John’s English Blog

Many English verbs which end in -ence have a Latin origin. They will be familiar if you speak a Latin language. Beware of false friends!

For example the English word difference.
The difference between a tortoise and a turtle is that a turtle can swim.

• Spanish - diferencia
  
• Italian - differenza
  
• French - différence
  
• Valencian - diferència
  

Many words follow this pattern:

Adolescence
During adolescence teenagers often have violent mood swings.

Audience
The audience clapped at the end of the play.

Coincidence
What a coincidence. I didn’t expect to see you here.

Complete these sentences!

1. Wages fell as a consequence of the global financial crisis.
2. Children must learn independence.
3. During their correspondence Ada Lovelace wrote 29 letters to Charles Babbage.
4. Is artificial intelligence a danger?
5. Border Collies are famous for their obedience.
6. There is a divergence between his promises and the possible.
7. I can’t hear you. There’s too much interference.
8. 650 people attended The Flat Earth International conference in Denver.
9. Learners must demonstrate competence in English.
10. The existence of the Loch Ness Monster has not been proven.
11. ‘Princess Margaret presented the certificate in the presence of Lady Astor.’
12. The equivalence of £1 and 100p is obvious.
13. It’s important to cite your reference in academic writing.
14. The essence of language is communication.
15. Teachings requires patience.
16. science is the study of the physical world.
17. “Nothing good ever comes of violence” Martin Luther

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