What strategy helps learners avoid false readings caused by false cognates?

• A. Explicit contrastive analysis and practice in context.
• B. Memorize all cognates regardless of context.
• C. Translate word-for-word.
• D. Ignore false cognates.

Answer: (A)

Understanding how to avoid misreadings caused by false cognates relies on comparing languages and applying what you learn in real contexts. Explicit contrastive analysis helps you identify which word pairs look alike but have different meanings, and pairing that with practice in meaningful sentences reinforces the correct senses and usage. For example, recognizing that a word that resembles a familiar term can carry a different meaning, and practicing it in context, helps prevent slipping into the wrong interpretation. Merely memorizing cognates without context can trap you into assuming every similar word means the same thing, which is risky because many false friends exist. Translating word-for-word often fails because meanings shift across languages and collocations differ. Ignoring false cognates guarantees continued errors.