False friends 2
False friends are certain English "tricky" words that we think mean the same as similar words in Czech, but
the meaning is different. The confusion might be because of a chance similarity in spelling.
1. |
camping |
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It is often confused with: camp-site |
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We like to go camping in Croatia. |
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We found a lovely camp-site there to put up our tent. |
2. |
to be boring |
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It is often confused with: to be bored |
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If you bore others it means you are boring. |
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That party was terrible. I was bored. |
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Are you bored? We hope you aren't. |
3. |
sympathetic |
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It is often confused with: nice |
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The police were very sympathetic to my complaint about the noise but said they could do nothing about it. |
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Peter is usually rather impatient and unfriendly, but I must say he was very sympathetic when I told him about my family problems. |
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She is a very nice little girl. Everyone likes her. |
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He threw a nice party. I enjoyed it. |
4. |
actual (real, topical) |
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It is often confused with: present (now, current) |
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I've known many rich men, but he is the only actual millionaire I've met. |
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Bush and Reagan are former American Presidents. Who is the present one? |
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He used to work in advertising, but his present job is in journalism. |
5. |
adequate - náležitý or sufficient |
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It is often confused with: suitable - vhodný or convenient |
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Rice-growing can only be successful if there is adequate rainfall. |
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Make sure you have adequate money for the trip. 5000 Crowns should be enough. |
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I'll come at eight, or any other suitable time you suggest. |
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Do you think the dress is suitable for tonight's party, or is it too formal? |
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