Certain sets of words in the English language tend to confuse people. I have found the following to be among them:
MANTEL / MANTLE
In the case of these two words, it’s really more a matter of confusion about spelling than meaning, but it’s a good idea to get them straight. The noun mantel most often refers to a fireplace surround or a shelf above a fireplace whereas the noun mantle can mean a cloak or something that covers or envelopes. It is also sometimes used as a term indicating authority.
INCORRECT: Please set the candle on the fireplace mantle.
CORRECT: Please set the candle on the fireplace mantel.
INCORRECT: He pulled his mantel about him, took up his staff, and walked into the desert.
CORRECT: He pulled his mantle about him, took up his staff, and walked into the desert.
ALSO CORRECT: The earth’s mantle lies between the crust and the core of the planet.
ALSO CORRECT: She wasn’t sure she was ready to take up the mantle of organizer for such a large event.
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