Confusable Words

English is full of contradictions and inconsistencies. One word can have different meanings and sometimes these meanings are totally opposite. There are many such words in the English language.
“Sanction” has opposite meanings:
1. to allow
2. to prohibit
The same goes for “oversight”:
1. watchful care
2. lack of attention
Thanks for nothing, English. (:
In cases like this, we can find out the exact meaning if we focus on the context.
Let's talk about another confusing pair, which is as follows:
PRESCRIBE vs. PROSCRIBE

Watch out! Do not confuse these two words. "Prescribe" means to recommend something to someone, but "proscribe" has the totally opposite meaning, which is to forbid. Many people confuse these two words because "pro" usually has a positive function.

Examples:

• The physician prescribed some antibiotics to Ahmad.
• In Pakistan, capital punishment is prescribed for murderers.
• Trade of illegal drugs is proscribed in civilized countries.
• Muhammad Amir was sentenced for using proscribed medicines.

Politic vs. Political vs. Politics

The adjective "politic" means wise and showing the ability to make the right decisions.

• I think it's not politic to ask a question when your teacher is angry.

The adjective "political" means connected or related to politics.

• 
  

  Political reforms have led to major structural changes in the economy.

"Politics" means the activities of the government, members of law-making organizations or people who try to influence the way a country is governed.

• Mr. Imran is very active in politics.

"Politics" also means the relationships within a group or organization which allow particular people to have power over others.

• I don't like to get involved in office politics.

Note: There are many words in English that are plural in form, yet take a singular verb. The same goes for "politics." It takes a singular verb when used to mean the art or science of governing or political science. However, in other senses, it can take either a sing. or pl. verb. Many other nouns that end in -ics behave the same way.