Learn about the difference between the homophones: rood, rued and rude

Definitions

rood

Rood is a noun that refers to a cross or crucifix, especially one set on a beam or screen in a church.

Example

The rood screen was a common feature in medieval churches.

Example

The rood was decorated with gold and precious stones.

rued

Rued is the past tense of the verb 'rue', which means to regret or feel remorse for something.

Example

He rued the day he decided to quit his job.

Example

She rued her decision to skip the party.

rude

Rude is an adjective that describes behavior or language that is impolite, disrespectful, or offensive.

Example

It's rude to interrupt someone when they're speaking.

Example

He made a rude comment about her appearance.

Tips To Remember the Differences

Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:

To remember the difference between these words, associate rood with religion or church, rued with regret or remorse, and rude with impolite or offensive behavior.