What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
phonogram
Example
The word 'cat' has three phonograms: /k/, /a/, and /t/. [phonogram: noun]
Example
The letter 's' can represent different phonograms depending on the word it is used in. [phonogram: noun]
Example
The phonogram 'ch' represents the sound /tส/ in English. [phonogram: noun]
grapheme
Example
The word 'cat' has three graphemes: c, a, and t. [grapheme: noun]
Example
The letter 's' is a grapheme that can represent different sounds depending on the word it is used in. [grapheme: noun]
Example
The grapheme 'ch' represents the sound /tส/ in English. [grapheme: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grapheme is a more common term than phonogram in everyday language, as it is used more frequently in the context of reading and writing. However, both terms are important for understanding the structure and function of a writing system.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between phonogram and grapheme?
Both phonogram and grapheme are technical terms used in the field of linguistics, and are therefore more formal in nature. However, grapheme may be used more frequently in educational settings and is therefore more familiar to students learning to read and write.
