As examples–
'Left' can mean remaining or departed. When the girls left the room, the boys were left behind.
'Trim' can either mean adding or removing something. I trim my hat with flowers, but trim the hedge with shears.
'Refrain' is either to stop or repeat depending on the context. I might sing the refrain, or refrain from singing. (If you're nearby, you'll prefer the latter.)
Can you think of more examples?
Didn't know that word. Thanks! And I have a hat just like that minus the flowers!
ReplyDeleteDoes yours smell like a summer cornfield too, Lindsay?
DeleteHi Patsy - interesting ... I had to cheat ... so I'll go with variety: a particular type, or many types ... but a great word to think about - and then the examples - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteIt's not cheating, Hilary - it's research!
DeleteCleave is one that has always bugged me. Does it mean cut apart or stick together? Make up your mind, word.
ReplyDeleteGood example!
DeleteCan't think of any others at the moment. Then again, it's really early here...
ReplyDeleteI'll let you off then, Alex.
DeleteI think Im right to turn right here.
ReplyDeleteI hope you're right, otherwise going right will mean going wrong.
DeleteAfter dusting the kitchen bench with flour, I had to dust the window sill to remove the flour.
ReplyDeleteAnd the rest of the kitchen, when I do it.
Deleteha
ReplyDeleteinteresting
It's a fun game, Mac.
DeleteThanks, Patsy. One I really don't know. I'll fit it into my next chapter.
ReplyDeleteBtw, really like the hat. Can I borrow it next time I go to a wedding, please?
ReplyDeleteI've worn it to a couple of weddings myself, Rosemary. It goes with just about anything, if I add the right colour flowers.
DeleteIsn't it fascinating that some words can mean the opposite? Yeah, English ins't confusing at all. lol
ReplyDeleteI really don't know why we stand for such madness, Donna.
DeleteIf you'd ask me if that was possible, I would have denied it. Very cool.
ReplyDeleteI'm so pleased to have managed the apparently impossible!
Delete