Homophones are words that sound the same but spelt differently and have distinct meanings are called homophones. Such words can be comprehended by looking at their spellings or at the sentence in which they are employed.
For instance, Dyeing and Dying
"Dyeing" refers to the process of adding colour or pigment to something while 'dying' refers to someone being on the verge of death.
→ She learned the art of dyeing fabrics in her class 8 textile design course.
→ Despite dying to share her exciting news with the class, Sam patiently waited for the teacher to finish the class.
1. Weather - Whether
Weather: refers to the state of the atmosphere
Whether: introduces a choice between alternatives or possibilities.
Sentence: The weather was unpredictable, with dark clouds looming overhead and a strong breeze, making us wonder whether we should go out or stay indoors.
2. Knead - Need
Knead (verb): to work and press into a mass with the hands, as in baking.
Need (noun/verb): a requirement or necessity
Sentences:
→ Jonny had to knead the dough for several minutes to ensure the bread would rise perfectly.
→ The students understood the need for good study habits as they prepared for their class 8 exams.
3. Accept - Except
Accept: to receive or agree to something.
Except: excluding or not including a particular thing or group of things.
Sentences:
→ Sussain decided to accept the job offer, excited about the new opportunities it would bring.
→ Everyone was invited to the party except Jack, who had a prior commitment.
4. Descent - Dissent
Descent (noun): refers to the action of moving downward or a decline in status or condition.
Dissent (noun/verb): refers to the expression of disagreement or a difference of opinion.
Sentences:
→ The aeroplane began its descent, gradually lowering altitude as it approached the landing strip.
→ During the class debate, there was a noticeable dissent among the students regarding the proposed changes to the school uniform policy.
5. Foul - Fowl
Foul: (adjective) It is often used to describe something that is morally or ethically wrong.
Fowl: (noun) birds collectively, especially domesticated birds
Sentences:
→ The player was given a yellow card for a foul tackle during the soccer match.
→ The farmer takes care of a variety of fowl on his poultry farm.
6. Veil - Vale
Veil: a piece of fine material worn by women
Vale: a valley.
Sentence: The bride wore a delicate veil as she walked through the picturesque vale, creating an enchanting scene for everyone in attendance.
7. Great - Grate
Great: remarkable, outstanding or impressive in some way.
Grate: a framework of metal bars or a mesh, used for covering an opening or as a cooking surface.
Sentences:
→ The students were excited to visit the museum and see the great works of art.
→ Please be careful not to touch the hot grate on the barbecue.
8. Straight - Strait
Straight (adjective): direct and not curved or bent.
Strait (noun): a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water.
Sentences:
→ The road was long and straight, stretching out into the distance without any turns.
→ The ship navigated through the treacherous strait, carefully avoiding the rocky shores on either side.
9. Cellar - Seller
Cellar: an underground storage room, typically used for storing wine or other provisions.
Seller: a person or business that sells something.
Sentence: The wine enthusiast decided to visit the cellar, where the knowledgeable seller offered a variety of fine wines for purchase."
10. Council - Counsel
Council (Noun): a group of people who are chosen to make decisions or give advice.
Counsel (Noun/Verb): advice or guidance provided, or the act of giving advice.
Sentences:
→ The student council met to discuss ideas for improving the school's facilities.
→ The wise old man was known for offering valuable counsel to those seeking solutions to their problems.
11. Dual - Duel
Dual: refers to something that has two parts or components.
Duel: refers to a formal combat between two individuals, often with weapons, to settle a dispute.
Sentence: In the historic tale, the knight faced a dual challenge as he prepared for a duel against his sworn enemy, showcasing both his strength and strategic prowess.
12. Cereal - Serial
Cereal (meaning): a common breakfast food made from processed grains.
Serial (meaning): a story or play appearing on television or radio.
Sentences:
→ Every morning, I enjoy a bowl of cereal with milk and fresh fruit.
→ The exciting serial on TV kept us hooked with its suspenseful plot every week.
13. Birth - Berth
Birth: the emergence of a baby
Berth: a ship's allotted place at a wharf or dock
Sentences:
→ The celebration of a new birth filled the hospital with joy and excitement.
→ The captain skillfully manoeuvred the ship into its berth at the busy harbour.
14. Principle - Principal
Principle (Noun): it refers to a fundamental truth, law or guiding concept.
Principal (Noun): it refers to a person who has controlling authority, especially in an organization or school.
Sentences:
→ The teacher emphasised the importance of honesty as a guiding principle in the school.
→ The principal of the school announced new policies to enhance the learning environment.
15. Hale - Hail
Hale: in good health or free from disease.
Hail: frozen raindrops that fall in showers.
Sentences:
→ Despite his advanced age, the old man remained hale and hearty, enjoying daily walks and an active lifestyle.
→ As the storm intensified, hailstones the size of marbles began to hail down, causing damage to cars and rooftops.
16. Billed - Build
Billed (meaning): this refers to the action of presenting a bill, typically for goods or services provided.
Build (meaning): this word is related to the construction or creation of something, such as a building, structure, or idea.
Sentences:
→ The restaurant owner billed us for the delicious meal we enjoyed last night.
→ The architects worked tirelessly to build a sustainable and innovative design for the new school building.
17. Allowed - Aloud
Allowed: permitted or given permission to do something.
Aloud: audibly or in a voice that can be heard.
Sentences:
→ The teacher allowed the students to use calculators during the math exam.
→ Please read the passage aloud so that everyone in the class can hear.
18. Addition - Edition
Addition: the action or process of adding something to something else.
Edition: a particular version or form of a published text.
Sentences:
→ The addition of new features to the software greatly improved its functionality.
→ The latest edition of the dictionary includes updated definitions and new words.
19. Incite - Insight
Incite: to encourage, provoke or stimulate into action.
Insight: the ability to gain a deep understanding or perception of a situation.
Sentences:
→ The charismatic speaker tried to incite the crowd to take action against injustice.
→ The scientist's research provided valuable insight into the complexities of the human brain.
20. barren - Baron
Barren (adjective): unable to produce offspring or fruit; unproductive; not fertile.
Baron (noun): a title of nobility; a person of high rank or status, especially in the feudal system.
Sentences:
→ The barren land yielded no crops for several consecutive seasons, leaving the farmers in despair.
→ The baron, adorned in rich garments, presided over the grand banquet in the castle to celebrate his recent achievements.
Term |
Spelling |
Pronunciation |
Meaning |
Examples |
Homophones |
Different |
Same |
Different |
"Flour" (powder used in baking) and "flower" (blossom of a plant). |
Homonyms |
Same |
Same |
Different |
"Bow" (bend forward) and "bow" (weapon for shooting arrows). |
Homographs |
Same |
May/ May not |
Different |
"Tear" (to rip) and "tear" (a drop of saline fluid from the eye). |
Click here to learn about: Homophones for Class 9
1. Allowed, Aloud |
a) You are allowed to enter. b) Read the story aloud to the class. |
2. Plane, Plain |
a) The plane flew overhead. b) The background is just plain white. |
3. Weather, Whether |
a) How's the weather today? b) I can't decide whether to go or not. |
4. Piece, Peace |
a) She tore a piece of paper. b) Let's work towards peace. |
5. Capital, Capitol |
a) The capital of France is Paris. b) The capitol building is where the government meets. |
6. Desert, Dessert |
a) The Sahara is a vast desert. b) I'll have chocolate dessert after dinner. |
7. Mail, Male |
a) She sent a letter in the mail. b) The male lion roared loudly. |
8. Principal, Principle |
a) The school principal is in his office. b) Honesty is an important principle. |
9. Here, Hear |
a) Come here and listen to this. b) I can hear the birds singing. |
10. Stationary, Stationery |
a) The car is stationary. b) I need some stationery for my project. |
11. Break, Brake |
a) Let's take a break from studying. b) Step on the brake to stop the car. |
12. Sight, Site |
a) The Eiffel Tower is a famous sight. b) This is the construction site. |
13. Allowed, Aloud |
a) You are allowed to go out. b) She read the book aloud. |
14. Right, Write |
a) Turn right at the next intersection. b) Please write your name on the paper. |
15. Hair, Hare |
a) She has long brown hair. b) The hare hoppedz through the field. |
16. Bare, Bear |
a) The tree is bare in winter. b) I saw a bear in the woods. |
17. Whole, Hole |
a) She ate the whole pizza. b) There's a hole in the wall. |
18. Brake, Break |
a) Press the brake pedal to stop the car. b) He needed a break from work. |
19. Sea, See |
a) The ship sailed on the sea. b) Can you see that bird in the tree? |
20. Ball, Bawl |
a) Kick the ball into the goal. b) Don't bawl like a baby over a small scratch. |
Homonyms are words with similar spelling and pronunciation but distinct meanings. Usually, the sentence in which such words are employed indicates their meaning.
For instance, "address" can mean either a location where one resides, or it can mean a formal speech.
→ The office has a new address now.
→ The politician will address a rally tomorrow.
1. Address
→ The majestic mansion, with its intricate architecture and sprawling gardens, had an address that exuded opulence and refinement, making it a symbol of prestige in the neighbourhood.
→ The seasoned diplomat had to delicately address the sensitive geopolitical issue, employing his nuanced communication skills to navigate through the complexities of international relations.
2. Air
→ As the aviator ascended higher into the atmosphere, the thinning air posed a challenge to the aircraft's engines.
→ In the ancient text, the poet beautifully described the ethereal eyre that enveloped the mystical land, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
3. Arm
→ Despite the injury to his arm, the skilled pitcher continued to deliver fast and accurate throws, showcasing remarkable resilience and determination.
→ The nation decided to arm its military with advanced technology, ensuring a formidable defence capability in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.
4. Bright
→ The bright Sun cast its golden rays across the azure sky, creating a dazzling display of brilliance.
→ James displayed a remarkably bright intellect, easily grasping complex mathematical concepts that left his classmates in awe.
5. Express
→ She chose to express her gratitude through a heartfelt letter.
→ The courier service offers an express delivery option for urgent packages.
6. Fair
→ The judge ensured a fair trial by carefully considering all the evidence presented and making unbiased decisions.
→ Her fair complexion, accentuated by the golden sunlight, gave her a radiant and ethereal appearance.
7. Jag
→ The woodworker carefully crafted the intricate design on the edge of the table, ensuring that each jag was perfectly aligned for a polished finish.
→ The cat stealthily stalked its prey, ready to jag the elusive mouse with a swift and precise pounce.
8. Pole
→ The construction workers carefully erected the tall pole to support the framework of the new building.
→ Navigators often rely on the magnetic pole to determine their direction when sailing across vast oceans.
9. Pound
→ The chef carefully measured each ingredient, adding exactly one pound of flour to create the perfect cake.
→ The animal shelter provided a safe pound for the rescued dogs, offering them a temporary home until they could be adopted.
10. Ream
→ The diligent student needed an entire ream of paper to print out his extensive research project.
→ The skilled carpenter had to ream out the opening to ensure the perfect fit for the new doorknob.
11. Tender
→ The steak was so tender that it practically melted in my mouth with each savoury bite.
→ The company submitted a tender for the construction project, outlining their expertise and proposed costs.
12. Left
→ After making a sharp turn to the left, we found ourselves on a narrow path leading into the mysterious forest.
→ Having left the bustling city behind, Sarah embarked on a journey to explore the serene countryside.
13. well
→ Despite facing severe flu last week, she appears well today, demonstrating her resilience and strong immune system.
→ The drilling team carefully monitored the progress as they dug the well, hoping to strike a rich reservoir of natural gas beneath the earth's surface.
14. ground
→ The scientist conducted experiments in the field of genetics, making significant contributions to the scientific ground of molecular biology.
→ The archaeologists carefully excavated the ancient city, sifting through layers of soil to uncover artefacts buried beneath the ground.
15. Hopper
→ The farmer filled the seed hopper with corn kernels, ensuring a steady supply for the planting machine as it moved across the vast field.
→ The skilled gymnast transformed into a graceful hopper, executing a series of precise jumps and flips that captivated the audience during the performance.
Homonym |
Meaning 1 |
Meaning 2 |
Examples |
Bark |
the sound a dog makes |
the outer covering of a tree |
1. The dog's bark woke me up. 2. The rough bark of the tree. |
Bat |
a flying mammal |
a piece of sports equipment |
1. I saw a bat flying in the night. 2. He swung the bat. |
Bow |
to bend forward at the waist |
a weapon for shooting arrows |
1. She gave a graceful bow. 2. He aimed his bow at the target. |
Content |
satisfied and happy |
the subject matter in a book or speech |
1. He was content with his life. 2. The content of the lecture was informative. |
Desert |
a dry, sandy area |
to abandon or leave behind |
1. The Sahara is a vast desert. 2. He decided to desert his post. |
Tear |
to rip apart |
a drop of clear liquid from the eye |
1. Please don't tear the paper. 2. A tear rolled down her cheek. |
Lead |
to guide or show the way |
a heavy metal element |
1. She will lead the team. 2. The pencil has a lead core. |
Row |
a line of things or people |
to have an argument or dispute |
1. They stood in a row. 2. They had a heated row about the issue. |
Minute |
a unit of time (60 seconds) |
extremely small or detailed |
1. Wait for a minute. 2. Pay attention to minute details. |
Object |
a thing that can be seen or touched |
to express disapproval or disagreement |
1. The object on the table. 2. He will object to the decision. |
Wound |
an injury to the body |
past tense of "wind" (to twist or turn) |
1. The wound on his arm was deep. 2. He wound the rope around the post. |
Bass |
a type of fish |
low-frequency sound or musical instrument |
1. He caught a large bass. 2. The bass guitar player was impressive. |
Bow |
a decorative knot or loop |
the front of a ship |
1. She tied a beautiful bow on the gift. 2. The ship's bow pointed towards the horizon. |
Bass |
low in pitch or tone |
a type of tree |
1. The bass voice resonated. 2. The leaves fell from the bass tree. |
Desert |
to forsake or abandon |
a sweet, often creamy, after-dinner treat |
1. He decided to desert his friends. 2. The chocolate dessert was delicious. |
Row |
to propel a boat with oars |
a noisy disturbance or fight |
1. They rowed across the lake. 2. A row broke out at the bar. |
Wind |
moving air |
to twist or turn |
1. The wind was strong today. 2. He needed to wind the clock. |
Close |
near in space or time |
to shut or fasten |
1. The store is close to our house. 2. Please close the door. |
Present |
a gift |
to show or offer |
1. He received a beautiful present. 2. She will present her findings tomorrow. |
Record |
to document or save information |
a vinyl disc for playing music |
1. Record the meeting minutes. 2. He played a classic record. |
1. How to differentiate between homophones and homographs?
Answer: Homophones have the same sound but may have different spellings whereas homographs have the same spelling but may have different pronunciations and meanings.
2. Why is it important to understand homophones and homonyms?
Answer: It is important to understand homophones and homonyms because these are essential for clear writing and efficient communication.
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