Outward is preferred in American usage.
Category: Confusing Words
Outmost vs Upmost vs Utmost
Outmost means outermost or farthest out. Upmost is from the word uppermost and should not be used in American English. Utmost usually means to the greatest degree or intensity.
Difference between Ostensibly and Ostentatiously
Ostensibly means apparently, evidently, or presumably. It’s a story ostensibly for kids, but more appreciated by adults. Ostentatiously is an adverb meaning showy or pretentious. They rarely dress ostentatiously and never flaunt their wealth.
Difference between Oscillate and Osculate
Oscillate means to swing back and forth or to be indecisive. The speed oscillated between 280 rpm and 600 rpm. His political career oscillated between distinction and scandal. Osculate means to kiss or to touch. His chief political skill was osculating the infants of voters.
Difference between Orient and Orientate
Orient is the preferred word. We have plenty of time to orient ourselves to the project.
Difference between Ordinance and Ordnance
Ordinance refers to a decree, law, or regulation. Commissioners are discussing an ordinance to improve the park. Ordnance refers to military equipment or weapons. The technology can help find unexploded ordnance.
Difference between Oral and Verbal
Oral and verbal both refer to things spoken; verbal also refers to things written. Graduate students are required to do an oral report this year. Writer Albert M. Joseph has a verbal mastery of our language.
Difference between Oppress and Repress
Oppress means to tyrannize or treat people in a cruel way. Their goal is to oppress the people of other countries. Repress means to restrain, subdue, or keep under control. Never try not to repress your feelings of joy and happiness.
Difference between Ophthalmologist, Optician and Optometrist
An ophthalmologist is an M.D. who specializes in treating eye diseases. An optician makes and sells glasses and other optical equipment. An optometrist examines one’s vision and prescribes eye glasses.
Difference between Opaque, Translucent and Transparent
Opaque means no light passing through. The opaque camera cover protected the film. Translucent means light passes through but without clarity. Translucent bond paper is often used for tracing. Transparent means light passes through with clarity. The transparent lid allowed Mom to see the leftovers inside.
Difference between Onward and Onwards
Onward is preferred in American usage.
Difference between One of the best and One of the only
Avoid these contradictions. (There can only be one best and one only, so saying one of the best or only doesn’t make sense.)