symbol for something else.

Solution:
A comparison is a simile when it involve “like” or “as”; a metaphor never involves either of these prepositions.

“Cache” vs. “Cachet”

Common English Blunders, Nouns, Versus

I often hear one of these words spoken with the pronunciation of the other word.

Problem:
The nouns “cache” and “cachet” are not synonyms and should not be pronounced in the same way.

Explanation:
The noun “cache” means a hidden storage space and is pronounced just as “cash” is pronounced. The French verb “cacher” — which means to hide — is the origin of this noun.

The noun “cachet” means an official seal and is pronounced just as “sashay” is pronounced.

The noun “cache” is accurately used in the field of information technology, for example, to refer to a special portion of computer memory, and it’s accurately used in the military to refer to where weapons are hidden by the enemy.

The noun “cachet” is accurately used in the fashion industry, for example, when describing attractive clothing (e.g., “a dress with the cachet of a top designer”).

Speakers most often seem to get into trouble with these two words when they pronounce “cache” in the way that “cachet” should be pronounced.

Solution:
Use “cache” (rhymes with “cash”) when referring to a store of something. Use “cachet” (rhymes with “sashay”) when referring to something that has a recognized endorsement.

“Capital” vs. “Capitol”

Common English Blunders, Nouns, Versus

I often see these two words interchanged.

Problem:
The nouns “capital” and “capitol” are not synonyms.

Explanation:
The noun “capital” is from the Latin word “caput” and means head of a column or pillar.

The noun “capitol” is from the highest hill in Rome: Capitoline Hill.

The similarity between these two nouns is completely coincidental, according to some linguists.

Solution:
Use the noun “capital” to refer to a city that is an official seat of government or to refer to the wealth of an individual, group, or business. Use the noun “capitol” to refer to a building, or complex of buildings, occupied by a legislature. (Use “Capitol” to refer to the architectural structure in Washington, DC, where the United States Congress meets.)