Commonly misused/misspelled words and phrases (Part 12)

It's amazing just how many common words are frequently misused not only by casual writers, but sometimes even by professionals. Here are some more:

It’s vs. its

Wrong: Its over here.
Right: It’s over here.

It’s means “it is,” while its denotes ownership, as in “The dog? We’re looking for its owner.” They’re easy enough to keep straight. Ask yourself, “Do I mean ‘it is’ here?” If not, use its.

Alright vs. all right

Wrong: Are you feeling alright?
Right: Are you feeling all right?

Alright is a nonstandard spelling and shouldn’t be used—ever (“The Who” song, The Kids are Alright, notwithstanding). All right is the correct spelling.

There are plenty more where these came from. Stay tuned.

Mark.