Master confusing words with ease
Run amok vs. Run amuck
Run amok
/rʌn əˈmɒk /Examples:
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Run amuck
/rʌn əˈmʌk/Examples:
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Run amok and run amuck are two different spellings of the same phrase, but amok is the more traditional spelling, originating from a Malay word.
- The word amok is the authentic version, whereas amuck evolved in American English as an alternative spelling.
- Both versions are used to mean the same thing, but run amok is more commonly accepted in written English today.
- Remember that amok can be related to the word amoklauf, often used in German, with similar meaning.
- The phrase originally had meanings related to violent disruption and has historical context with warriors in Southeast Asia.
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