avoid confusion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "avoid confusion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of clarifying something rather than creating misunderstanding. For example: "We must take care to clearly explain the assignment requirements in order to avoid confusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

helped to avoid confusion.

The New York Times

It is to avoid confusion.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Establish bylaws to avoid confusion.

The New York Times

We want to avoid confusion".

The New York Times

The progression was staggered to avoid confusion.

The New Yorker

They have now been removed to avoid confusion".

Independent

This was done "to avoid confusion," the association said.

The New York Times

Essentially, the Jets have to avoid confusion on defense.

The New York Times - Sports

To avoid confusion, why not air NW another time?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Sort out your destination in advance to avoid confusion.

The Guardian - Travel

To avoid confusion, we've moved the settings button.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When dealing with technical or complex topics, define key terms early on to "avoid confusion" later in the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly complex sentence structures in an attempt to sound intelligent. This can ironically create the very "confusion" you're trying to avoid.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "avoid confusion" primarily functions as a purpose clause, often introduced by "to" or "in order to". This construction indicates the reason or intention behind an action, aiming to prevent misunderstanding or ambiguity. As Ludwig AI shows, it connects an action with its desired outcome of clarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

29%

Science

29%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "avoid confusion" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to express the purpose of preventing misunderstanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly news, scientific, and general writing. When using this phrase, remember that clarity and simplicity are key. By focusing on direct language and clear explanations, you can effectively "avoid confusion" and ensure your message is easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prevent misunderstanding

Focuses on preventing the state of misunderstanding rather than the act of confusing.

ensure clarity

Emphasizes the positive aspect of making something clear, rather than avoiding its opposite.

obviate ambiguity

Uses a more formal and technical term for avoiding ambiguity.

forestall misunderstanding

Suggests taking action in advance to prevent a misunderstanding from happening.

preclude ambiguity

Implies making ambiguity impossible.

clarify matters

Highlights the action of making things clear and understandable.

remove ambiguity

Focuses on eliminating existing ambiguity.

eliminate doubt

Aims to dispel uncertainty or doubt.

resolve uncertainty

Addresses the need to settle or clear up any uncertainty.

promote understanding

Focuses on the positive action of fostering understanding, rather than averting confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "avoid confusion" in a sentence?

You can use "avoid confusion" in sentences like: "To avoid confusion, please read the instructions carefully," or "The progression was staggered to avoid confusion."

What are some alternative phrases to "avoid confusion"?

Some alternative phrases to "avoid confusion" include "prevent misunderstanding", "ensure clarity", or "obviate ambiguity".

What is the best way to "avoid confusion" in technical writing?

In technical writing, the best way to "avoid confusion" is to define all terms clearly, use consistent terminology, and provide examples to illustrate complex concepts.

When should I use "avoid confusion" in my writing?

Use "avoid confusion" when you want to emphasize the importance of being clear and preventing misunderstandings. It's particularly useful in instructions, explanations, and technical documents.