Elicit and Illicit may sound the same when spoken but they have different spelling and meaning. Be careful when writing these words.
elicit: verb; to obtain, coax out, draw out, prompt
I could not elicit a response from her.
illicit: adjective; unlawful, forbidden, illegal
He is in jail for smuggling illicit drugs into the country.
“Proved" or "proven" is another one of those sets of words journalists, writers and speakers mix up constantly. While the use or should I say the misuse of these two words will not greatly affect the lives of most people, it's the responsibility of aspiring writers and professional writers, however, to know the difference.
Understand that both "proved and proven" are noted by some dictionaries as past participles of "prove."
Professional writers take a more particular view of the use of these words. But you can use whichever word sounds and works the best for you, Just be sure to use "proven" for the adjectives.
Example: "She used a proven method."
Know that "proved" is the current choice for the past participle of the verb "prove."
An example: The child has proved his strengths in numbers.
You may notice that journalist use "proven" as an adjective in journalism always.
"Proven" is not used as a past participle in journalism.
Apply the rules for predicate adjective in a linking verb construction as well by using "proven." Use "proven" as an adjective that modifies another word as in the following example: The child's ability to add has been proven. "Proven" modifies "ability;" it is not a part of the verb.
Be a careful writer when using "proved" and/or "proven" if you are a journalist where rules reign. But for most of us, we can use either word as a past participle if it applies. But remember to use "proven" as the adjective in all cases, just to be on the safe side.
Lose /verb/ unable to find, be deprived of or cease to have
Loose is a homonym and it can be used as a verb or an adjective.
Loose /adjective/ not tight,free from bounds or restraints.
Loose /verb/ to let go, release
Did you lose your necklace?
It was a loose fitting vest.
Let the dogs loose to track the fox.
