Certain sets of words in the English language tend to confuse people. I have found the following to be among them:
ANESTHESIA / ANESTHETIC
The noun anesthesia means loss of sensation, which may or may not involve loss of consciousness. The noun anesthetic refers to a substance that can produce anesthesia or bring relief, usually connected with relieving pain. The word anesthetic can also be an adjective meaning related to or capable of producing anesthesia or lacking sensitivity or awareness.
INCORRECT: I was given anesthesia prior to my surgery.
CORRECT: I was given an anesthetic prior to my surgery.
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