What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
homophone
Example
The words 'flower' and 'flour' are homophones. [homophones: noun]
Example
I can't tell the difference between 'write' and 'right' because they are homophones. [homophones: noun]
homograph
Example
The word 'tear' can mean a drop of water from the eye or to rip something apart, making it a homograph. [homograph: noun]
Example
The word 'lead' can mean to guide or a heavy metal, making it a homograph. [homograph: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Homophone is more commonly used than homograph in everyday language. Homophones are often used in wordplay and puns, making them more familiar to people. Homographs are less common and may require more explanation to understand their meaning.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between homophone and homograph?
Both homophone and homograph are formal terms used in linguistics. However, homophone is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while homograph is less common and may be more appropriate for formal writing or academic discussions.
