Definitions
Slew is a noun that means a large number or quantity of something. It can also be used as a verb meaning to turn or rotate.
Example
He had a slew of books to read for his literature class.
Example
The crane slewed around to pick up the heavy load.
Slue is a verb that means to turn or twist suddenly, especially out of control. It is often used in the context of vehicles skidding or sliding off course.
Example
The car slued off the road and crashed into a tree.
Example
The boat slued around in the strong current.
Slough is a noun that refers to a swampy, marshy area or a place of deep mud or mire. It can also be used as a verb meaning to shed or cast off, especially skin or other outer covering.
Example
The slough was teeming with wildlife.
Example
The snake sloughed off its skin.
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 slew with a large quantity or rotation, slue with a sudden turn or skid, and slough with a swampy area or shedding skin.
Remember this!
Remember, slew refers to a large quantity or rotation, slue refers to a sudden turn or skid, and slough refers to a swampy area or shedding skin.
