Accommodate vs Discommode: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Are you often confused about whether to use the word “accommodate” or “discommode”? Do you find yourself using them interchangeably? Fret not, for we are here to clear your doubts and help you use the right word in the right context.

We should understand the meanings of these two words. “Accommodate” means to provide lodging or make room for someone/something. On the other hand, “discommode” means to cause inconvenience or trouble to someone.

Now, the question arises – which of the two is the proper word? Well, it depends on the context in which you are using them. If you are talking about providing space or making arrangements for someone/something, then “accommodate” is the right word to use. However, if you are referring to causing trouble or inconvenience to someone, then “discommode” is the word you should use.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the meanings and usage of these two words, and provide you with examples to help you understand them better.

Accommodate

Accommodate is a verb that refers to the act of providing someone with a place to stay, making adjustments to suit their needs, or making allowances for their preferences. It can also mean to adapt to a situation or circumstance, or to provide something that is needed or wanted.

For example, a hotel might accommodate its guests by offering a variety of room types, providing amenities such as a fitness center or pool, or offering a range of dining options. An employer might accommodate an employee with a disability by providing a wheelchair ramp or modifying their work schedule.

Accommodate can also be used in a more general sense to describe the act of making something more convenient or comfortable. For instance, a restaurant might accommodate a large group by rearranging tables or providing a private room.

Discommode

Discommode is a verb that means to cause inconvenience or discomfort to someone. It can also refer to the act of putting someone out of their way or causing them to go to extra trouble or effort.

For example, if a host asks their guests to remove their shoes before entering their home, this might discommode the guests if they are wearing complicated footwear or have mobility issues. Similarly, if a flight is delayed or cancelled, this can discommode passengers by causing them to miss connecting flights or lose valuable time.

Discommode can also be used in a more general sense to describe the act of putting someone in an awkward or uncomfortable position. For instance, if a friend asks to borrow money, this might discommode the lender by putting them in a difficult position.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right words in a sentence is crucial in conveying the intended message. In this section, we will discuss how to use the words “accommodate” and “discommode” correctly in a sentence.

How To Use “Accommodate” In A Sentence

The word “accommodate” means to provide lodging or make room for something or someone. It can also refer to adjusting to someone’s needs or preferences. Here are some examples of how to use “accommodate” in a sentence:

• We can accommodate up to 50 guests in our hotel.
• The restaurant can accommodate dietary restrictions upon request.
• I need to accommodate my work schedule to attend the conference.
• The company will accommodate the employee’s request for a flexible work schedule.

As seen in the examples, “accommodate” can be used in different contexts, such as hospitality, customer service, and work arrangements.

How To Use “Discommode” In A Sentence

The word “discommode” means to inconvenience or cause trouble to someone. It is not a commonly used word, but it can add precision to a sentence. Here are some examples of how to use “discommode” in a sentence:

• I don’t want to discommode you, but could you move your car?
• It would discommode me if you arrived later than planned.
• The construction noise is discommoding the residents of the neighborhood.

As shown in the examples, “discommode” is often used to express a polite request or to describe an inconvenience caused by someone or something.

More Examples Of Accommodate & Discommode Used In Sentences

As we continue to explore the usage of the words “accommodate” and “discommode”, let’s take a look at more examples of how they can be used in a sentence.

Examples Of Using Accommodate In A Sentence

• The hotel was able to accommodate our request for a late check-out.
• The restaurant was able to accommodate our large group for dinner.
• The new office building was designed to accommodate up to 500 employees.
• The airline was able to accommodate our last-minute flight change.
• The theater was able to accommodate the wheelchair user with accessible seating.
• The school was able to accommodate the student’s request for extra time on the exam.
• The company was able to accommodate the employee’s need for a flexible work schedule.
• The museum was able to accommodate the school group with a guided tour.
• The hotel was able to accommodate the guest’s dietary restrictions with special meals.
• The event planner was able to accommodate the client’s request for a specific theme.

Examples Of Using Discommode In A Sentence

• I don’t want to discommode you, but could you please move your car?
• I hope I’m not discommoding you by asking for your help.
• The construction noise is really discommoding the residents of the neighborhood.
• Please let me know if I’m discommoding you with my questions.
• I don’t want to discommode you, but could I borrow your phone charger?
• The flight delay is discommoding the passengers who have connecting flights.
• I’m sorry to discommode you, but could you please turn down the music?
• The power outage is discommoding the entire neighborhood.
• Please forgive me if I’m discommoding you, but could you repeat the instructions?
• The broken elevator is discommoding the tenants who live on the upper floors.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “accommodate” and “discommode,” there are a few common mistakes that people often make. These mistakes can lead to confusion and miscommunication, so it’s important to be aware of them and to try to avoid them whenever possible.

Using Accommodate And Discommode Interchangeably

One of the most common mistakes people make with these two words is using them interchangeably. While it may seem like they are synonyms, they actually have very different meanings.

Accommodate means to provide lodging, food, or other services or conveniences, while discommode means to cause inconvenience or discomfort to someone.

For example, if you were to say “I hope I don’t discommode you by asking for a ride,” you would be implying that you are causing inconvenience or discomfort to the person you are asking. On the other hand, if you were to say “I hope I can accommodate you by giving you a ride,” you would be implying that you are providing a service or convenience to the person.

Using these words interchangeably can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, so it’s important to use them correctly.

Tips For Avoiding Mistakes

Here are a few tips to help you avoid making mistakes with these words:

• Take a moment to think about the meaning of the word before using it.
• Consider using a thesaurus to find a more appropriate word if you’re not sure which one to use.
• Read over your writing carefully to make sure you’ve used the correct word.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that you are using these words correctly and avoiding common mistakes.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “accommodate” and “discommode”, the context in which they are used plays a crucial role. The meaning of these words can change depending on the situation they are used in. It is important to understand the context in order to use the right word and convey the intended meaning.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “accommodate” and “discommode” might change:

• Travel: When traveling, the word “accommodate” is commonly used to refer to finding a place to stay. For example, “The hotel was able to accommodate us with a room for the night.” On the other hand, “discommode” might be used in a negative context, such as “The delayed flight really discommoded us.”
• Customer Service: In customer service, “accommodate” is often used to refer to meeting the needs of a customer. For example, “We will do our best to accommodate your request.” Conversely, “discommode” might be used to describe a negative experience, such as “The long wait time really discommoded me.”
• Social Situations: In social situations, “accommodate” might be used to refer to making someone feel comfortable or included. For example, “We will accommodate your dietary restrictions at the dinner party.” On the other hand, “discommode” might be used to describe a situation where someone feels uncomfortable or inconvenienced, such as “I don’t want to discommode anyone by arriving late.”

As we can see from these examples, the choice between “accommodate” and “discommode” can vary depending on the context in which they are used. It is important to consider the situation and choose the appropriate word to convey the intended meaning.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using accommodate and discommode are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they might not apply. Here are some explanations and examples for each case:

1. Regional Differences

It’s worth noting that the usage of accommodate and discommode can vary depending on the region or country. For instance, in British English, discommode is rarely used, and instead, the word inconvenience is preferred. Similarly, in some parts of the world, accommodate may be used in a more general sense, such as accommodating someone’s needs or preferences, rather than just providing physical space.

2. Contextual Usage

The context in which these words are used can also affect their meaning. For example, in a legal context, the word accommodate may refer to making reasonable adjustments for disabled individuals, while discommode may refer to causing inconvenience or harm to someone. Similarly, in the hospitality industry, the word accommodate may refer to providing lodging or other services, while discommode may refer to causing discomfort or inconvenience to guests.

3. Negative Connotations

While discommode is generally considered to have negative connotations, there are some situations where it may be used in a more neutral or positive sense. For example, in the context of a medical procedure, discommode may refer to the temporary discomfort or inconvenience that a patient may experience, but it is necessary for their overall well-being. Similarly, in the context of a social event, discommode may refer to the inconvenience or disruption caused by unexpected guests, but it can also be seen as a sign of hospitality and generosity.

4. Idiomatic Expressions

Finally, there are some idiomatic expressions that use accommodate or discommode in a non-literal sense. For example, the phrase “bend over backwards to accommodate someone” means to go out of one’s way to help or please someone, while the phrase “put someone out or discommode someone” means to inconvenience or trouble someone. These expressions should be understood in the context in which they are used, rather than taken literally.

Practice Exercises

To improve your understanding and usage of the words accommodate and discommode, here are some practice exercises:

Exercise 1

Fill in the blanks with either accommodate or discommode:

1. The hotel staff went out of their way to _________ the guests with special needs.
2. Sorry to _________ you, but could you move your car so I can get out of the driveway?
3. Her small apartment could only __________ two people comfortably.
4. The restaurant was able to __________ the large group despite the short notice.
5. He didn’t want to _________ his friends, so he agreed to go to the concert even though he didn’t like the band.

Answer key:

1. accommodate
2. discommode
3. accommodate
4. accommodate
5. discommode

Exercise 2

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence:

1. The hotel was able to __________ the needs of the guests with disabilities.
2. Sorry to __________ you, but could you move your car so I can get out of the driveway?
3. Her small apartment could only __________ two people comfortably.
4. The restaurant was able to __________ the large group despite the short notice.
5. He didn’t want to __________ his friends, so he agreed to go to the concert even though he didn’t like the band.

Answer key:

1. accommodate
2. discommode
3. accommodate
4. accommodate
5. discommode

By practicing with these exercises, you can improve your understanding and usage of the words accommodate and discommode in sentences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between accommodate and discommode is crucial for effective communication. Accommodate is to make adjustments or provide convenience, while discommode is to cause inconvenience or trouble.

It is important to use these words correctly, as using them interchangeably can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

Additionally, proper language use is essential for clear and concise communication. By continuing to learn and improve our grammar and language skills, we can enhance our ability to convey our thoughts and ideas effectively.