Top 130 Common Mistakes in English ESL Students Make

Many ESL students often look for a list of the most common mistakes in English to help them correct their errors.

As an ESL teacher, having such a list can be really helpful. You can use examples from this list in your lesson plans to make your lessons more interesting and relatable.

Knowing these common mistakes also helps you understand the areas where students often struggle. This way, you can prepare your lessons to focus on those specific areas.

I’ve put together a list of 130 common mistakes in English, divided into 13 categories. They include grammar, vocabulary, word order, prepositions, tenses, articles, idiomatic expressions, punctuation, cultural context, register and formality, collocations, pronunciation, and spelling.

Each category has 10 common mistakes that ESL students often make. For each mistake, I’ve provided both the incorrect version and the correct version, so it’s easier for you and your students to understand.

Keep reading to explore the full list and improve your teaching and your students’ English skills!

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Grammar

1. Subject-Verb Agreement

In English, the verb must match the subject. If the subject is singular, the verb should be singular. If the subject is plural, the verb should be plural.

Mistake: He go to school every day.
👉 “Go” is incorrect because “he” is singular.

Correction: He goes to school every day.
👉 The verb “goes” matches the singular subject “he.”

2. Incorrect Verb Tense

Use the correct verb tense to show when something happens.

Mistake: I seen her yesterday.
👉 “Seen” is incorrect because it needs a helping verb like “have” or “had.”

Correction: I saw her yesterday.
👉 Use “saw” because it’s the simple past tense.

3. Missing Auxiliary Verbs

Auxiliary verbs like “do,” “be,” or “have” are often required in questions or negatives.

Mistake: Where he lives?
👉 “He lives” is incorrect in a question without the auxiliary verb.

Correction: Where does he live?
👉 Add “does” to form the correct question.

4. Wrong Word Order in Questions

Questions need the subject and auxiliary verb in the correct order.

Mistake: What she is doing?
👉 “She is” is in the wrong order for a question.

Correction: What is she doing?
👉 Move “is” before “she” to form the correct question.

5. Using Double Negatives

Two negatives in a sentence cancel each other out and make the meaning unclear.

Mistake: I don’t know nothing about it.
👉 “Nothing” makes the sentence a double negative.

Correction: I don’t know anything about it.
👉 Replace “nothing” with “anything.”

6. Incorrect Use of Plural Nouns

Some nouns are uncountable and don’t need a plural form.

Mistake: I have some great advices for you.
👉 “Advices” is incorrect because “advice” is uncountable.

Correction: I have some great advice for you.
👉 Use “advice” without adding an “s.”

7. Omitting Articles

Articles like “a,” “an,” and “the” are important for proper sentences.

Mistake: I saw dog in the park.
👉 “Dog” needs an article before it.

Correction: I saw a dog in the park.
👉 Add “a” to make the sentence correct.

8. Misusing Comparatives and Superlatives

Comparatives compare two things, while superlatives compare more than two.

Mistake: She is the more smarter student in class.
👉 “More smarter” is incorrect because “smarter” already shows comparison.

Correction: She is the smartest student in class.
👉 Use “smartest” for the superlative form.

9. Improper Use of Prepositions

Prepositions must fit the verb and context.

Mistake: She is good in math.
👉 “In” is incorrect with the adjective “good.”

Correction: She is good at math.
👉 Use “at” for the correct collocation.

10. Incorrect Use of Conditional Sentences

Conditionals require the correct combination of verb forms.

Mistake: If I will see her, I will tell her.
👉 “Will see” is incorrect in the “if” clause.

Correction: If I see her, I will tell her.
👉 Use the simple present tense “see” in the “if” clause.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Vocabulary

1. Confusing Similar Words

Some words look or sound similar but have different meanings.

Mistake: He is sensible to criticism.
👉 “Sensible” means reasonable, which doesn’t fit here.

Correction: He is sensitive to criticism.
👉 “Sensitive” means easily affected by criticism, which is correct.

2. Using the Wrong Adjective

Adjectives have different meanings, so choose the right one.

Mistake: I am boring in this class.
👉 “Boring” means causing boredom, not feeling it.

Correction: I am bored in this class.
👉 Use “bored” to describe your feeling.

3. Incorrect Collocations

Words often go together in specific combinations.

Mistake: He did a mistake.
👉 “Do a mistake” is not a correct collocation.

Correction: He made a mistake.
👉 Use “make” with “mistake.”

4. Wrong Word Form

Some words change form based on their role in a sentence.

Mistake: She speaks very perfect English.
👉 “Perfect” is incorrect because it should be an adverb.

Correction: She speaks very perfectly English.
👉 Use “perfectly” as the adverb form.

5. Using Words with the Wrong Meaning

Be careful of words that look familiar but have different meanings.

Mistake: He actually speaks five languages.
👉 “Actually” means “in reality,” but it’s often misused to mean “currently.”

Correction: He currently speaks five languages.
👉 Use “currently” to talk about the present.

6. Misusing Countable and Uncountable Nouns

Some nouns cannot be plural.

Mistake: She gave me many good informations.
👉 “Informations” is incorrect because “information” is uncountable.

Correction: She gave me many good pieces of information.
👉 Use “pieces of information” for countable references.

7. Incorrect Synonyms

Synonyms are not always interchangeable.

Mistake: The view from the mountain was very funny.
👉 “Funny” means amusing, which doesn’t fit here.

Correction: The view from the mountain was very beautiful.
👉 Use “beautiful” for describing scenery.

8. Overusing Intensifiers

Too many intensifiers can make sentences awkward.

Mistake: It was very, very amazing!
👉 Repeating “very” makes the sentence unnatural.

Correction: It was absolutely amazing!
👉 Use a stronger single intensifier like “absolutely.”

9. Wrong Preposition with Verbs

Some verbs require specific prepositions.

Mistake: I am looking on my keys.
👉 “On” is incorrect with “looking.”

Correction: I am looking for my keys.
👉 Use “for” with “looking.”

10. Using Informal Words in Formal Contexts

Certain words are too casual for formal writing or speaking.

Mistake: The meeting was awesome.
👉 “Awesome” is too informal for this context.

Correction: The meeting was productive.
👉 Use “productive” in formal situations.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Pronunciation

1. Confusing Long and Short Vowel Sounds

Long and short vowel sounds can completely change a word’s meaning.

Mistake: She lives in a cheap house. (pronounced as chip)
👉 “Cheap” sounds like “chip,” which is incorrect.

Correction: She lives in a cheap house. (correct pronunciation: /tʃiːp/)
👉 The vowel sound should be long, like in “sheep.”

2. Dropping Final Sounds

Some learners tend to leave off the ending sounds of words.

Mistake: I’m going to the beach. (pronounced as bee)
👉 The “ch” sound is missing.

Correction: I’m going to the beach. (correct pronunciation: /biːtʃ/)
👉 Clearly pronounce the ending /tʃ/ sound.

3. Mispronouncing the “th” Sound

The “th” sound can be tricky for non-native speakers.

Mistake: I think it’s over dere.
👉 “Dere” instead of “there” is incorrect.

Correction: I think it’s over there. (correct pronunciation: /ðeər/)
👉 Practice placing your tongue between your teeth for the “th” sound.

4. Stress on the Wrong Syllable

Word stress can change the meaning of a word.

Mistake: I need a new present. (stress on the second syllable, meaning “to give something”)
👉 The stress is incorrect for a noun.

Correction: I need a new present. (correct stress: first syllable, /ˈprez.ənt/)
👉 Stress the first syllable when using “present” as a noun.

5. Adding Extra Vowel Sounds

Some learners add unnecessary vowels to words.

Mistake: I need to buy a new estop watch.
👉 “Estop” instead of “stop” adds an unnecessary vowel.

Correction: I need to buy a new stop watch. (correct pronunciation: /stɒp/)
👉 Avoid inserting extra vowel sounds.

6. Confusing “r” and “l” Sounds

Some speakers struggle with distinguishing “r” and “l.”

Mistake: I like to eat lice.
👉 “Lice” instead of “rice” is incorrect.

Correction: I like to eat rice. (correct pronunciation: /raɪs/)
👉 Practice rounding your lips for the “r” sound.

7. Mispronouncing Silent Letters

Silent letters are often pronounced when they shouldn’t be.

Mistake: He knee-ed on the floor.
👉 The “k” in “knee” should not be pronounced.

Correction: He kneeled on the floor. (correct pronunciation: /niːd/)
👉 Do not pronounce the “k” in “knee.”

8. Incorrect Intonation in Questions

Rising intonation is needed in yes/no questions.

Mistake: Are you coming today. (flat intonation)
👉 The flat tone makes it sound like a statement.

Correction: Are you coming today? (correct rising intonation)
👉 Raise your voice at the end to signal a question.

9. Pronouncing Consonant Clusters Incorrectly

Some learners omit sounds in consonant clusters.

Mistake: She is exited about the trip.
👉 “Exited” instead of “excited” leaves out the /k/ sound.

Correction: She is excited about the trip. (correct pronunciation: /ɪkˈsaɪ.tɪd/)
👉 Clearly pronounce all sounds in the cluster.

10. Overemphasizing Articles

Articles like “a” and “an” are often overpronounced.

Mistake: I saw uh elephant.
👉 Overemphasizing “uh” sounds unnatural.

Correction: I saw an elephant. (correct pronunciation: /ən/)
👉 Use the reduced vowel sound /ə/ for a natural flow.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Spelling

1. Confusing “Their,” “There,” and “They’re”

These homophones sound the same but have different meanings and spellings.

Mistake: The students forgot there books.
👉 “There” refers to a place, not possession.

Correction: The students forgot their books.
👉 “Their” shows possession, which is correct here.

2. Mixing Up “Your” and “You’re”

“Your” is possessive, and “you’re” is a contraction of “you are.”

Mistake: Don’t forget your amazing.
👉 “Your” doesn’t fit because it’s possessive.

Correction: Don’t forget you’re amazing.
👉 Use “you’re” as a contraction of “you are.”

3. Misspelling Silent Letters

Words with silent letters are often misspelled.

Mistake: He writes in his notebok.
👉 The silent “e” in “notebook” is missing.

Correction: He writes in his notebook.
👉 Include the silent “e” to spell it correctly.

4. Switching “Affect” and “Effect”

These words have different meanings and spellings.

Mistake: The weather has an affect on my mood.
👉 “Affect” is incorrect because it’s a verb.

Correction: The weather has an effect on my mood.
👉 “Effect” is a noun, which is correct here.

5. Adding or Dropping Letters

Some words are misspelled by adding or omitting letters.

Mistake: I received a definately good response.
👉 “Definately” is not the correct spelling.

Correction: I received a definitely good response.
👉 “Definitely” is the proper spelling.

6. Wrong Use of Double Consonants

Some words require double consonants, while others don’t.

Mistake: She is a commited teacher.
👉 “Commited” has only one “t,” which is wrong.

Correction: She is a committed teacher.
👉 Use double “t” to spell it correctly.

7. Incorrect Plural Forms

Irregular plurals are often misspelled.

Mistake: The children saw two deers in the park.
👉 “Deers” is incorrect because it’s an irregular plural.

Correction: The children saw two deer in the park.
👉 Use “deer” as the plural form.

8. Mixing “Lose” and “Loose”

These words look similar but have different meanings.

Mistake: I always loose my keys.
👉 “Loose” means not tight, which doesn’t fit here.

Correction: I always lose my keys.
👉 Use “lose” to mean “to misplace.”

9. Wrong Use of Apostrophes

Apostrophes can change the meaning of words.

Mistake: The cat left its’ food untouched.
👉 “Its’” is not a correct form.

Correction: The cat left its food untouched.
👉 Use “its” as the possessive form.

10. Confusing British and American Spelling

Some words are spelled differently in British and American English.

Mistake: I love the colour of your dress. (American context)
👉 “Colour” is British spelling, which may confuse readers in the U.S.

Correction: I love the color of your dress.
👉 Use “color” for American English spelling.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Word Order

1. Incorrect Placement of Adverbs

Adverbs are often placed in the wrong position, changing the meaning of the sentence.

Mistake: She always is late for class.
👉 The adverb “always” is placed incorrectly.

Correction: She is always late for class.
👉 Adverbs like “always” typically come after the verb “to be.”

2. Incorrect Question Word Order

Questions often follow an incorrect structure.

Mistake: You are coming to the party?
👉 The sentence lacks proper question inversion.

Correction: Are you coming to the party?
👉 Use inversion (verb before subject) to form a question.

3. Misplacing Time Expressions

Time expressions are sometimes placed awkwardly.

Mistake: I will tomorrow go to the market.
👉 “Tomorrow” is placed incorrectly in the sentence.

Correction: I will go to the market tomorrow.
👉 Time expressions usually go at the end of the sentence.

4. Wrong Placement of Adjectives

Adjectives must come before the noun in English.

Mistake: She bought a red beautiful dress.
👉 The order of adjectives is incorrect.

Correction: She bought a beautiful red dress.
👉 Use the correct order: opinion before color.

5. Wrong Position of Direct and Indirect Objects

The order of objects can confuse meaning.

Mistake: He gave to his friend the book.
👉 The indirect object is misplaced.

Correction: He gave the book to his friend.
👉 Place the direct object before the indirect object.

6. Incorrect Use of Auxiliary Verbs

Auxiliary verbs are sometimes placed in the wrong order.

Mistake: She has not completed yet the project.
👉 “Yet” is misplaced in this sentence.

Correction: She has not yet completed the project.
👉 Place “yet” after the auxiliary verb.

7. Wrong Placement of Negative Words

Negative words like “not” are sometimes placed incorrectly.

Mistake: He did not go yesterday not.
👉 “Not” is repeated and misplaced.

Correction: He did not go yesterday.
👉 Only one “not” is needed, placed after the auxiliary verb.

8. Incorrect Order in Comparisons

Comparative structures are sometimes reversed.

Mistake: She runs faster her brother than.
👉 The order in the comparison is incorrect.

Correction: She runs faster than her brother.
👉 “Than” must follow the comparative adjective.

9. Mixing Up Subject and Object Order

Subjects and objects sometimes get swapped.

Mistake: Him I saw at the park.
👉 The object “Him” is placed as the subject.

Correction: I saw him at the park.
👉 The subject “I” must come first in English sentences.

10. Wrong Placement of Prepositional Phrases

Prepositional phrases can create confusion when misplaced.

Mistake: She sat on the chair comfortably with her book.
👉 The prepositional phrases are in the wrong order.

Correction: She sat comfortably with her book on the chair.
👉 Place the phrases in logical, natural order.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Prepositions

1. Incorrect Preposition with Verbs

Some verbs are followed by specific prepositions, and using the wrong one can change the meaning.

Mistake: She is good in singing.
👉 “Good” is typically followed by “at,” not “in.”

Correction: She is good at singing.
👉 Use “at” when talking about skills or activities.

2. Using “In” Instead of “On” for Days

We often use “on” for days of the week, not “in.”

Mistake: I will see you in Monday.
👉 “In” is incorrect for specific days of the week.

Correction: I will see you on Monday.
👉 Use “on” with days like Monday, Tuesday, etc.

3. Confusing “At” and “In” for Locations

“At” and “in” are used differently when talking about locations.

Mistake: I am at the home now.
👉 “At” is used for specific points, but we usually say “in” for homes or buildings.

Correction: I am in the home now.
👉 “In” is used for general locations like a home or room.

4. Using “For” Instead of “Since”

“Since” is used for specific points in time, while “for” is used for durations.

Mistake: I have been studying for 5 years.
👉 “For” is correct for durations, but the phrase should specify a starting point.

Correction: I have been studying since 2018.
👉 “Since” is used for specific starting points.

5. Wrong Preposition with “Interested”

“Interested” is followed by “in,” not “on” or “about.”

Mistake: She is interested on the topic.
👉 “On” is incorrect with “interested.”

Correction: She is interested in the topic.
👉 “Interested” is followed by “in” when talking about something that captures your attention.

6. Confusing “Between” and “Among”

“Between” is used with two things, while “among” is used for more than two.

Mistake: The argument is between all the team members.
👉 “Between” is used for two items or people, not for a group.

Correction: The argument is among all the team members.
👉 “Among” refers to groups or more than two people or things.

7. Wrong Preposition with “Married”

“Married” is always followed by “to,” not “with.”

Mistake: He is married with a teacher.
👉 “With” is incorrect when talking about who someone is married to.

Correction: He is married to a teacher.
👉 “Married to” refers to the person someone is married to.

8. Incorrect Preposition with “Ask”

“Ask” is followed by “for” when requesting something.

Mistake: I will ask to the teacher for help.
👉 “To” is unnecessary in this context.

Correction: I will ask for the teacher’s help.
👉 Use “for” to indicate what you are requesting.

9. Using “On” Instead of “At” for Specific Locations

“At” is used for specific places, while “on” is used for surfaces.

Mistake: I will meet you on the station.
👉 “On” is used for surfaces, not specific places like stations.

Correction: I will meet you at the station.
👉 Use “at” for locations like stations, airports, or buildings.

10. Misusing “By” and “With” for Means of Transport

“By” is used to describe the means of transport, while “with” is used for instruments.

Mistake: I am traveling with car.
👉 “With” should not be used to describe a means of transport.

Correction: I am traveling by car.
👉 “By” is the correct preposition to indicate the mode of transport.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Tense

1. Using Present Simple for Ongoing Actions

The present simple is often mistakenly used for actions happening right now.

Mistake: I work at the office right now.
👉 “Work” is present simple, but we need the present continuous for actions happening at the moment.

Correction: I am working at the office right now.
👉 Use “am/is/are + verb-ing” for actions happening right now.

2. Using Past Tense for Unfinished Actions

Past tense is used for actions that were completed in the past, not for ongoing situations.

Mistake: I lived in New York for 5 years.
👉 “Lived” is past simple, but the action is ongoing.

Correction: I have lived in New York for 5 years.
👉 Use present perfect (“have/has + verb-ed”) for actions that started in the past and continue to the present.

3. Using Present Continuous for Regular Actions

Present continuous is incorrectly used for actions that happen regularly.

Mistake: I am going to the gym every morning.
👉 “Am going” is for actions happening now, but “every morning” suggests a routine.

Correction: I go to the gym every morning.
👉 Use present simple for regular or repeated actions.

4. Incorrect Use of Present Perfect for Finished Actions

The present perfect is used for actions with a connection to the present, not for actions that are completely finished.

Mistake: I have seen the movie yesterday.
👉 “Have seen” is present perfect, but the action is finished and refers to a specific time (yesterday).

Correction: I saw the movie yesterday.
👉 Use the past simple for actions completed at a specific time in the past.

5. Using Past Simple Instead of Present Perfect

The past simple is sometimes incorrectly used when present perfect is needed.

Mistake: I met him this morning.
👉 “Met” is past simple, but the speaker may want to emphasize the connection to the present.

Correction: I have met him this morning.
👉 Use present perfect when the time of the action is not specified and still has relevance to the present.

6. Confusing Future Tenses

There are several ways to talk about the future, and sometimes learners use the wrong one.

Mistake: I will going to the party tomorrow.
👉 “Will going” is incorrect.

Correction: I am going to the party tomorrow.
👉 Use “am/is/are going to” for planned actions or decisions made before the moment of speaking.

7. Using Present Continuous for Future Events

The present continuous is often mistakenly used for events that are scheduled in the future.

Mistake: I am leaving for Paris next week.
👉 “Am leaving” is present continuous, but it sounds like it’s happening now.

Correction: I am leaving for Paris next week.
👉 Present continuous is acceptable for future arrangements or plans.

8. Mixing Past Continuous and Present Continuous

Past continuous is sometimes confused with present continuous.

Mistake: I am studying when he called me.
👉 “Am studying” is present continuous, but the situation refers to the past.

Correction: I was studying when he called me.
👉 Use past continuous (“was/were + verb-ing”) for actions that were happening in the past when something else occurred.

9. Using Future Simple for Predictions with Evidence

Future simple (“will”) is incorrectly used when there is evidence that something will happen.

Mistake: It will rain soon. I see the dark clouds.
👉 “Will rain” is used for predictions, but the speaker sees evidence.

Correction: It is going to rain soon. I see the dark clouds.
👉 Use “is going to” for predictions based on evidence.

10. Using Present Simple for Temporary Actions

Present simple is mistakenly used to describe temporary situations.

Mistake: I stay at my friend’s house for the weekend.
👉 “Stay” is present simple, but the action is temporary.

Correction: I am staying at my friend’s house for the weekend.
👉 Use present continuous for temporary actions.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Articles

1. Omitting “The” with Specific Places

“The” is needed when referring to specific, known places.

Mistake: I went to Amazon yesterday.
👉 “Amazon” is a specific place, so it needs “the.”

Correction: I went to the Amazon yesterday.
👉 Use “the” when talking about something specific and known.

2. Using “The” with General Nouns

“The” should not be used with general nouns, only specific ones.

Mistake: I like the music.
👉 “Music” is general, so “the” should not be used.

Correction: I like music.
👉 Use no article when talking about things in general, like music or food.

3. Using “A” for Uncountable Nouns

“Uncountable nouns” don’t need “a” before them.

Mistake: I have a water.
👉 “Water” is uncountable, so “a” is not needed.

Correction: I have water.
👉 Don’t use “a” with uncountable nouns like water, sugar, or information.

4. Using “A” Instead of “An” Before Vowel Sounds

“A” is used before words that start with a consonant sound, but “an” is needed before vowel sounds.

Mistake: She has a apple.
👉 “Apple” starts with a vowel sound, so “a” should be “an.”

Correction: She has an apple.
👉 Use “an” before words starting with a vowel sound, like apple, orange, or hour.

5. Using “The” with Plural Nouns for General Meaning

“The” is used for specific things, not general plural nouns.

Mistake: I love the dogs.
👉 “Dogs” here is general, so no article is needed.

Correction: I love dogs.
👉 Use no article when talking about general things in plural, like dogs, cars, or books.

6. Using “The” with Unique Things

Some things are unique, and they don’t need “the” before them.

Mistake: She is reading the sky.
👉 “Sky” is unique, so no “the” is needed.

Correction: She is reading the sky.
👉 No article is needed before unique things like the sun, moon, sky, or the earth.

7. Using “A” for Specific References

“A” should not be used when referring to something specific that both the speaker and listener know.

Mistake: I met a teacher at the park.
👉 “Teacher” refers to a specific person, so “a” shouldn’t be used here.

Correction: I met the teacher at the park.
👉 Use “the” for things that are specific or already known.

8. Using “The” for General Groups

“The” is used for specific things, not general groups.

Mistake: I like the cats as pets.
👉 “Cats” refers to all cats, so no “the” should be used.

Correction: I like cats as pets.
👉 Don’t use “the” when referring to animals, people, or things in general.

9. Using “The” with Names of Most Countries

“The” is not used with most country names unless it’s a group of countries.

Mistake: I am from the Canada.
👉 “Canada” is a country name and doesn’t need “the.”

Correction: I am from Canada.
👉 Use “the” only for countries that are plural or have “republic” or “kingdom” in their names, like “the United States” or “the United Kingdom.”

10. Using “A” Instead of “The” with Specific Locations

“A” is used for general things, but “the” is needed for specific locations.

Mistake: We are going to a Eiffel Tower.
👉 “Eiffel Tower” is specific, so “a” is incorrect.

Correction: We are going to the Eiffel Tower.
👉 Use “the” for famous landmarks or locations that are specific and known.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Idioms

1. Incorrect Use of “Break a leg”

“Break a leg” is an idiom that means “good luck,” but it’s often misused in contexts where it doesn’t fit.

Mistake: I hope you break a leg on your test tomorrow.
👉 “Break a leg” is a performance-related idiom, not a general luck expression.

Correction: I hope you have good luck on your test tomorrow.
👉 Use idioms in the appropriate contexts, like “break a leg” for performances.

2. Saying “I could care less” Instead of “I couldn’t care less”

The expression “couldn’t care less” means you don’t care at all, while “could care less” is incorrect.

Mistake: I could care less about the movie tonight.
👉 “Could care less” implies that you do care, which is the opposite of what you mean.

Correction: I couldn’t care less about the movie tonight.
👉 Use “couldn’t care less” to express complete indifference.

3. Misusing “Piece of cake”

“Piece of cake” means something is very easy, but it’s often used incorrectly.

Mistake: That project was a piece of cake, even though it took a lot of time.
👉 “Piece of cake” refers to something easy, so the context is inconsistent.

Correction: That project was really hard, not a piece of cake.
👉 Use “piece of cake” for easy tasks, not difficult ones.

4. Confusing “Bite the bullet” with “Bite the dust”

“Bite the bullet” means to do something difficult or unpleasant, while “bite the dust” means to die or fail.

Mistake: He decided to bite the dust and get a new job.
👉 “Bite the dust” doesn’t fit here. It means something more final, like failure.

Correction: He decided to bite the bullet and get a new job.
👉 Use “bite the bullet” when you have to endure something difficult or unpleasant.

5. Saying “It’s raining cats and dogs” when it’s not really raining heavily

This idiom means it’s raining very heavily, but it’s often overused or misused in lighter rain situations.

Mistake: It’s raining cats and dogs outside, and I just see a drizzle.
👉 A drizzle isn’t considered heavy rain, so “cats and dogs” doesn’t fit.

Correction: It’s drizzling outside, not raining cats and dogs.
👉 Use “cats and dogs” only for heavy rain.

6. Saying “Under the weather” for Something Not Related to Health

“Under the weather” is an idiom used when feeling sick, but it’s often used incorrectly for other situations.

Mistake: I feel under the weather because I have too much work to do.
👉 “Under the weather” should relate to feeling ill, not overwhelmed by work.

Correction: I feel overwhelmed because I have too much work to do.
👉 Use “under the weather” for being sick, not stressed or busy.

7. Incorrect Use of “Cost an arm and a leg”

“Cost an arm and a leg” means something is very expensive, but it’s sometimes misused for things that aren’t pricey.

Mistake: That burger cost an arm and a leg, but it was just $5.
👉 “Arm and a leg” is used for something much more expensive than $5.

Correction: That burger was expensive for just a quick snack.
👉 Use “cost an arm and a leg” for items that are really expensive.

8. Misusing “Hit the nail on the head”

“Hit the nail on the head” means to be exactly right, but it’s often used incorrectly when something is just close but not exact.

Mistake: I think you hit the nail on the head with your guess about the price, even though it’s a bit off.
👉 “Hit the nail on the head” should mean an exact answer, not a close one.

Correction: I think you almost got it right, but it’s not the exact price.
👉 Use “hit the nail on the head” only for an exact or perfect answer.

9. Saying “Add fuel to the fire” when it’s not about making things worse

“Add fuel to the fire” means to make a bad situation worse, but it’s sometimes used for things that don’t escalate the situation.

Mistake: You’re just adding fuel to the fire by trying to help.
👉 Helping doesn’t make the situation worse, so “fuel to the fire” isn’t appropriate.

Correction: You’re just trying to help, but it’s not making things worse.
👉 Use “add fuel to the fire” when something makes a situation worse or more intense.

10. Misusing “Burn the midnight oil”

“Burn the midnight oil” means staying up late to work, but it’s often misused for activities that don’t involve working.

Mistake: I had to burn the midnight oil to watch my favorite TV show.
👉 “Burn the midnight oil” is about working late, not watching TV.

Correction: I stayed up late to watch my favorite TV show, but I wasn’t working.
👉 Use “burn the midnight oil” for working late, not for leisure activities.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Punctuation

1. Using a Comma Instead of a Period at the End of a Sentence

A period should end a complete sentence, not a comma.

Mistake: I went to the store, I bought some milk.
👉 The comma shouldn’t be there because these are two separate sentences.

Correction: I went to the store. I bought some milk.
👉 Use a period to separate independent clauses.

2. Omitting the Comma in a List

In lists, commas should separate items except for the last one, where “and” or “or” is used.

Mistake: I like apples bananas oranges and grapes.
👉 Commas are missing between the items in the list.

Correction: I like apples, bananas, oranges, and grapes.
👉 Use commas to separate items in a list, and place “and” before the last item.

3. Placing a Comma Before “Because”

Do not place a comma before “because” when it is connecting a dependent clause.

Mistake: I stayed home, because it was raining.
👉 A comma before “because” is incorrect here because it’s linking a reason.

Correction: I stayed home because it was raining.
👉 No comma is needed before “because” unless it’s for a pause or contrast.

4. Using a Semicolon Instead of a Comma with Conjunctions

A semicolon should not be used before “and,” “but,” or “so” in most cases; instead, a comma should be used.

Mistake: I wanted to go for a walk; but it started raining.
👉 A semicolon isn’t needed before “but.”

Correction: I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining.
👉 Use a comma before conjunctions like “and,” “but,” “so,” unless the clauses are long or complex.

5. Using a Comma Before an Opening Parenthesis

You don’t need a comma before parentheses unless it’s for a pause.

Mistake: I like reading, (especially books about history).
👉 A comma before the parentheses is unnecessary here.

Correction: I like reading (especially books about history).
👉 No comma is needed before opening parentheses unless there’s a pause or additional punctuation.

6. Overusing Exclamation Marks

Exclamation marks should be used sparingly, only when expressing strong emotions or emphasis.

Mistake: I can’t believe it’s finally the weekend!!
👉 Multiple exclamation marks are excessive.

Correction: I can’t believe it’s finally the weekend!
👉 Use one exclamation mark to express excitement or emphasis.

7. Misplacing Apostrophes in Plurals

Apostrophes are not used to form plurals, only for possession or contractions.

Mistake: There are many dog’s in the park.
👉 The apostrophe is incorrectly placed for the plural of “dog.”

Correction: There are many dogs in the park.
👉 Use no apostrophe when making a word plural.

8. Using a Comma to Separate a Compound Subject

When two subjects are joined by “and,” don’t use a comma between them unless there’s a pause.

Mistake: John, and Sara are coming to the party.
👉 A comma is incorrectly placed before “and.”

Correction: John and Sara are coming to the party.
👉 No comma is needed unless it’s a long or complex sentence.

9. Omitting Quotation Marks for Direct Speech

Always use quotation marks to show direct speech or quotes.

Mistake: She said, I’ll be there in five minutes.
👉 Missing quotation marks around what she said.

Correction: She said, “I’ll be there in five minutes.”
👉 Always use quotation marks around spoken words or direct quotes.

10. Misusing the Colon and Semicolon

A colon introduces lists or explanations, but a semicolon separates related independent clauses.

Mistake: I have three hobbies; reading, writing, and painting.
👉 A semicolon is not needed here; a colon should introduce the list.

Correction: I have three hobbies: reading, writing, and painting.
👉 Use a colon when introducing a list or explanation.

10 Most Common Mistakes in the Cultural Use of English

1. Using “Tea” to Mean “Gossip” Outside of British Culture

In British English, “tea” can refer to gossip, but this is not common in other cultures.

Mistake: Let’s meet for tea and discuss the office gossip.
👉 Outside of British culture, “tea” is more commonly understood as a beverage, not gossip.

Correction: Let’s meet for coffee and discuss the office gossip.
👉 Use context-appropriate phrases based on cultural understanding.

2. Saying “Take a rain check” in Cultures That Don’t Use This Expression

“Take a rain check” means to postpone something, but it may be confusing in cultures unfamiliar with the phrase.

Mistake: I can’t come to the party tonight. I’ll take a rain check.
👉 In some cultures, this idiom might not be widely understood.

Correction: I can’t come to the party tonight, but let’s reschedule.
👉 Use simpler, more universal terms when talking to people from different cultures.

3. Misunderstanding the Meaning of “No worries” in Australia vs. Other Countries

In Australia, “no worries” is commonly used to mean “no problem,” but it can sound casual or dismissive in other English-speaking cultures.

Mistake: I’m sorry I’m late. Can you help me with this task?
Response: No worries.
👉 In some cultures, “no worries” might seem too casual or impolite.

Correction: It’s okay, I can help you with that.
👉 Be mindful of the tone and level of formality required based on cultural expectations.

4. Using “How are you?” Too Literally in Some Cultures

In many English-speaking countries, “How are you?” is just a greeting and doesn’t require a detailed answer, but in other cultures, it’s more of a question about health.

Mistake: How are you?
Response: I’ve been feeling really sick recently.
👉 In some cultures, it’s expected to answer this question more seriously.

Correction: How’s it going?
👉 Use less personal greetings in casual settings, unless you know the person well.

5. Using “Americans” When Referring to All English Speakers

“American” is often incorrectly used to refer to all English-speaking people, but it specifically refers to people from the United States.

Mistake: I’ve been learning English from many American teachers.
👉 Not all English speakers are from the U.S., and this could be confusing in international settings.

Correction: I’ve been learning English from many native English-speaking teachers.
👉 Clarify that “American” refers specifically to people from the U.S.

6. Misusing “Cheers” in Non-British Cultures

“Cheers” is used in British English for thanking someone, but it may sound odd in other cultures or could be mistaken for a drinking toast.

Mistake: Thanks for the help, cheers!
👉 Outside British culture, this could sound like you’re suggesting a toast, not thanking someone.

Correction: Thanks for your help! I appreciate it.
👉 Use “thanks” or “thank you” in more neutral, globally understood contexts.

7. Saying “I could care less” Instead of “I couldn’t care less” in Some English Variants

In American English, “I couldn’t care less” is correct, but in some informal uses, people mistakenly say “I could care less.”

Mistake: I could care less about the weather.
👉 This is incorrect in most English varieties, especially American English.

Correction: I couldn’t care less about the weather.
👉 Always use “couldn’t care less” when you mean you don’t care at all.

8. Misunderstanding “Take it with a pinch of salt”

In British English, “take it with a pinch of salt” means not to take something too seriously, but this may be unclear to learners from non-English speaking cultures.

Mistake: She said the meeting was a disaster, but I’m taking it with a pinch of salt.
👉 Learners may not understand the idiomatic meaning.

Correction: She said the meeting was a disaster, but I’m not taking it too seriously.
👉 Use simpler phrases when communicating with learners from different cultural backgrounds.

9. Using “Back to square one” in Cultures Unfamiliar with Board Games

“Back to square one” means to start over, but it may not be understood by people unfamiliar with board games like Snakes and Ladders.

Mistake: After the meeting, we were back to square one in our discussions.
👉 People unfamiliar with the game may not understand the reference.

Correction: After the meeting, we had to start over in our discussions.
👉 Use simple language to ensure clarity across different cultures.

10. Using “Literally” to Mean “Figuratively”

In many cases, the word “literally” is used incorrectly to mean “figuratively,” which can confuse listeners.

Mistake: I literally died laughing during that joke.
👉 The usage here is incorrect, as “literally” means something that actually happens.

Correction: I figuratively died laughing during that joke.
👉 “Literally” should refer to something that really happened, not as an exaggeration.

10 Most Common Mistakes in Formal/Informal Use

1. Using Informal Phrases in a Formal Letter

In formal writing, avoid slang or overly casual language.

Mistake: Hey, just wanted to let you know I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
👉 The informal greeting “Hey” and casual tone are inappropriate in a formal letter.

Correction: Dear [Name], I am looking forward to hearing from you.
👉 Use a proper greeting and more formal language in professional communication.

2. Overusing Contractions in Academic Writing

Contractions like “can’t,” “won’t,” and “I’m” should generally be avoided in academic or formal writing.

Mistake: I can’t believe the results of the study are so surprising.
👉 “Can’t” is too informal for academic writing.

Correction: I cannot believe the results of the study are so surprising.
👉 Use the full form in academic writing to maintain formality.

3. Using Casual Phrasal Verbs in Formal Situations

Phrasal verbs such as “give up” or “bring up” may sound too informal in formal contexts.

Mistake: I’ll bring up the issue in the meeting tomorrow.
👉 “Bring up” is a casual phrasal verb.

Correction: I will raise the issue in the meeting tomorrow.
👉 Use more formal vocabulary to match the register.

4. Using Informal Expressions in Business Emails

In business emails, be careful about using colloquial expressions that may seem unprofessional.

Mistake: I’m just dropping you a quick note to say thanks for your help.
👉 “Dropping you a quick note” is too informal for a professional email.

Correction: I am writing to express my appreciation for your assistance.
👉 Use formal and professional phrasing in business communications.

5. Using Too Much Slang in Job Interviews

Slang and overly casual language can give the wrong impression in job interviews.

Mistake: I was chilling at home when I got the call for the interview.
👉 “Chilling” is informal and not suitable for a job interview.

Correction: I was relaxing at home when I received the call for the interview.
👉 Use neutral and formal vocabulary when discussing past experiences.

6. Being Too Formal in Casual Conversations

Overusing formal expressions in casual conversations can make you seem distant or impolite.

Mistake: I would like to request your assistance with this task.
👉 “Would like to request” is too formal for a friendly, casual conversation.

Correction: Could you help me with this task?
👉 Use more natural, conversational language in informal settings.

7. Inappropriately Formal Language in Customer Support

Using overly formal language can sound stiff and impersonal in customer service contexts.

Mistake: I wish to inform you that your order will be delayed.
👉 “Wish to inform you” is too formal for a customer support email.

Correction: I wanted to let you know that your order will be delayed.
👉 Use a friendlier and more approachable tone in customer service.

8. Using Informal Greetings in Professional Correspondence

“Hi” and “Hey” are too casual for formal business letters.

Mistake: Hey, I hope you’re doing well.
👉 “Hey” is an informal greeting, which is inappropriate in formal emails.

Correction: Dear [Name], I hope this message finds you well.
👉 Use a more formal greeting like “Dear” or “Hello” in professional emails.

9. Misusing Informal Tone in Academic Presentations

An informal tone can make you appear unprofessional in academic or professional presentations.

Mistake: I’m going to show you some stuff about our research.
👉 “Stuff” is too informal for an academic presentation.

Correction: I am going to present some key findings from our research.
👉 Use clear and formal language when presenting academic work.

10. Using Overly Formal Language in Casual Emails

Using overly formal language in informal emails can make you sound stiff or impersonal.

Mistake: I am writing to inform you that I am looking forward to your response.
👉 Overly formal language sounds out of place in an informal email.

Correction: Just wanted to let you know I’m looking forward to your response.
👉 Use a more relaxed tone for informal emails.

10 Most Common Mistakes in English Collocations

1. Misusing “Make” with “A Decision”

In English, the verb “make” is used with “a decision,” not “do.”

Mistake: I do a decision about the meeting time.
👉 “Do” is incorrect when talking about decisions.

Correction: I made a decision about the meeting time.
👉 “Make” is the correct verb to use with “a decision.”

2. Misusing “Take” with “A Shower”

The correct verb for actions like taking a shower or bath is “take,” not “do.”

Mistake: I need to do a shower before I leave.
👉 “Do” is incorrect for this collocation.

Correction: I need to take a shower before I leave.
👉 “Take” is the correct verb in this context.

3. Misplacing “Do” with “A Task”

“Do” is used with certain activities, but when referring to a task, the verb “do” is commonly used.

Mistake: I will make the task later.
👉 “Make” is incorrect when referring to tasks.

Correction: I will do the task later.
👉 “Do” is the correct verb to use with “a task.”

4. Wrong Preposition with “Interested”

In English, we say “interested in,” not “interested on.”

Mistake: I am interested on learning more about history.
👉 “On” is the wrong preposition here.

Correction: I am interested in learning more about history.
👉 Use “in” when talking about interests.

5. Misusing “Make” with “Progress”

“Make progress” is the correct collocation, not “do progress.”

Mistake: We need to do progress on this project.
👉 “Do” is incorrect in this context.

Correction: We need to make progress on this project.
👉 “Make” is the right verb to use with “progress.”

6. Wrong Verb for “Homework”

When talking about completing homework, the correct verb is “do,” not “make.”

Mistake: I need to make my homework before the deadline.
👉 “Make” is incorrect with “homework.”

Correction: I need to do my homework before the deadline.
👉 Use “do” with “homework.”

7. Incorrect Preposition with “Famous”

In English, we say “famous for,” not “famous about.”

Mistake: She is famous about her acting skills.
👉 “About” is the wrong preposition here.

Correction: She is famous for her acting skills.
👉 Use “for” when talking about what someone is famous for.

8. Misusing “Have” with “A Good Time”

“Have a good time” is the standard collocation, not “make a good time.”

Mistake: We make a good time at the party.
👉 “Make” is incorrect in this context.

Correction: We had a good time at the party.
👉 Use “have” with “a good time” to express enjoyment.

9. Incorrect Collocation with “Heavy” and “Rain”

In English, “heavy” collocates with “rain,” not “strong.”

Mistake: There is strong rain outside.
👉 “Strong” is incorrect when talking about rain.

Correction: There is heavy rain outside.
👉 “Heavy” is the correct adjective to describe rain.

10. Incorrect Verb with “A Relationship”

In English, we “have a relationship,” not “make a relationship.”

Mistake: They make a strong relationship over the years.
👉 “Make” is incorrect when talking about relationships.

Correction: They have a strong relationship over the years.
👉 Use “have” to describe a relationship.

Conclusion

To wrap up, this list of 130 common English mistakes, split into 13 categories, will be a useful tool for both teachers and students.

By learning from these examples, you can easily spot where students make mistakes and help them correct them.

This guide gives clear, simple corrections that will make it easier for students to improve. Keep it close to use in your lessons and see the difference it can make!

FAQs on Most Common Mistakes in English

1. What are the most common English mistakes ESL students make?
The most common mistakes include errors in grammar, vocabulary, word order, prepositions, tenses, articles, and more.

2. How can this list help ESL teachers?
This list gives teachers practical examples of common mistakes and their corrections, making it easier to create effective lesson plans.

3. Can I use these examples directly in my lesson plans?
Yes, you can use any of the examples from this list to make your lessons more engaging and relevant to your students’ needs.

4. How is the list organized?
The list is divided into 13 categories, such as grammar, punctuation, word order, and collocations, with 10 examples in each category.

5. Will this list help students improve quickly?
Yes, by focusing on these common mistakes and understanding the correct usage, students can improve their English skills faster.

6. Are the examples simple to understand?
Yes, each mistake is explained with a simple incorrect version and a clear, easy-to-understand correction.

7. Can I share this list with my students?
Absolutely! The list is designed to be helpful for both teachers and students, so feel free to share it in your lessons.

8. What are collocations, and why are they important?
Collocations are combinations of words that commonly go together, like “make progress” or “do homework.” Understanding them improves fluency.

9. How do I know if my students are making these mistakes?
You can spot these mistakes by paying attention to students’ speech and writing, then use this list to address common areas of confusion.

10. Is this list useful for beginner and advanced learners?
Yes, the list covers mistakes that students at various levels might make, making it a helpful resource for a wide range of learners.