What are Homophones?
Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings.
In the English language, there are countless words that sound the same but have completely different meanings. These words are called homophones. Homophones can cause confusion in writing and speaking, so it’s important to be aware of them and use them correctly.
One of the most common examples of homophones is “flower” and “flour.” While “flower” refers to the blooming plant, “flour” is a powdery substance made from ground grains and used in baking. Another example is “break” and “brake.” “Break” is a verb that means to separate into pieces, while “brake” is a noun that refers to a device used to slow or stop a vehicle.
Another set of homophones that are often mixed up are “there,” “their,” and “they’re.” “There” is an adverb that refers to a place, “their” is a possessive pronoun that shows ownership, and “they’re” is a contraction of “they are.” For example, “They’re going there for their vacation,” “They are going there for their vacation”
Homophones can also be found in idioms such as “bear” ( to endure) and “bare” (to uncover or reveal), “hear” (to perceive sound) and “here” (refers to place)
It’s important to be aware of these words and use them correctly in order to avoid confusion and ensure clear communication. This can be achieved by reading and writing extensively, and also by consulting a dictionary or thesaurus when in doubt.
In conclusion, homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings. They can cause confusion in writing and speaking, so it’s important to be aware of them and use them correctly. By paying attention to these words and consulting a dictionary or thesaurus when in doubt, you can improve your communication skills and avoid confusion in your writing and speaking.
Example:
To/Too/Two:
To: To is a preposition, infinitive marker, or that the verb being used is in the infinitive form.
Too: Too is an adverb and can indicate that something is happening in addition to another thing.
Two: Two is the number that falls between one and three.
Examples of Homophones
| abel / able | accede / exceed |
| accept / except | addition / edition |
| all ready / already | ax / acts |
| axel / axle | axes / axis |
| aye / eye / I | ayes / eyes |
| bawl / ball | brake / break |
| been / bin | beer / bier |
| bury / berry | bussed / bust |
| but / butt | buy / by / bye |
| byte / bight | cache / cash |
| caddie / caddy | cain / cane |
| cheap / cheep | check / Czech |
| cheep / cheap | chews / choose |
| cell / sell | chic / sheik |
| click / clique | climb / clime |
| clique / click | colonel / kernel |
| coolie / coulee | coop / coupe |
| cops / copse | coral / choral |
| cord / cored | core / corps |
| cored / chord | corps / core |
| coughers / coffers | coulee / coolie |
| council / counsel | coup / coo |
| course / coarse | cousin / cozen |
| coward / cowered | coy / koi |
| cozen / cousin | craft / kraft |
| crape / crepe | crawl / kraal |
| creak / creek | crepe / crape |
| crewel / cruel | dense / dents |
| descent / dissent | dun / done |
| dye / die | dyeing / dying |
| fare / fair | fate / fete |
| faun / fawn | fax / facts |
| faze / phase | feat / feet |
| feint / faint | fends / fens |
| flour / flower | flow / floe |
| flower / flour | flu / flue / flew |
| flyer / flier | foaled / fold |
| fort / forte | forward / foreword |
| foul / fowl | four / fore / for |
| fourth / forth | graphed / graft |
| heroin / heroine | hertz / hurts |
| hew / hue | hear / here |
| heal / heel | hour / our |
| hoes / hose | idle / idol |
| incite / insight | jam / jamb |
| jean / gene | jell / gel |
| jibe / gibe | knight / night |
| kernel / colonel | knap / nap |
| knave / nave | knot / not |
| ladder / latter | lade / laid |
| lain / lane | lays / laze |
| lea / lee | leach / leech |
| lead / led | leak / leek |
| lean / lien | leased / least |
| led / lead | lee / lea |
| leech / leach | liar / lier |
| lie / lye | lien / lean |
| moan / mown | moat / mote |
| mode / mowed | mood / mooed |
| moose / mousse | morn / mourn |
| nickers / knickers | niece / Nice |
| oh / owe | one / won |
| owe / oh | padded / patted |
| paean / paeon | pail / pale |
| pain / pane | pair / pare |
| pale / pail | poor / pour |
| parish / perish | real / reel |
| root / route | rose / rows |
| rows / rose | rude / rued |
| rue / roux | right / write |
| rued / rude | sea / see |
| sole / soul | son / sun |
| steal / steel | suite / sweet |
| stationary / stationery | stair / stare |
| their / there | troop / troupe |
| trussed / trust | turn / tern |
| tutor / tooter | tux / tucks |
| to / too / two | tail / tale |
| urn / earn | use / ewes |
| vale / veil | vane / vein |
| vary / very | veil / vale |
| vein / vain | ways / weighs |
| we / wee | we’ll / wheel |
| weak / week | wear / where |
| weave / we’ve | wretch / retch |
| wring / ring | weather / whether |
| waist / waste | wait / weight |
| yew / ewe / you | yews / use |
| yoke / yolk | you’ll / Yule |
| your / you’re | yule / you’ll |
List of Homophones with meaning and sentences
Abel/Able
Abel: A biblical name, often associated with the son of Adam and Eve.
Example: “Abel offered a sacrifice to God.”
Able: Having the capability or skill to do something.
Example: “She is able to speak multiple languages fluently.”
Accede/Exceed
Accede: To agree to a demand, request, or treaty.
Example: “The government acceded to the protesters’ demands.”
Exceed: To go beyond a limit or boundary.
Example: “The noise level exceeded the legal limit.”
Accept/Except
Accept: To agree to receive or undertake something.
Example: “I accept your apology.”
Except: Excluding; not including.
Example: “Everyone came to the party except Sarah.”
Addition/Edition
Addition: The act or process of adding something to something else.
Example: “She made an addition to her collection of stamps.”
Edition: A particular version or form of a published text.
Example: “The latest edition of the dictionary includes new words.”
All Ready/Already
All Ready: Everyone is prepared or ready.
Example: “The team is all ready for the match.”
Already: Before or by now; by this time.
Example: “I’ve already finished my homework.”
Ax/Acts
Ax: A cutting tool with a heavy metal head mounted at right angles to a handle.
Example: “He used an ax to chop wood.”
Acts: The behavior or actions of someone or something.
Example: “His acts of kindness won him many friends.”
Axel/Axle
Axel: A figure skating jump with a forward takeoff.
Example: “She landed a perfect axel in her routine.”
Axle: A shaft on which a wheel rotates.
Example: “The car’s axle broke, causing it to stop suddenly.”
Axes/Axis
Axes: Plural form of “ax.”
Example: “He sharpened the axes before going to chop firewood.”
Axis: An imaginary line about which a body rotates.
Example: “The Earth rotates on its axis.”
Aye/Eye/I
Aye: An affirmative vote or response.
Example: “All those in favor, say aye.”
Eye: The organ of sight.
Example: “She has beautiful blue eyes.”
I: A pronoun referring to oneself.
Example: “I am going to the store.”
Ayes/Eyes
Ayes: Plural form of “aye.”
Example: “The ayes have it, and the motion carries.”
Eyes: Plural form of “eye.”
Example: “She closed her eyes and fell asleep.”
Bawl/Ball
Bawl: To cry loudly.
Example: “The baby bawled for hours.”
Ball: A spherical object used in various sports and games.
Example: “Let’s play ball in the park.”
Brake/Break
Brake: A device used to slow or stop a vehicle.
Example: “Apply the brake gently to stop smoothly.”
Break: To separate into pieces as a result of force; pause or interruption.
Example: “He had to break the glass to open the door.”
Been/Bin
Been: Past participle of “be.”
Example: “She has been to Europe several times.”
Bin: A container for storing things.
Example: “Throw the trash in the bin.”
Beer/Bier
Beer: An alcoholic drink made from fermented malt and flavored with hops.
Example: “I’ll have a cold beer, please.”
Bier: A stand on which a corpse or coffin is placed before burial.
Example: “They carried the casket on the bier to the graveyard.”
Bury/Berry
Bury: To inter in the ground; to conceal or hide.
Example: “We bury our pets in the backyard when they pass away.”
Berry: A small, pulpy fruit.
Example: “She picked some ripe berries from the bush.”
Bussed/Bust
Bussed: Past tense of “bus,” meaning to transport by bus.
Example: “The students bussed to the museum for their field trip.”
Bust: To break or damage something.
Example: “He accidentally bust the vase while cleaning.”
But/Butt
But: Used to introduce something contrasting with what has already been mentioned.
Example: “He’s very talented, but he’s also very lazy.”
Butt: The thicker end of something; also, a slang term for buttocks.
Example: “He stubbed his toe on the door’s metal butt.”
Buy/By/Bye
Buy: To acquire in exchange for payment.
Example: “I need to buy groceries from the store.”
By: Next to or alongside.
Example: “He sat by the window.”
Bye: A shortening of “goodbye.”
Example: “She waved goodbye as the train pulled away.”
Byte/Bight
Byte: A unit of digital information.
Example: “This file is only a few kilobytes.”
Bight: A curve or loop in a rope.
Example: “He secured the boat with a bight in the rope.”
Cache/Cash
Cache: A hidden storage space for provisions or valuables.
Example: “The explorer found a cache of ancient artifacts.”
Cash: Money in the form of coins or banknotes.
Example: “He paid for the groceries with cash.”
Caddie/Caddy
Caddie: A person who carries a golfer’s clubs and provides other assistance during play.
Example: “The caddie handed the golfer his putter.”
Caddy: A small container for holding tea or other beverages.
Example: “She placed the teapot on the caddy.”
Cain/Cane
Cain: A biblical figure, known for killing his brother Abel.
Example: “Cain was punished for his crime by being marked.”
Cane: A long, slender stick used as a support or walking aid.
Example: “The elderly man walked with a cane.”
Cheap/Cheep
Cheap: Inexpensive; low in price.
Example: “She found a cheap sweater on sale.”
Cheep: A short, high-pitched sound made by a bird or small animal.
Example: “The chicks cheeped in their nest.”
Check/Czech
Check: To inspect or examine something.
Example: “Check your pockets for the keys.”
Czech: Relating to the Czech Republic or its people, language, or culture.
Example: “She speaks fluent Czech.”
Chews/Choose
Chews: Present tense of “chew,” meaning to bite and grind with the teeth.
Example: “The cow chews its cud slowly.”
Choose: To select or pick out from a number of alternatives.
Example: “I will choose the blue shirt.”
Cell/Sell
Cell: A small room in which a prisoner is locked up.
Example: “The prisoner was confined to his cell.”
Sell: To transfer goods or services in exchange for money.
Example: “He decided to sell his old car.”
Chic/Sheik
Chic: Stylishness and elegance, especially of dress or behavior.
Example: “She always dresses in a chic and fashionable manner.”
Sheik: A leader in an Arab society or chief of an Arab family, tribe, or village.
Example: “The sheik rode through the desert on his camel.”
Click/Clique
Click: A short, sharp sound or series of sounds.
Example: “She heard a click as the door closed.”
Clique: A small, exclusive group of people who share similar interests.
Example: “She’s part of the popular clique at school.”
Climb/Clime
Climb: To ascend or move upward, especially by using the hands and feet.
Example: “We decided to climb the mountain.”
Clime: A region with a particular climate.
Example: “She preferred the warm climes of the tropics.”
Colonel/Kernel
Colonel: A rank in the army or air force, above lieutenant colonel and below brigadier.
Example: “The colonel led his troops into battle.”
Kernel: A softer, usually edible part of a nut, seed, or fruit stone contained within its hard shell.
Example: “She ate popcorn but avoided the unpopped kernels.”
Coolie/Coulee
Coolie: A laborer, especially an unskilled one from Asia.
Example: “The coolie worked in the fields all day.”
Coulee: A deep ravine or gulch, typically with a river or stream running through it.
Example: “They hiked along the coulee, enjoying the natural beauty.”
Coop/Coupe
Coop: A small cage or enclosure for poultry.
Example: “The chickens were kept in the coop at night.”
Coupe: A car with a fixed roof and two doors.
Example: “She drove a sleek coupe.”
Cops/Copse
Cops: Informal term for police officers.
Example: “The cops arrived at the scene of the crime.”
Copse: A small group of trees.
Example: “They picnicked in the shade of the copse.”
Coral/Choral
Coral: A hard substance formed from the skeletons of marine polyps.
Example: “The diver explored the coral reef.”
Choral: Relating to or sung by a choir or chorus.
Example: “They performed a choral rendition of the hymn.”
Cord/Cored
Cord: A flexible length of twisted or braided threads or fibers.
Example: “He tied the package with a cord.”
Cored: Past tense of “core,” meaning to remove the tough central part of a fruit.
Example: “She cored the apple before slicing it.”
Core/Corps
Core: The central or most important part of something.
Example: “The core of the argument is based on solid evidence.”
Corps: A main subdivision of an armed force.
Example: “He served in the Marine Corps for ten years.”
Cored/Chord
Cored: Past tense of “core,” meaning to remove the tough central part of a fruit.
Example: “She cored the apple before slicing it.”
Chord: A group of (typically three or more) notes sounded together as a basis of harmony.
Example: “He strummed the guitar, playing a simple chord progression.”
Coughers/Coffers
Coughers: People who cough.
Example: “The room was full of coughers during flu season.”
Coffers: Chests or boxes used to keep valuables.
Example: “The king kept his treasure in large coffers.”
Council/Counsel
Council: A group of people who meet regularly to discuss matters of common interest.
Example: “The city council met to discuss the new budget.”
Counsel: Advice or guidance, especially as solicited from a knowledgeable person.
Example: “She sought counsel from her attorney before signing the contract.”
Coup/Coo
Coup: A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.
Example: “The military coup overthrew the government.”
Coo: The soft murmuring sound made by a dove or pigeon.
Example: “The doves cooed softly in the garden.”
Course/Coarse
Course: The route or direction followed by a ship, aircraft, road, or river.
Example: “The ship altered its course to avoid the storm.”
Coarse: Rough or loose in texture.
Example: “She rubbed her hands together, feeling the coarse sand.”
Cousin/Cozen
Cousin: A child of one’s uncle or aunt.
Example: “My cousin is coming to visit us next week.”
Cozen: To deceive or trick.
Example: “He tried to cozen her out of her inheritance.”
Coward/Cowered
Coward: A person who lacks courage in facing danger or difficulty.
Example: “He called me a coward for not jumping off the cliff.”
Cowered: Past tense of “cower,” meaning to crouch down in fear.
Example: “The dog cowered in the corner during the thunderstorm.”
Coy/Koi
Coy: Shy or modest, especially in a playful or provocative way.
Example: “She gave him a coy smile.”
Koi: A large ornamental variety of the common carp.
Example: “The pond was filled with colorful koi.”
Craft/Kraft
Craft: Skill in doing or making something, especially with one’s hands.
Example: “She admired his craft in woodworking.”
Kraft: A strong, brown paper used for wrapping or packaging.
Example: “She wrapped the gift in kraft paper.”
Crape/Crepe
Crape: A thin, crimped fabric, typically used for mourning clothes.
Example: “She wore a black crape veil to the funeral.”
Crepe: A thin pancake.
Example: “She ordered a crepe filled with strawberries and cream.”
Crawl/Kraal
Crawl: To move forward on the hands and knees or by dragging the body close to the ground.
Example: “The baby learned to crawl before walking.”
Kraal: An enclosure for livestock, especially cattle, in southern Africa.
Example: “The farmer built a new kraal for his herd.”
Creak/Creek
Creak: A harsh, high-pitched sound made by something old or poorly lubricated.
Example: “The old door creaked when she opened it.”
Creek: A small stream or narrow, sheltered waterway.
Example: “They went fishing in the creek behind the house.”
Crepe/Crape
Crepe: A thin pancake.
Example: “She ordered a crepe filled with strawberries and cream.”
Crape: A thin, crimped fabric, typically used for mourning clothes.
Example: “She wore a black crape veil to the funeral.”
Crewel/Cruel
Crewel: A thick yarn used for embroidery.
Example: “She embroidered the pillowcase with crewel thread.”
Cruel: Willfully causing pain or suffering to others.
Example: “It’s cruel to tease animals.”
Dense/Dents
Dense: Closely compacted in substance.
Example: “The fog was so dense that we couldn’t see anything.”
Dents: Depressions or hollows caused by a blow or pressure.
Example: “The car door had several dents from the accident.”
Descent/Dissent
Descent: The act or process of moving downwards.
Example: “The descent down the mountain was treacherous.”
Dissent: The holding or expression of opinions at variance with those commonly or officially held.
Example: “Several members of the group voiced their dissent.”
Dun/Done
Dun: A dull grayish-brown color.
Example: “The walls of the castle were painted in a dun hue.”
Done: Past participle of “do.”
Example: “He had done his homework before dinner.”
Dye/Die
Dye: A substance used to color materials or substances.
Example: “She dyed her hair blonde.”
Die: To cease living; undergo death.
Example: “All living things eventually die.”
Dyeing/Dying
Dyeing: The process of coloring materials or substances with dye.
Example: “She was skilled in the art of fabric dyeing.”
Dying: In the process of ceasing to live.
Example: “The dying man whispered his final words.”
Fare/Fair
Fare: The money a passenger on public transportation has to pay.
Example: “The bus fare increased by ten percent.”
Fair: Just and reasonable; without bias.
Example: “It’s only fair that everyone gets a turn.”
Fate/Fete
Fate: The development of events beyond a person’s control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power.
Example: “She believed in fate, that everything happened for a reason.”
Fete: A celebration or festival, especially one held outdoors.
Example: “They attended the summer fete in the village square.”
Faun/Fawn
Faun: A mythological creature, part man and part goat, associated with nature and fertility.
Example: “In ancient mythology, fauns were often depicted as playful woodland creatures.”
Fawn: A young deer.
Example: “The fawn followed its mother through the forest.”
Fax/Facts
Fax: Short for facsimile, a telecommunications device used to send and receive documents.
Example: “He sent the contract via fax.”
Facts: Information that is known to be true.
Example: “She presented the facts to support her argument.”
Faze/Phase
Faze: To disturb or disconcert.
Example: “The criticism didn’t faze her; she remained confident.”
Phase: A distinct period or stage in a process of change or development.
Example: “The project is entering its final phase.”
Feat/Feet
Feat: An achievement that requires great courage, skill, or strength.
Example: “Climbing Mount Everest is a remarkable feat.”
Feet: Plural form of “foot.”
Example: “She stood on her feet all day at work.”
Feint/Faint
Feint: A deceptive or pretended blow, thrust, or other movement, especially in boxing or fencing.
Example: “He made a feint to the left before striking to the right.”
Faint: Lacking in strength or clarity; barely perceptible.
Example: “She felt faint from hunger.”
Fends/Fens
Fends: To defend or resist.
Example: “He fends off criticism with humor.”
Fens: Low, marshy land.
Example: “The fens were home to many rare bird species.”
Flour/Flower
Flour: A powder obtained by grinding grain, typically wheat, and used to make bread, cakes, and pastry.
Example: “She sifted the flour before adding it to the dough.”
Flower: The seed-bearing part of a plant, consisting of reproductive organs surrounded by petals.
Example: “The garden was filled with colorful flowers.”
Flow/Floe
Flow: To move steadily and continuously in a current or stream.
Example: “The river flows into the sea.”
Floe: A sheet of floating ice.
Example: “They navigated their boat through the ice floes.”
Flower/Flour
Flower: The seed-bearing part of a plant, consisting of reproductive organs surrounded by petals.
Example: “The garden was filled with colorful flowers.”
Flour: A powder obtained by grinding grain, typically wheat, and used to make bread, cakes, and pastry.
Example: “She sifted the flour before adding it to the dough.”
Flu/Flue/Flew
Flu: Short for influenza, a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.
Example: “He caught the flu and had to stay home from work.”
Flue: A duct for smoke and waste gases produced by a fire, a gas heater, a power station, or other fuel-burning installation.
Example: “The chimney sweep cleaned out the flue.”
Flew: Past tense of “fly.”
Example: “The bird flew south for the winter.”
Flyer/Flier
Flyer: A person or thing that flies.
Example: “The pilot handed out safety instructions to the flyers.”
Flier: A person or animal that flies, especially in a particular way.
Example: “The eagle is a powerful flier.”
Foaled/Fold
Foaled: Past tense of “foal,” meaning to give birth to a foal (young horse).
Example: “The mare foaled in the spring.”
Fold: To bend something over on itself so that one part of it covers another.
Example: “She folded the letter and placed it in the envelope.”
Fort/Forte
Fort: A fortified building or strategic position.
Example: “The soldiers defended the fort against enemy attacks.”
Forte: A person’s strong point; something at which someone excels.
Example: “Her forte is mathematics.”
Forward/Foreword
Forward: Toward the front; in the direction that one is facing or traveling.
Example: “He took a step forward.”
Foreword: A short introductory section in a book, typically written by someone other than the author.
Example: “The foreword of the novel was written by a famous author.”
Foul/Fowl
Foul: Offensive to the senses, especially through having a disgusting smell or taste or being dirty. Example: “The foul odor emanating from the garbage can was unbearable.”
Fowl: A bird of the order Galliformes, including chickens, turkeys, pheasants, and geese. Example: “The farmer raised various types of fowl on his farm.”
Four/Fore/For
Four: The number equivalent to the sum of two and two; one more than three.
Example: “There are four seasons in a year.”
Fore: In golf, a warning shouted to alert players nearby that a ball is heading in their direction.
Example: “He yelled ‘fore’ as his golf ball veered off course.”
For: In favor of or in support of.
Example: “I’ll vote for the candidate who promises change.”
Fourth/Forth
Fourth: Constituting number four in a sequence; coming after the third in order.
Example: “He finished fourth in the race.”
Forth: Forward in time, place, or order; onward.
Example: “She stepped forth to accept the award.”
Graphed/Graft
Graphed: Past tense of “graph,” meaning to plot on a graph.
Example: “She graphed the data to visualize the trends.”
Graft: A piece of living tissue that is transplanted surgically.
Example: “The surgeon performed a skin graft on the burn victim.”
Heroin/Heroine
Heroin: A highly addictive analgesic drug derived from morphine, often used illicitly as a narcotic producing euphoria.
Example: “Heroin addiction can have devastating effects on individuals and communities.”
Heroine: A woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.
Example: “She was hailed as a heroine for saving the child from the fire.”
Hertz/Hurts
Hertz: The unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second.
Example: “The radio station broadcasts at a frequency of 100 megahertz.”
Hurts: Causes physical pain or injury to.
Example: “The wound hurts when I touch it.”
Hew/Hue
Hew: To chop or cut (something, especially wood) with an ax, pick, or other tool.
Example: “He hewed the logs into shape for the cabin.”
Hue: A color or shade.
Example: “She painted the walls a vibrant hue of blue.”
Hear/Here
Hear: To perceive with the ear.
Example: “She could hear the sound of footsteps approaching.”
Here: In, at, or to this place or position.
Example: “I’m here waiting for you.”
Heal/Heel
Heal: To become healthy or sound again.
Example: “The medicine helped to heal the wound.”
Heel: The back part of the human foot below the ankle.
Example: “She wore high heels to the party.”
Hour/Our
Hour: A period of time equal to a twenty-fourth part of a day and night and divided into 60 minutes.
Example: “He worked for eight hours straight.”
Our: Belonging to or associated with us.
Example: “This is our house.”
Hoes/Hose
Hoes: Plural form of “hoe,” a gardening tool with a thin flat blade used to break up the soil.
Example: “The farmers used hoes to prepare the field for planting.”
Hose: A flexible tube conveying water, used especially for watering plants and in firefighting.
Example: “He sprayed the garden with a hose.”
Idle/Idol
Idle: Not active or in use; unemployed.
Example: “He sat idle at his desk, waiting for inspiration to strike.”
Idol: An image or representation of a god used as an object of worship.
Example: “The temple was filled with statues of various idols.”
Incite/Insight
Incite: To encourage or stir up violent or unlawful behavior.
Example: “His speech incited the crowd to riot.”
Insight: The capacity to gain an accurate and deep intuitive understanding of a person or thing.
Example: “She had a sudden insight into the problem.”
Jam/Jamb
Jam: A sweet spread or preserve made from fruit and sugar boiled to a thick consistency.
Example: “She spread jam on her toast for breakfast.”
Jamb: The side post or surface of a doorway, window, or fireplace.
Example: “She leaned against the jamb of the door.”
Jean/Gene
Jean: A strong, twilled cotton fabric used for trousers, overalls, and jackets.
Example: “She wore blue jeans to the party.”
Gene: A unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and is held to determine some characteristic of the offspring.
Example: “The gene for eye color is passed down from parents to children.”
Jell/Gel
Jell: To set or become firm, like jelly.
Example: “The dessert will jell in the refrigerator.”
Gel: A thick, jelly-like substance, especially one used in cosmetics or for the hair.
Example: “She applied gel to her hair to style it.”
Jibe/Gibe
Jibe: To be in agreement or accord.
Example: “His story doesn’t jibe with the facts.”
Gibe: To mock or jeer at; taunt.
Example: “He couldn’t resist making a gibe about her new haircut.”
Knight/Night
Knight: A man granted an honorary title of knighthood by a monarch or other political leader.
Example: “The knight rode bravely into battle.”
Night: The period of darkness in each twenty-four hours.
Example: “They went for a walk in the park at night.”
Kernel/Colonel
Kernel: The softer, usually edible part contained in the shell of a nut or the stone of a fruit.
Example: “She cracked open the walnut and ate the kernel inside.”
Colonel: A rank of officer in the army, air force, or marine corps, above a lieutenant colonel and below a brigadier.
Example: “The colonel led his troops into battle.”
Knap/Nap
Knap: A sharp, abrupt blow or sound.
Example: “She heard the knap of branches breaking in the forest.”
Nap: A short period of sleep, especially during the day.
Example: “He took a quick nap after lunch.”
Knave/Nave
Knave: A dishonest or unscrupulous man.
Example: “He was known as a knave who couldn’t be trusted.”
Nave: The central part of a church building, intended to accommodate most of the congregation.
Example: “The nave of the cathedral was filled with worshippers.”
Knot/Not
Knot: A fastening made by looping a piece of string, rope, or something similar on itself and tightening it.
Example: “He tied a knot in the rope to secure the boat.”
Not: Used to express negation or denial.
Example: “She decided not to go to the party.”
Ladder/Latter
Ladder: A portable structure consisting of two parallel sides of wood, metal, or rope, used for climbing up or down something.
Example: “He climbed the ladder to reach the roof.”
Latter: Denoting the second or second mentioned of two people or things.
Example: “He offered her coffee or tea, and she chose the latter.”
Lade/Laid
Lade: To load or burden.
Example: “She lade the donkey with supplies for the journey.”
Laid: Past tense of “lay.”
Example: “She laid the book on the table.”
Lain/Lane
Lain: Past participle of “lie.”
Example: “The book had lain on the shelf for years.”
Lane: A narrow road, especially in a rural area.
Example: “They walked down the country lane lined with trees.”
Lays/Laze
Lays: Present tense of “lay,” meaning to put down.
Example: “She lays the table before dinner.”
Laze: To be idle or lazy.
Example: “He lazed around all day instead of doing his chores.”
Lea/Lee
Lea: An open area of grassy or arable land.
Example: “They picnicked in the lea by the river.”
Lee: The sheltered side; the side away from the wind.
Example: “They anchored the boat in the lee of the island.”
Leach/Leech
Leach: To remove substances from a substance by percolating liquid through it.
Example: “The rain leached nutrients from the soil.”
Leech: A blood-sucking worm.
Example: “The doctor used leeches to treat the patient’s illness.”
Lead/Led
Lead: To guide or conduct.
Example: “She will lead the team to victory.”
Led: Past tense of “lead.”
Example: “He led the way with a lantern.”
Leak/Leek
Leak: A hole in a container or covering through which contents, especially liquid or gas, may accidentally pass.
Example: “There’s a leak in the roof; it’s dripping water.”
Leek: A vegetable related to the onion, with a slender white bulb and flat, dark green leaves.
Example: “She used leeks to make soup.”
Lean/Lien
Lean: To incline or bend from a vertical position.
Example: “He leaned against the wall.”
Lien: A right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged.
Example: “The bank holds a lien on the house until the mortgage is paid off.”
Leased/Least
Leased: Past tense of “lease,” meaning to rent.
Example: “They leased a car for their vacation.”
Least: Superlative form of “little,” indicating the smallest amount or extent.
Example: “It was the least I could do to help.”
Lee/Lea
Lee: The sheltered side; the side away from the wind.
Example: “They anchored the boat in the lee of the island.”
Lea: An open area of grassy or arable land.
Example: “They picnicked in the lea by the river.”
Leech/Leach
Leech: A blood-sucking worm.
Example: “The doctor used leeches to treat the patient’s illness.”
Leach: To remove substances from a substance by percolating liquid through it.
Example: “The rain leached nutrients from the soil.”
Liar/Lier
Liar: A person who tells lies.
Example: “She couldn’t trust him because he was a known liar.”
Lier: A person or thing that lies down.
Example: “The cat is a natural lier; it loves to nap in the sun.”
Lie/Lye
Lie: To recline or be in a horizontal position on a surface.
Example: “He decided to lie down and rest for a while.”
Lye: A strong alkaline solution, especially one used for cleaning.
Example: “She used lye to make soap.”
Lien/Lean
Lien: A right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged.
Example: “The bank holds a lien on the house until the mortgage is paid off.”
Lean: To incline or bend from a vertical position.
Example: “He leaned against the wall.”
Moan/Mown
Moan: A long, low sound made by a person expressing physical or mental suffering or sexual pleasure.
Example: “She let out a moan of pain as she stubbed her toe.”
Mown: Past participle of “mow,” meaning to cut down grass or grain with a machine or scythe.
Example: “The field had been mown and looked neat and tidy.”
Moat/Mote
Moat: A deep, wide ditch, typically filled with water, surrounding a fortified medieval town, fortress, or castle.
Example: “The castle was surrounded by a deep moat.”
Mote: A tiny piece of a substance.
Example: “He brushed a mote of dust from his jacket.”
Mode/Mowed
Mode: A way or manner in which something occurs or is experienced, expressed, or done.
Example: “They communicated in sign language, a mode of communication for the deaf.”
Mowed: Past tense of “mow,” meaning to cut down grass or grain with a machine or scythe.
Example: “He mowed the lawn on Saturday morning.”
Mood/Mooed
Mood: A temporary state of mind or feeling.
Example: “She was in a cheerful mood after receiving good news.”
Mooed: Past tense of “moo,” the sound made by a cow.
Example: “The cow mooed loudly in the pasture.”
Moose/Mousse
Moose: A large deer with palmate antlers, a sloping back, and a growth of skin hanging from the neck.
Example: “We spotted a moose in the forest.”
Mousse: A sweet or savory dish made with whipped cream or egg whites, usually flavored and chilled until set.
Example: “She served chocolate mousse for dessert.”
Morn/Mourn
Morn: Literary term for morning.
Example: “The morn broke with a clear sky.”
Mourn: To feel or show sorrow for the death of someone.
Example: “She mourned the loss of her beloved pet.”
Nickers/Knickers
Nickers: Slang term for underpants.
Example: “She giggled when he dropped his pants and revealed his nickers.”
Knickers: Loose-fitting short trousers gathered at the knee or just below it.
Example: “She wore knickers for horseback riding.”
Niece/Nice
Niece: A daughter of one’s brother or sister, or of one’s brother-in-law or sister-in-law.
Example: “She adores her niece and spoils her with gifts.”
Nice: Pleasant; agreeable.
Example: “It was a nice day for a picnic.”
Oh/Owe
Oh: Used to express a range of emotions, including surprise, anger, disappointment, or relief.
Example: “Oh, I didn’t expect to see you here!”
Owe: To be under obligation to pay or repay someone in return for something received.
Example: “I owe you ten dollars for lunch.”
One/Won
One: The number denoting unity.
Example: “She has one brother and two sisters.”
Won: Past tense of “win.”
Example: “They won the game with a last-minute goal.”
Owe/Oh
Owe: To be under obligation to pay or repay someone in return for something received.
Example: “I owe you ten dollars for lunch.”
Oh: Used to express a range of emotions, including surprise, anger, disappointment, or relief.
Example: “Oh, I didn’t expect to see you here!”
Padded/Patted
Padded: Covered, stuffed, or filled with a soft material to protect or give shape or definition.
Example: “The padded walls of the room absorbed sound.”
Patted: Past tense of “pat,” meaning to touch or stroke gently with the palm of one’s hand.
Example: “She patted the dog on the head.”
Paean/Paeon
Paean: A song of praise or triumph.
Example: “They sang a paean to celebrate their victory.”
Paeon: A metrical foot in poetry consisting of one long syllable and three short syllables.
Example: “The poem used a paeon to create rhythm.”
Pail/Pale
Pail: A bucket. Example: “She filled the pail with water from the well.”
Pale: Light in color or having little color.
Example: “She had pale skin that burned easily in the sun.”
Pain/Pane
Pain: Physical suffering or discomfort caused by illness or injury.
Example: “She felt a sharp pain in her side.”
Pane: A single sheet of glass in a window or door.
Example: “The window pane was cracked.”
Pair/Pare
Pair: A set of two similar things considered together.
Example: “She bought a pair of shoes.”
Pare: To trim off an outer layer from something.
Example: “She used a knife to pare the apple.”
Pale/Pail
Pale: Light in color or having little color.
Example: “She had pale skin that burned easily in the sun.”
Pail: A bucket.
Example: “She filled the pail with water from the well.”
Poor/Pour
Poor: Lacking sufficient money to live at a standard considered comfortable or normal in a society.
Example: “He grew up in a poor family.”
Pour: To cause (a liquid) to flow from a container in a steady stream.
Example: “She poured herself a cup of tea.”
Parish/Perish
Parish: A local church community, usually the smallest division of the Christian Church, served by a pastor.
Example: “He attended church regularly and was active in his parish.”
Perish: To suffer death, typically in a violent, sudden, or untimely way.
Example: “Without water, the plants will perish.”
Real/Reel
Real: Actually existing as a thing or occurring in fact.
Example: “She felt like she was living in a real-life fairy tale.”
Reel: A cylindrical object around which material such as thread, film, or tape is wound.
Example: “He wound the fishing line onto the reel.”
Root/Route
Root: The part of a plant that attaches it to the ground or to a support, typically underground, conveying water and nourishment to the rest of the plant.
Example: “The roots of the tree spread out underground.”
Route: A way or course taken in getting from a starting point to a destination.
Example: “They took a scenic route through the mountains.”
Rose/Rows
Rose: Past tense of “rise.”
Example: “She rose from her seat and walked to the door.”
Rows: Plural of “row,” a number of people or things in a more or less straight line.
Example: “She planted rows of flowers in her garden.”
Rows/Rose
Rows: Plural of “row,” a number of people or things in a more or less straight line.
Example: “She planted rows of flowers in her garden.”
Rose: Past tense of “rise.”
Example: “She rose from her seat and walked to the door.”
Rude/Rued
Rude: Offensively impolite or ill-mannered.
Example: “He was rude to the waiter, which made everyone uncomfortable.”
Rued: Past tense of “rue,” meaning to bitterly regret.
Example: “She rued the day she had decided to leave her job.”
Rue/Roux
Rue: To bitterly regret.
Example: “She would rue the day she agreed to lend him money.”
Roux: A mixture of fat and flour used in making sauces.
Example: “She made a roux as the base for her gumbo.”
Right/Write
Right: Morally good, justified, or acceptable.
Example: “She always tries to do what is right.”
Write: To mark letters, words, or other symbols on a surface, typically paper, with a pen, pencil, or similar implement.
Example: “She wrote a letter to her friend.”
Rued/Rude
Rued: Past tense of “rue,” meaning to bitterly regret.
Example: “She rued the day she had decided to leave her job.”
Rude: Offensively impolite or ill-mannered.
Example: “He was rude to the waiter, which made everyone uncomfortable.”
Sea/See
Sea: The expanse of saltwater that covers most of the earth’s surface and surrounds its landmasses.
Example: “They went swimming in the sea.”
See: To perceive with the eyes; discern visually.
Example: “Can you see that bird in the tree?”
Sole/Soul
Sole: The underside of the foot.
Example: “She walked barefoot on the hot sand, feeling it burn the soles of her feet.”
Soul: The spiritual or immaterial part of a human being, regarded as immortal.
Example: “She believed that her soul would live on after her body died.”
Son/Sun
Son: A male offspring of a parent or parents.
Example: “Her son was studying abroad.”
Sun: The star around which the earth orbits, providing light and warmth to the earth.
Example: “The sun rose in the east.”
Steal/Steel
Steal: To take (another person’s property) without permission or legal right and without intending to return it.
Example: “She stole a glance at her watch during the meeting.”
Steel: A hard, strong, gray or bluish-gray alloy of iron with carbon and usually other elements, used extensively as a structural and fabricating material.
Example: “The bridge was built with steel girders.”
Suite/Sweet
Suite: A set of rooms designated for one person’s or one group’s use or occupancy.
Example: “They booked a luxurious suite at the hotel.”
Sweet: Having the pleasant taste characteristic of sugar or honey; not salty, sour, or bitter.
Example: “She enjoyed a piece of sweet chocolate.”
Stationary/Stationery
Stationary: Not moving; not intended to be moved.
Example: “The car was stationary at the traffic light.”
Stationery: Writing paper and other office materials.
Example: “She bought some new stationery for her desk.”
Stair/Stare
Stair: A series of steps or flights of steps leading from one level to another.
Example: “She climbed the stairs to the top floor.”
Stare: To look fixedly or vacantly at someone or something with one’s eyes wide open.
Example: “She stared at him in disbelief.”
Their/There
Their: Belonging to or associated with people or things previously mentioned or easily identified.
Example: “They left their coats by the door.”
There: In, at, or to that place or position.
Example: “Look over there, by the tree.”
Troop/Troupe
Troop: A group of soldiers, especially a cavalry unit commanded by a captain, or an airborne unit.
Example: “The troop marched in formation.”
Troupe: A group of actors, dancers, or other entertainers who work together.
Example: “The circus troupe performed amazing feats.”
Trussed/Trust
Trussed: Tied up tightly.
Example: “The turkey was trussed and ready for roasting.”
Trust: Firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.
Example: “She placed her trust in her closest friend.”
Turn/Tern
Turn: To move or cause to move in a circular direction wholly or partly around an axis or point.
Example: “She turned the key in the lock and opened the door.”
Tern: A seabird of the family Sternidae, typically smaller and more slender than a gull, with long pointed wings and a forked tail.
Example: “They spotted a tern diving for fish near the shore.”
Tutor/Tooter
Tutor: A private teacher, typically one who teaches a single student or a very small group.
Example: “She hired a math tutor to help her improve her grades.”
Tooter: Informal term for someone who plays a wind instrument, especially the trumpet.
Example: “He’s been a tooter since he was in high school.”
Tux/Tucks
Tux: Informal term for a tuxedo, a man’s semiformal evening suit, typically black and white.
Example: “He rented a tux for the wedding.”
Tucks: To make a fold, pleat, or bend in something, especially fabric or paper.
Example: “She carefully tucked the corner of the sheet under the mattress.”
To/Too/Two
To: Expressing motion in the direction of (a particular location).
Example: “She walked to the store.”
Too: Also; in addition.
Example: “He wanted to go too.”
Two: The number equivalent to the sum of one and one.
Example: “They have two dogs.”
Tail/Tale
Tail: The hindmost part of an animal, especially when extended beyond the rest of the body.
Example: “The dog wagged its tail excitedly.”
Tale: A fictitious or true narrative or story, especially one that is imaginatively recounted.
Example: “She told an amusing tale about her adventures.”
Urn/Earn
Urn: A tall, rounded vase with a stem and base, especially one used for storing the ashes of a cremated person.
Example: “They placed flowers on the urn containing their grandmother’s ashes.”
Earn: To receive (money) in return for labor or services.
Example: “She worked hard to earn her paycheck.”
Use/Ewes
Use: To employ for some purpose; put into service; make use of.
Example: “She will use the computer to finish her assignment.”
Ewes: Plural of “ewe,” a female sheep.
Example: “The farmer separated the ewes from the rams.”
Vale/Veil
Vale: A valley.
Example: “They hiked through the vale, enjoying the picturesque scenery.”
Veil: A piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face.
Example: “She wore a veil over her face during the wedding ceremony.”
Vane/Vein
Vane: A flat, narrow part or structure, often rigid or blade-like.
Example: “The weather vane pointed north.”
Vein: A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.
Example: “The nurse inserted the needle into the vein in his arm.”
Vary/Very
Vary: To change or alter in form, appearance, substance, or nature.
Example: “The flavors of ice cream vary depending on the brand.”
Very: To a high degree; extremely.
Example: “She was very happy with her new job.”
Veil/Vale
Veil: A piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face.
Example: “She wore a veil over her face during the wedding ceremony.”
Vale: A valley.
Example: “They hiked through the vale, enjoying the picturesque scenery.”
Vein/Vain
Vein: A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.
Example: “The nurse inserted the needle into the vein in his arm.”
Vain: Having or showing an excessively high opinion of one’s appearance, abilities, or worth.
Example: “She was too vain to admit her mistakes.”
Ways/Weighs
Ways: Plural of “way,” a method, style, or manner of doing something.
Example: “There are many ways to solve this problem.”
Weighs: Third person singular present tense of “weigh,” meaning to find out how heavy something is.
Example: “She weighs herself every morning.”
We/Wee
We: Used by a speaker to refer to himself or herself and one or more other people considered together.
Example: “We went to the movies last night.”
Wee: Very small; tiny.
Example: “She wore a wee hat on her head.”
We’ll/Wheel
We’ll: Contraction of “we will.”
Example: “We’ll meet you at the restaurant at 7 o’clock.”
Wheel: A circular object that revolves on an axle and is fixed below a vehicle or other object to enable it to move easily over the ground.
Example: “She rode her bicycle with training wheels.”
Weak/Week
Weak: Lacking the power to perform physically demanding tasks; not strong.
Example: “He felt weak after being sick for a week.”
Week: A period of seven days.
Example: “They went on vacation for a week.”
Wear/Where
Wear: To have or carry on one’s body or a part of one’s body as clothing, decoration, protection, or for some other purpose.
Example: “She likes to wear colorful scarves.”
Where: In or to what place or position.
Example: “Where did you leave your keys?”
Weave/We’ve
Weave: To form (fabric or a fabric item) by interlacing long threads passing in one direction with others at a right angle to them.
Example: “She learned how to weave baskets from willow branches.”
We’ve: Contraction of “we have.”
Example: “We’ve already finished our homework.”
Wretch/Retch
Wretch: An unfortunate or unhappy person.
Example: “He felt like a wretch after losing his job.”
Retch: To make the sound and movement of vomiting.
Example: “The smell made her retch.”
Wring/Ring
Wring: To squeeze and twist (something) to force liquid from it.
Example: “She wrung out the wet cloth.”
Ring: A small circular band, typically of precious metal, worn on a finger as an ornament or a token of marriage, engagement, or authority.
Example: “He gave her a diamond ring for their anniversary.”
Weather/Whether
Weather: The state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time, especially as regards heat, dryness, sunshine, wind, rain, etc.
Example: “The weather is usually sunny in California.”
Whether: Expressing a doubt or choice between alternatives.
Example: “I don’t know whether to take the train or the bus.”
Waist/Waste
Waist: The part of the human body below the ribs and above the hips, often narrower than the areas above and below it.
Example: “She tied a belt around her waist.”
Waste: To use or expend carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose.
Example: “Don’t waste food; there are people who are hungry.”
Wait/Weight
Wait: To stay where one is or delay action until a particular time or until something else happens.
Example: “She had to wait for the bus to arrive.”
Weight: A body’s relative mass or the quantity of matter contained by it, giving rise to a downward force.
Example: “She lifted the weight with ease.”
Yew/Ewe/You
Yew: A type of coniferous tree.
Example: “The yew tree in the garden is centuries old.”
Ewe: A female sheep.
Example: “The ewe gave birth to twin lambs.”
You: Used to refer to the person or people that the speaker is addressing.
Example: “Can you pass me the salt, please?”
Yews/Use
Yews: Plural of “yew,” a type of coniferous tree.
Example: “The yews in the churchyard are ancient.”
Use: To employ for some purpose; put into service; make use of.
Example: “She will use the computer to finish her assignment.”
Yoke/Yolk
Yoke: A wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to the plow or cart that they are to pull.
Example: “The oxen were harnessed together with a yoke.”
Yolk: The yellow part of an egg.
Example: “She separated the egg white from the yolk.”
You’ll/Yule
You’ll: Contraction of “you will.”
Example: “You’ll feel better after a good night’s sleep.”
Yule: A pagan festival celebrated at the winter solstice.
Example: “They decorated the house with evergreens for Yule.”
Your/You’re
Your: Belonging to or associated with the person or people that the speaker is addressing.
Example: “Is this your book?”
You’re: Contraction of “you are.”
Example: “You’re the best friend I’ve ever had.”
