Comprise vs Compose: What’s the Difference?

Quick answer: Use comprise when the whole includes its parts: “The committee comprises five members.” Use compose when the parts make up the whole: “Five members compose the committee.” Both can also be written with “is composed of” (consists of). “Is comprised of” is very common, but many editors still advise against it. Comprise vs … Read more

Accel vs Excel: What’s the Difference?

Quick answer: Excel is a real verb meaning to be exceptionally good at something: “She excels at math.” Accel is not a standard word. It is a short form of accelerando in music (gradually speed up) or a casual clipping of acceleration. With capital letters, Excel is Microsoft’s spreadsheet program and Accel is a venture … Read more

Can Not or Cannot: What’s the Difference?

Quick answer: Cannot (one word) is the standard spelling in almost every sentence: “You cannot park here.” Use can not (two words) only when “not” belongs to another phrase, such as “not only,” or when you want to stress a choice: “You can not only save time but also money.” Can Not or Cannot Quiz: … Read more

To Fast or Too Fast: What’s the Difference?

Quick answer: Use too fast when something is moving faster than is safe, wanted or possible: “You’re driving too fast.” Use to fast only when “to” belongs to the verb fast, meaning to go without food: “I plan to fast on Sunday.” If you mean “excessively,” you want too. To Fast or Too Fast Quiz: … Read more