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Spelling: –ce vs. –se

It is easy to get confused between nouns and verbs that are spelled almost identically. However, here is a simple rule that will help you with two sound-alike pairs of words.

Rule: Generally, the verb form will be spelled with the “s” and the noun with the “c.”

Examples:
advise vs. advice
devise vs. device

Example: She gave us good advice.
Noun meaning recommendation.

Example: Please advise us of our options.
Verb meaning the act of giving a recommendation.

To learn more about confusing words and homonyms, click here.

Pop Quiz

Choose the correct word in the sentences below.

1. They have to device/devise a foolproof plan to make sure she is surprised on her birthday.

2. The dentist has a new device/devise for cleaning teeth.

3. Whoever devised/deviced this dental instrument must not have had very sensitive teeth.

4. I would advice/advise you to allow the hygienist to try it on a few teeth before committing to it.

5. No amount of advice/advise can substitute for experience.

Pop Quiz Answers

1. They have to devise a foolproof plan to make sure she is surprised on her birthday.

2. The dentist has a new device for cleaning teeth.

3. Whoever devised this dental instrument must not have had very sensitive teeth.

4. I would advise you to allow the hygienist to try it on a few teeth before committing to it.

5. No amount of advice can substitute for experience.

Posted on Tuesday, October 19th, 2010 at 3:49 pm

2 Comments

2 Responses to “Spelling: –ce vs. –se”

  1. Natasha says:
    August 18, 2011 at 4:06 pm

    Thank you for the advice! English being my second language I’ve always had trouble with this particular rule and now I know!!! Thank you again!

    Reply

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