Words that are related but have a different word form and meaning:

These groups contain words that have similar meanings and spellings but are used in different ways and have different word forms.  I have indicated the word form and added sentences which use the words both correctly and incorrectly.

For definitions for each word, link to this dictionary:

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
http://12.129.203.36/home.htm

If any of these groups of words are confusing, click on the group to see examples of their correct and incorrect use.

Economics, economy, economic...

Finance, finances, financial...

Policy,political, policies...

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	Economics (n., adj.)
	Economy (n., adj.)…
	Economical (adj.)
	Economic (adj.)
	Economically (adv.)

Correct

Economics is one of the social sciences; it focuses on the study of economic institutions, theory and policy..

Note: Economics in this example is singular meaning a body of thought or a subject of study. 
Economics can also be plural. 
Example: The economics behind the current recession are complicated.  (In this case, economics  means several different explanations are possible.)

The Federal Reserve System is an important economic institution in the United States.

The U.S. economy is experiencing higher rates of unemployment than last year. 

Eva is being economical when she looks for lower prices for her clothes. 

Eva shops very economically because she looks for the lowest prices.

Incorrect

The economics institutions of the U.S. are important topics of study. 

The economy course was already full when I enrolled. 

I am taking an economical course this semester.

 I want to study economic this semester.

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	Finance (n., v., adj.)
	Finances (n.)…
	Financial (adj.)

Correct

I am taking a Business Finance course at CCSF next fall.

I will finance my education with scholarships, loans, and income from my job.

My personal finances depend upon my income.

My income is low, so I qualify for financial aid this semester.

Incorrect

I am enjoying my financial course at CCSF.

My finances report was approved by my supervisor.

My application for finance aid was rejected because I did complete the form.

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	Political (adj.)
	Politicize (v.)
	Police (v., n., adj.)
	Politics (n.)
	Policy (n., adj.)
	Policies (n.)

Correct

Political science is the study of politics, political institutions, and public policy.

When public policies directly affect people, they often become politicized, and they become more involved in politics.

City College has its own police force.

Incorrect

Elizabeth is very  politics because she is active in the policies campaign for mayor.

The Congress is a politics institution.

Anna doesn't agree with the political of the Bush Administration.

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Do you have other words which sometimes confuse you?  If so, email me: dorr@ccsf.edu