Cracking a bad habit: cement vs. concrete

Lately a bad habit has been hardening among writers and announcers: A few keep confusing “cement” and “concrete.”

The two words are not synonymous.

“Cement” is a powder that when mixed with water and other materials, like gravel, can solidify into a hard, stone-like substance called “concrete.”

So, you can’t have a “cement bridge” or a “cement building,” as that would suggest they are made of powder.

Need an editor? Having your book, business document or academic paper proofread or edited before submitting it can prove invaluable. In an economic climate where you face heavy competition, your writing needs a second eye to give you the edge. Whether you come from a big city like Boston, Massachusetts, or a small town like Boston, Georgia, I can provide that second eye.