Baited-Bated | Commonly Confused Words
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Baited vs. Bated

Baited

To entice, lure or deliberately provoke someone or something.

Examples:

The trap was cleverly baited with a fresh piece of fish.His curiosity was baited by the promise of a hidden treasure.She baited her opponent with sharp and witty remarks.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Bated

/ˈbeɪtəd/
Held back or restrained, usually referring to breath or excitement

Examples:

He waited bated for the final announcement.With bated courage, she ventured into the dark cave.His mind was bated with thoughts of the unknown horizon.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Baited has the word bait in it, like fishing bait.
  • Bated is short for abated, meaning to pause or diminish.
  • When you bait a hook, you are preparing to catch fish.
  • Bated is often used with breath, indicating someone is holding their breath due to suspense.
  • Remember bait has to do with traps or lures, while bated involves waiting or reduction.
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