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    TACK/TACT

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    ​(A proofreader's note regarding “tack” and “tact”)

    A multipurpose noun is “tack”
    In nags and nails and sails,
    Referring there with meanings clear
    Like "course" per more details.

    A verb as well is our friend "tack,"
    To prove his worth and act,
    Impressive more than all-trade Jack,
    And caring not for tact.

    For only nouns may "tact" address,
    Itself a case of one.
    "Avoid offense" its mantra strong,
    The prize for calm thus won.

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    LOATH/LOATHE

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    ​(A proofreader's note regarding “loath” and “loathe”)

    Though “loath” and “loathe” may sound the same,
    When played, their meanings part,
    For one will serve as adjective,
    The other, verb at heart.

    While “loath” describes reluctance mere,
    The “e” of “loathe” extends
    Its meaning to extremity:
    “To feel dislike intense.”

    When “loath” and “loathe” for share appear,
    Decipher whether verb;
    The latter word may then be clear
    Or hint at room for curb.

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    DEPRIVED/DEPRAVED

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    (A proofreader's note regarding “deprived” and “depraved”)

    “Deprived” implies a serious absence
    Of basics deemed essential,
    A taking away of something maybe,
    With “lack” a factor crucial.

    “Depraved” instead must say “corrupted”
    In morals and ethical conduct.
    The lack we find there illustrated
    Is sickly sought—not out-chucked.

    “Deprived of any moral compass,
    The youth was disadvantaged,
    Exemplifying depraved behavior,
    His inclinations wretched.”

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    URGENt/EMERGENt

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    (A proofreader's note regarding “emergent” and “urgent”)

    Beware the sound of “urgent”
    That echoes in “emergent”;
    Emergency there hinted
    Perverts what was intended.

    “Emergent” means beginning,
    A coming into being.
    In medicine, it's different,
    “Emergency” inferring.

    These both can be descriptors,
    As adjectives like “urgent”:
    “Emergency condition,”
    “Emergent social segment.”

    Single, though, is “urgent”
    In meaning and in purpose,
    Requiring prompt attention
    Its one and only focus.

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