Distinguishing Between Conscience and Conscious: Simple Definitions and Usage Guide

Distinguishing Between Conscience and Conscious: Simple Definitions and Usage Guide

Understanding “Conscience” vs. “Conscious”

Sometimes words sound the same or look alike, but they mean different things. “Conscience” and “Conscious” are two such words. Let’s look at what each means and how we use them.

What Does “Conscience” Mean?

The word “conscience” is used to talk about the little voice inside your head that helps you know right from wrong. It helps you make good choices. The word “conscience” comes from Latin, where it meant “to know together.” This means knowing what is right or wrong along with others.

How to Use “Conscience”

Here are some easy sentences to show how we can use “conscience”:

• My conscience told me to tell the truth.
• He has a strong conscience and tries to do good.
• Her conscience made her feel bad about lying.
• I listened to my conscience and helped my friend.
• A clear conscience makes you feel good inside.

What Does “Conscious” Mean?

The word “conscious” describes being awake and aware of your surroundings. When you know what is happening around you, you are conscious. It comes from Latin too, meaning “aware” or “knowing.”

How to Use “Conscious”

Here are some easy sentences to show how we can use “conscious”:

• He was conscious during the whole game.
• After she fell, it took a while for her to be conscious again.
• You should be conscious of your actions.
• He is always conscious of what he eats.
• She became conscious of the noise outside.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is an easy way to remember the difference: “Conscience” ends with “-ence” like “sense,” which can remind you of “right and wrong.” On the other hand, “conscious” ends with “-ous,” like “eyes open,” which can remind you of being awake and aware.

Summary

Both words are useful, but they mean different things. “Conscience” is about that little voice inside telling you what is right. “Conscious” is about being awake and aware of the world around you. By remembering the endings, you can use these words correctly each time!