The words 'cite', 'sight' and 'site' have different meanings, but they sound
identical. As a consequence, some writers fail to differentiate between
them.
Sight
'Sight' relates to vision. It is the power of seeing (i.e.,
perception by the eyes). It can also be something that is seen (e.g., What
a beautiful sight.)
Examples:
 The newborn foal was an emotional sight for all of us.
After the laser treatment,
her sight was perfect.
Site
The noun 'site' refers
to a piece of land (e.g., building site). As a verb
('to site'), it means 'to position in a place' (e.g., I will site the slide near
the swings.)
Examples:
There are
three landfill sites in the local vicinity.
Mr Dodds
claimed his tools had been stolen from the archaeological site.
Cite
The verb 'cite' means 'to quote', 'to refer to', 'to summon to appear before a court of
law' or simply 'to mention'.
Examples:
The lecturer
cited several instances of illegal behaviour.
The young
inspector was cited for his outstanding achievements.
Remember to
cite expert opinion to support your points.
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THE CULPRIT IS SITE
The word 'site' (meaning 'a piece of land') is the one that causes problems. The
most common error relating to these three words is writing 'sight' instead of
'site'.
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TRADESMAN'S ENTRANCE
A site usually houses a building or construction work. You can remember the
definition of 'site' using the 'te' to remind you of tradesman's
entrance. (A site is likely to have a tradesman's entrance.)
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Common grammar errors
