There were many prominent men in Lincoln’s cabinet, but the President was always predominant among them.
Consult the unabridged as to the origin of these words.
Recipe, receipt.
If receipt comes from the Latin meaning “taken,” it is easy to see why when money is taken a receipt is given. Recipe is a Latin imperative, meaning “take”; naturally it is the right word for a formula in cooking; “take” so much salt, so much meal, so much water—and lo! a johnny cake.
Relative, relation.
One may have many relatives with whom he does not keep up close relations.
Is relation preferably an abstract noun, or a concrete?
Residence, house.
1. Do not say residence when you mean house; the simpler word is the better.