Common Errors in English - Action

action
noun
1
BAD: The actions that we do everyday are made easier by computers.
GOOD: The things that we do everyday are made easier by computers.
BAD: If someone has done a wrong action, he should be punished.
GOOD: If someone has done something wrong, he should be punished.
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Do and action cannot be used together. Use do + things/something/ anything etc: 'She's always doing things for charity.' 'Don't do anything that might upset them.'
2
BAD: It is difficult to forgive those responsible for actions of terrorism.
GOOD: It is difficult to forgive those responsible for acts of terrorism.
BAD: Blackmail is the action of trying to obtain money from someone by threatening to expose them.
GOOD: Blackmail is the act of trying to obtain money from someone by threatening to expose them.
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an/the act of (doing) sth (NOT action ): 'Such acts of violence will not be tolerated.' 'For some people, the very act of talking to a doctor can help them to feel better.'
3
BAD: Few people are aware that an urgent action is needed.
GOOD: Few people are aware that urgent action is needed.
BAD: The government should take an action to reduce the birth rate.
GOOD: The government should take action to reduce the birth rate.
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When you are talking about the idea or process of doing something, action is uncountable: 'There is too much talk and not enough action.'
In the phrase take action, action is always uncountable: 'This illegal trade will continue unless action is taken to stop it.'