180 Examples of Homophones

180 Examples of Homophones

Homophones are pairs of words that sound the same but have different meanings and different spellings. 

Example of Homophones:

To/Too/Two:

To: To is a preposition, infinitive marker, or that the verb being used is in the infinitive form.

Example: They went to the mall.

Too: Too is an adverb and can indicate that something is happening in addition to another thing.

Example: My sister wanted some candy too.

Two: Two is the number that falls between one and three.

Example: Can you please get me two bananas?

180 Examples of Homophones list

Here are 180 Homophones in English.

List of Homophones with meaning and sentences

abel / able

• abel: proper noun, a biblical character
  • Example: Abel offered a sacrifice to God.
• able: having the necessary power, skill, or resources to accomplish a task
  • Example: She is able to solve complex mathematical problems.

accede / exceed

• accede: to agree to a request or demand
  • Example: The board will accede to the shareholders’ demands.
• exceed: to go beyond a certain limit or level
  • Example: The company’s profits exceed expectations.

accept / except

• accept: to receive willingly
  • Example: She accepted the gift with gratitude.
• except: to exclude or leave out
  • Example: Everyone is going to the party except Tom.

addition / edition

• addition: the act of adding something to something else
  • Example: The addition of sugar makes the cake sweeter.
• edition: a particular version or issue of a publication
  • Example: The new edition of the dictionary includes updated vocabulary.

all ready / already

• all ready: completely prepared
  • Example: We are all ready to leave for the trip.
• already: by this time; prior to a specified or implied time
  • Example: I have already finished my homework.

ax / acts

• ax: a tool used for chopping wood
  • Example: He used the ax to chop firewood.
• acts: deeds or actions, usually performed by someone
  • Example: His acts of kindness endeared him to everyone.

axel / axle

• axel: a figure skating jump
  • Example: She executed a perfect axel during her performance.
• axle: a central shaft for a rotating wheel or gear
  • Example: The car’s axle needed to be replaced.

axes / axis

• axes: plural of “ax” or the plural form of “axis”
  • Example: He wielded two axes in battle.
• axis: a straight line around which something rotates
  • Example: The Earth rotates on its axis.

aye / eye / I

• aye: yes; an affirmative vote
  • Example: He responded with an enthusiastic “aye.”
• eye: the organ of sight
  • Example: She has beautiful blue eyes.
• I: the first person singular pronoun
  • Example: I am going to the store.

ayes / eyes

• ayes: plural of “aye”
  • Example: The ayes have it; the motion is carried.
• eyes: plural of “eye”
  • Example: She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

bawl / ball

• bawl: to cry loudly
  • Example: The baby began to bawl when his toy was taken away.
• ball: a spherical object used in various games and sports
  • Example: Let’s play catch with the ball.

brake / break

• brake: a device for slowing or stopping motion
  • Example: He applied the brake to stop the car.
• break: to separate into pieces
  • Example: Be careful not to break the glass.

been / bin

• been: past participle of “be”
  • Example: I have been to Paris before.
• bin: a container for storing items
  • Example: Please throw the rubbish in the bin.

beer / bier

• beer: an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains
  • Example: He ordered a pint of beer at the bar.
• bier: a stand on which a corpse or coffin is placed before burial
  • Example: They carried the casket on the bier to the cemetery.

bury / berry

• bury: to place a dead body in the ground
  • Example: They will bury their pet in the backyard.
• berry: a small, round fruit
  • Example: She picked some ripe berries from the bush.

bussed / bust

• bussed: past tense of “bus,” meaning to transport by bus
  • Example: They bussed the students to the museum.
• bust: a sculpture depicting a person’s head, shoulders, and chest
  • Example: The museum had a collection of busts of famous historical figures.

but / butt

• but: however; except for
  • Example: She wanted to go, but she had to work.
• butt: the end part of something, such as a cigarette or a rifle
  • Example: He stubbed out the cigarette butt in the ashtray.

buy / by / bye

• buy: to purchase something in exchange for money
  • Example: She decided to buy a new dress for the party.
• by: next to or alongside something/someone; through a method or means
  • Example: She walked by the river.
• bye: a shortened form of “goodbye”
  • Example: He waved bye as he left for work.

byte / bight

• byte: a unit of digital information consisting of eight bits
  • Example: The file size is measured in bytes.
• bight: a bend or curve in a coastline or a rope
  • Example: They anchored the boat in the sheltered bight of the bay.

cache / cash

• cache: a hidden storage space for temporary files or data
  • Example: The web browser stores cache files to improve loading speed.
• cash: money in the form of coins or banknotes
  • Example: He withdrew some cash from the ATM.

caddie / caddy

• caddie: a person who carries a golfer’s clubs
  • Example: The caddie handed him the putter.
• caddy: a container for holding items, typically used for tea or golf clubs
  • Example: She placed the teapot on the caddy.

cain / cane

• cain: a biblical character, the first son of Adam and Eve
  • Example: Cain killed his brother Abel.
• cane: a long, slender stick used as a support or walking aid
  • Example: He leaned on a cane as he walked.

cheap / cheep

• cheap: low in price; inexpensive
  • Example: She found a cheap hotel for her vacation.
• cheep: a short, high-pitched sound made by a small bird or chick
  • Example: The baby chicks cheeped in the nest.

chews / choose

• chews: third person singular present tense of “chew,” meaning to bite and grind with the teeth
  • Example: The dog chews on his bone.
• choose: to select or pick from a number of alternatives
  • Example: I will choose the blue dress for the party.

cell / sell

• cell: a small room, often in a prison or monastery; also, a basic structural and functional unit of living organisms
  • Example: He spent the night in a jail cell.
• sell: to exchange goods or services for money
  • Example: She decided to sell her old car.

chic / sheik

• chic: stylish; fashionable
  • Example: She always dresses in a chic and elegant manner.
• sheik: an Arab chief, prince, or ruler
  • Example: The sheik welcomed the travelers to his desert oasis.

click / clique

• click: to make a short, sharp sound, or to press a button on a computer mouse
  • Example: He heard the click of the door closing behind him.
• clique: a small, exclusive group of people
  • Example: The popular girls formed a clique at school.

climb / clime

• climb: to ascend or move upward, especially using the hands and feet
  • Example: They began to climb the steep mountain.
• clime: a region with a particular climate
  • Example: They preferred to vacation in warmer climes during the winter.

clique / click

• clique: a small, exclusive group of people
  • Example: She felt excluded from the popular clique at school.
• click: to make a short, sharp sound, or to press a button on a computer mouse
  • Example: He clicked on the link to open the webpage.

colonel / kernel

• colonel: a military rank above lieutenant colonel and below brigadier general
  • Example: The colonel led his troops into battle.
• kernel: a softer, usually edible part of a seed or nut; also, the core or essential part of something
  • Example: She found a popcorn kernel stuck in her teeth.

coolie / coulee

• coolie: an unskilled laborer, especially from Asia
  • Example: The coolie carried heavy loads at the construction site.
• coulee: a deep ravine or gully, typically with a stream running through it
  • Example: They hiked through the coulee to reach the waterfall.

coop / coupe

• coop: a cage or enclosure for poultry
  • Example: The chickens pecked at the grain in the coop.
• coupe: a car with a fixed roof and two doors
  • Example: He drove a sleek coupe through the city streets.

cops / copse

• cops: colloquial term for police officers
  • Example: The cops arrived at the scene of the crime.
• copse: a small group of trees
  • Example: They had a picnic in the shade of the copse.

coral / choral

• coral: a hard substance secreted by certain marine polyps and forming reefs
  • Example: The divers explored the colorful coral reefs.
• choral: relating to or sung by a choir or chorus
  • Example: They sang choral hymns at the church service.

cord / cored

• cord: a thin, flexible string or rope
  • Example: She tied the package with a length of cord.
• cored: past tense of “core,” meaning to remove the core or central part from something
  • Example: She cored the apple before slicing it.

core / corps

• core: the central or most important part of something
  • Example: The core of the argument was difficult to discern.
• corps: a main subdivision of an armed force, typically consisting of two or more divisions
  • Example: He served in the Marine Corps for ten years.

cored / chord

• cored: past tense of “core,” meaning to remove the core or central part from something
  • Example: She cored the apple before slicing it.
• chord: a group of three or more musical notes sounded together
  • Example: He played a beautiful chord on the guitar.

corps / core

• corps: a main subdivision of an armed force, typically consisting of two or more divisions
  • Example: The army corps moved into position for the battle.
• core: the central or most important part of something
  • Example: The core of the argument was difficult to discern.

coughers / coffers

• coughers: those who cough
  • Example: The coughers in the audience disrupted the play.
• coffers: a chest or box used for keeping valuables
  • Example: The king’s coffers were filled with gold and jewels.

coulee / coolie

• coulee: a deep ravine or gully, typically with a stream running through it
  • Example: They hiked through the coulee to reach the waterfall.
• coolie: an unskilled laborer, especially from Asia
  • Example: The coolie carried heavy loads at the construction site.

council / counsel

• council: a group of people elected or appointed to make decisions or provide advice
  • Example: The city council approved the new budget.
• counsel: advice or guidance, especially as given by a lawyer or other legal expert
  • Example: She sought counsel from her attorney before signing the contract.

coup / coo

• coup: a sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government
  • Example: The military coup overthrow the dictator.
• coo: the soft murmuring sound made by a dove or pigeon
  • Example: The doves cooed in the trees outside her window.

course / coarse

• course: a direction or route taken by something moving
  • Example: The ship changed its course to avoid the storm.
• coarse: rough or harsh in texture
  • Example: The fabric was too coarse for her sensitive skin.

cousin / cozen

• cousin: a child of one’s uncle or aunt
  • Example: She visited her cousin during the holidays.
• cozen: to cheat or deceive
  • Example: He tried to cozen her into signing the contract.

coward / cowered

• coward: a person who lacks courage in facing danger or difficulty
  • Example: He was branded a coward for fleeing the battle.
• cowered: past tense of “cower,” meaning to crouch down in fear
  • Example: The frightened dog cowered in the corner.

coy / koi

• coy: shy or modest; pretending to be reluctant
  • Example: She gave him a coy smile.
• koi: a colorful ornamental fish, often kept in ponds
  • Example: The koi fish swam gracefully in the pond.

cozen / cousin

• cozen: to cheat or deceive
  • Example: He tried to cozen her into signing the contract.
• cousin: a child of one’s uncle or aunt
  • Example: She visited her cousin during the holidays.

craft / kraft

• craft: an activity involving skill in making things by hand
  • Example: She enjoyed various crafting hobbies such as knitting and scrapbooking.
• kraft: strong, brown paper used for wrapping or packaging
  • Example: The package was wrapped in kraft paper.

crape / crepe

• crape: a thin fabric with a crinkled surface
  • Example: She wore a black crape veil to the funeral.
• crepe: a thin, light pancake
  • Example: They enjoyed crepes filled with strawberries and cream.

crawl / kraal

• crawl: to move forward on the hands and knees
  • Example: The baby learned to crawl before learning to walk.
• kraal: a traditional African village or enclosure for livestock
  • Example: The cattle were kept in the kraal at night.

creak / creek

• creak: a harsh, high-pitched sound made by something old or damaged when it moves
  • Example: The old door creaked as it opened.
• creek: a narrow stream or a small, shallow river
  • Example: They went fishing in the creek behind their house.

crepe / crape

• crepe: a thin, light pancake or a fabric with a crinkled surface
  • Example: She ordered a crepe filled with strawberries and cream.
• crape: a type of fabric used for mourning garments; also, a tree with colorful flowers
  • Example: She wore a black crape veil to the funeral.

crewel / cruel

• crewel: a type of yarn used for embroidery
  • Example: She embroidered the design using crewel wool.
• cruel: causing pain or suffering; unkind
  • Example: It was cruel to abandon the puppy on the street.

dense / dents

• dense: closely compacted; thick
  • Example: The fog was so dense that they could barely see.
• dents: marks or indentations made by pressure or force
  • Example: The car door had several dents from the accident.

descent / dissent

• descent: the act of moving downwards
  • Example: The airplane began its descent towards the airport.
• dissent: disagreement or opposition to a prevailing opinion or belief
  • Example: Several members of the committee voiced their dissent.

dun / done

• dun: to make persistent demands for payment of a debt
  • Example: The landlord dunned him for the overdue rent.
• done: past participle of “do”; finished or completed
  • Example: Dinner is done and ready to serve.

dye / die

• dye: a substance used to color things
  • Example: She dyed her hair red for the party.
• die: to cease living; also, a small cube with dots on each side used in games of chance
  • Example: The old tree will eventually die if not treated.

dyeing / dying

• dyeing: the process of coloring things using dye
  • Example: She learned the art of fabric dyeing.
• dying: in the process of ceasing to live; near death
  • Example: The doctor attended to the dying patient.

fare / fair

• fare: the money paid for transportation; also, food
  • Example: The taxi fare was higher than expected.
• fair: just and impartial; also, an event where goods are bought and sold
  • Example: She won a prize at the county fair.

fate / fete

• fate: the development of events beyond a person’s control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power
  • Example: He believed in fate and destiny.
• fete: a celebration or festival
  • Example: They attended the village fete in the summer.

faun / fawn

• faun: a mythical creature, half human and half goat, often depicted in art and literature
  • Example: The faun played a flute in the forest.
• fawn: a young deer; also, to flatter someone excessively
  • Example: The mother deer groomed her fawn.

fax / facts

• fax: a method of transmitting documents electronically over a telephone line
  • Example: He sent the contract by fax.
• facts: information that is known to be true
  • Example: The report was based on verified facts.

faze / phase

• faze: to disturb or disconcert
  • Example: The criticism didn’t faze her.
• phase: a distinct period or stage in a process of change or development
  • Example: He’s going through a rebellious phase.

feat / feet

• feat: an achievement that requires great skill or courage
  • Example: Climbing Mount Everest is a remarkable feat.
• feet: the plural form of “foot”
  • Example: She stood on her tiptoes to reach the shelf with her feet.

feint / faint

• feint: a deceptive or pretended blow, thrust, or other movement
  • Example: He made a feint to the left before striking.
• faint: lacking in strength or clarity; barely perceptible
  • Example: She felt faint from the heat.

fends / fens

• fends: takes care of oneself; defends
  • Example: He fends for himself since he moved out.
• fens: low-lying, marshy areas, often used for pasture
  • Example: The cattle grazed in the fens.

flour / flower

• flour: a powder obtained by grinding grain, typically wheat, and used to make bread, cakes, and pastry
  • Example: She sifted the flour before baking.
• flower: the reproductive structure found in flowering plants; also, a bloom or blossom
  • Example: The garden was filled with colorful flowers.

flow / floe

• flow: the steady, continuous movement or supply of something
  • Example: The river’s flow was swift after the rain.
• floe: a large, flat mass of ice floating at sea
  • Example: They navigated their boat around the ice floe.

flower / flour

• flower: the reproductive structure found in flowering plants; also, a bloom or blossom
  • Example: She picked a bouquet of wildflowers.
• flour: a powder obtained by grinding grain, typically wheat, and used to make bread, cakes, and pastry
  • Example: She sifted the flour before baking.

flu / flue / flew

• flu: short for influenza; a contagious respiratory illness
  • Example: He caught the flu and had to stay home from work.
• flue: a duct or pipe for directing gases from a fireplace, furnace, or stove to the outdoors
  • Example: They cleaned the chimney flue before winter.
• flew: past tense of “fly”
  • Example: The bird flew away when they approached.

flyer / flier

• flyer: a printed advertisement or promotional material
  • Example: She handed out flyers advertising the concert.
• flier: someone or something that flies; also, a risky or adventurous undertaking
  • Example: He’s a frequent flier, always traveling for work.

foaled / fold

• foaled: past tense of “foal,” meaning to give birth to a young horse
  • Example: The mare foaled in the middle of the night.
• fold: to bend something over itself so that one part of it lies on the other part
  • Example: She folded the letter and put it in an envelope.

fort / forte

• fort: a fortified building or strategic position used for defense
  • Example: They visited the old fort at the edge of town.
• forte: a person’s strong point; something at which someone excels
  • Example: Her forte is playing the piano.

forward / foreword

• forward: towards a position ahead or in front
  • Example: He took a step forward.
• foreword: an introductory section in a book, typically written by someone other than the author
  • Example: The author wrote a heartfelt foreword to her novel.

foul / fowl

• foul: offensive to the senses; also, a violation of rules in sports
  • Example: The smell was foul and unpleasant.
• fowl: a bird, especially a domesticated one such as a chicken or turkey
  • Example: They raised fowl on their farm.

four / fore / for

• four: the number after three and before five
  • Example: There are four chairs at the table.
• fore: situated or placed in front; also, a warning shouted to people in a potentially dangerous situation
  • Example: The fore deck of the ship was crowded with passengers.
• for: used to indicate the object or recipient of an action
  • Example: She bought a gift for her friend’s birthday.

fourth / forth

• fourth: coming after the third in order
  • Example: He finished fourth in the race.
• forth: out; forward in time, place, or order
  • Example: She stepped forth to accept the award.

graphed / graft

• graphed: past tense of “graph,” meaning to plot or draw on a graph
  • Example: She graphed the data to analyze the trends.
• graft: a piece of living tissue transplanted surgically
  • Example: The surgeon performed a skin graft on the burn victim.

heroin / heroine

• heroin: a highly addictive drug derived from morphine, used as a recreational drug and pain reliever
  • Example: He struggled with addiction to heroin.
• heroine: a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities
  • Example: She was hailed as a heroine for saving the child from the burning building.

hertz / hurts

• hertz: the unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second
  • Example: The radio operates on a frequency of 100 hertz.
• hurts: causes physical pain or injury
  • Example: It hurts when I touch the bruise.

hew / hue

• hew: to chop or cut something with an axe or other sharp tool
  • Example: He hewed the logs to build a cabin.
• hue: a shade or tint of color
  • Example: The artist mixed blue and yellow to create a green hue.

hear / here

• hear: to perceive sounds with the ears
  • Example: Can you hear the music playing?
• here: in or to this place or position
  • Example: I am here waiting for you.

heal / heel

• heal: to become healthy or whole again
  • Example: Time will heal your wounds.
• heel: the back part of the foot below the ankle
  • Example: She wore high-heeled shoes to the party.

hour / our

• hour: a period of sixty minutes
  • Example: The movie lasts for two hours.
• our: belonging to us
  • Example: This is our house.

hoes / hose

• hoes: plural of “hoe,” a gardening tool used for cultivating soil
  • Example: She used hoes to weed the garden.
• hose: a flexible tube conveying water or other fluid; also, a close-fitting garment covering the legs and feet worn by dancers or women
  • Example: He watered the plants with a garden hose.

idle / idol

• idle: inactive or not in use; also, lazy
  • Example: He sat idle all day instead of working.
• idol: an image or representation of a god used as an object of worship; also, a person or thing that is greatly admired, loved, or revered
  • Example: She was a teenage idol to many of her fans.

incite / insight

• incite: to encourage or stir up violent or unlawful behavior
  • Example: His speech incited the crowd to riot.
• insight: the ability to understand people and situations in a very clear way
  • Example: Her insight into human behavior was remarkable.

jam / jamb

• jam: a sweet spread made from fruit and sugar; also, a crowded or blocked situation
  • Example: She spread jam on her toast for breakfast.
• jamb: the side post of a doorway or window frame
  • Example: He leaned against the jamb of the door.

jean / gene

• jean: a durable twilled cotton cloth, typically blue, used for jeans, overalls, and other clothing
  • Example: She wore a pair of denim jeans.
• gene: a unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and is held to determine some characteristic of the offspring
  • Example: The gene for eye color is passed down from parents to children.

jell / gel

• jell: to become firm or solid, typically as a result of cooling
  • Example: The jelly will jell as it cools.
• gel: a thick, jelly-like substance; also, a substance with a consistency like jelly, used in cosmetics, medicine, and food
  • Example: She applied hair gel to style her hair.

jibe / gibe

• jibe: to be in agreement with
  • Example: His explanation didn’t jibe with the facts.
• gibe: to make insulting or mocking remarks
  • Example: He couldn’t resist making a gibe about her outfit.

knight / night

• knight: a man who served his sovereign or lord as a mounted soldier in armor
  • Example: He was knighted by the queen for his bravery.
• night: the period of darkness between sunset and sunrise
  • Example: They went for a walk in the park at night.

kernel / colonel

• kernel: the softer, usually edible part of a nut, seed, or fruit stone contained within its hard shell; also, the central or most important part of something
  • Example: She cracked open the walnut to get to the kernel inside.
• colonel: a rank in the army, above lieutenant colonel and below brigadier general
  • Example: The colonel led his troops into battle.

knap / nap

• knap: to break sharply or abruptly
  • Example: She knapped the flint to create a sharp edge.
• nap: a short sleep, especially during the day
  • Example: He took a quick nap before starting work.

knave / nave

• knave: a dishonest or unscrupulous man
  • Example: He was known as a knave and a cheat.
• nave: the central part of a church building, intended to accommodate most of the congregation
  • Example: The sunlight streamed through the windows of the nave.

knot / not

• knot: a fastening made by looping a piece of string, rope, or something similar on itself and tightening it
  • Example: She tied a knot in the shoelaces.
• not: used to express negation or refusal
  • Example: I do not want any more cake.

ladder / latter

• ladder: a piece of equipment consisting of a series of bars or steps between two upright lengths of wood, metal, or rope, used for climbing up or down something
  • Example: He climbed the ladder to reach the roof.
• latter: denoting the second or second mentioned of two people or things
  • Example: She had to choose between the former option and the latter one.

lade / laid

• lade: to load or unload (a cargo, ship, etc.)
  • Example: They laded the cargo onto the ship.
• laid: past tense and past participle of “lay”
  • Example: She laid the book on the table.

lain / lane

• lain: past participle of “lie” (to recline or be situated)
  • Example: The dog had lain in the sun all afternoon.
• lane: a narrow road or street, typically with buildings or trees on either side
  • Example: They walked down the country lane.

lays / laze

• lays: third person singular present tense of “lay”
  • Example: He lays the groundwork for future projects.
• laze: to spend time in a relaxed, lazy manner
  • Example: They lazed around in the hammock all afternoon.

lea / lee

• lea: an open area of grassy or arable land
  • Example: They picnicked on the lea beside the river.
• lee: the sheltered side, or the side away from the wind
  • Example: They anchored their boat in the lee of the island.

leach / leech

• leach: to remove soluble substances from a material, typically by washing it with water
  • Example: Rain leached the nutrients from the soil.
• leech: a bloodsucking worm; also, a person who extorts profit from or sponges on others
  • Example: They used leeches to extract blood from patients in medieval medicine.

lead / led

• lead: to show the way to a destination by going in front of or beside someone
  • Example: She will lead the hiking group through the forest.
• led: past tense and past participle of “lead”
  • Example: He led the team to victory.

leak / leek

• leak: (of a container or covering) accidentally lose or admit contents, especially liquid or gas, through a hole or crack
  • Example: The roof began to leak during the heavy rain.
• leek: a plant related to the onion, with flat overlapping leaves forming an elongated cylindrical bulb that together with the leaf bases is eaten as a vegetable
  • Example: She used leeks in her soup recipe.

lean / lien

• lean: to incline or bend from a vertical position
  • Example: He leaned against the wall for support.
• lien: a right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged
  • Example: The bank placed a lien on the house until the mortgage was paid off.

leased / least

• leased: past tense and past participle of “lease”
  • Example: They leased the office space for five years.
• least: smallest in amount, extent, or significance
  • Example: This is the least I can do for you.

led / lead

• led: past tense and past participle of “lead”
  • Example: She led the team to victory.
• lead: to guide or conduct someone or something to a destination
  • Example: He will lead the expedition into the wilderness.

lee / lea

• lee: the sheltered side, or the side away from the wind
  • Example: They anchored their boat in the lee of the island.
• lea: an open area of grassy or arable land
  • Example: They picnicked on the lea beside the river.

leech / leach

• leech: a bloodsucking worm; also, a person who extorts profit from or sponges on others
  • Example: They used leeches to extract blood from patients in medieval medicine.
• leach: to remove soluble substances from a material, typically by washing it with water
  • Example: Rain leached the nutrients from the soil.

liar / lier

• liar: a person who tells lies
  • Example: He is a notorious liar and cannot be trusted.
• lier: one who lies in a certain position
  • Example: The lier on the couch was fast asleep.

lie / lye

• lie: to recline or be situated in a horizontal position
  • Example: He likes to lie in the sun on warm afternoons.
• lye: a strongly alkaline solution, especially of potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide
  • Example: She used lye to make soap.

lien / lean

• lien: a right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged
  • Example: The bank placed a lien on the house until the mortgage was paid off.
• lean: to incline or bend from a vertical position
  • Example: He leaned against the wall for support.

moan / mown

• moan: a long, low sound made by a person expressing physical or mental suffering or sexual pleasure
  • Example: She let out a moan of pain.
• mown: past participle of “mow”
  • Example: The grass had been freshly mown.

moat / mote

• moat: a deep, wide ditch, typically filled with water, surrounding a fortified medieval town, fortress, or castle as a defense against attack
  • Example: The castle was surrounded by a deep moat.
• mote: a tiny piece of a substance
  • Example: A mote of dust floated in the sunlight.

mode / mowed

• mode: a way or manner in which something occurs or is experienced, expressed, or done
  • Example: He prefers to work in silent mode.
• mowed: past tense and past participle of “mow”
  • Example: He mowed the lawn yesterday.

mood / mooed

• mood: a temporary state of mind or feeling
  • Example: She was in a cheerful mood after receiving good news.
• mooed: made the characteristic deep vocal sound of a cow
  • Example: The cow mooed loudly in the pasture.

moose / mousse

• moose: a large deer with palmate antlers, found in northern forests of North America, Europe, and Asia
  • Example: They spotted a moose grazing in the clearing.
• mousse: a light, fluffy dessert made with whipped cream, eggs, and flavorings
  • Example: She served chocolate mousse for dessert.

morn / mourn

• morn: poetic or archaic term for “morning”
  • Example: The sun rose bright and early on the morn of their wedding day.
• mourn: to feel or express sorrow or grief
  • Example: They mourned the loss of their beloved pet.

nickers / knickers

• nickers: slang term for “underpants”
  • Example: He accidentally flashed his nickers when his pants fell down.
• knickers: short trousers that end above the knee, typically worn by women or young girls; also, old-fashioned term for “underpants”
  • Example: She wore a pair of lace knickers under her dress.

niece / Nice

• niece: a daughter of one’s brother or sister
  • Example: She adored her niece and spoiled her with gifts.
• Nice: a city in southeastern France, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere
  • Example: They spent their vacation in Nice, exploring the Mediterranean coast.

oh / owe

• oh: used to express surprise, joy, or other strong emotions
  • Example: Oh, what a lovely surprise!
• owe: to be under obligation to pay or repay money, gratitude, or a favor
  • Example: I owe you a debt of gratitude for your help.

one / won

• one: the numerical value equal to the sum of zero and one
  • Example: She had only one apple left.
• won: past tense and past participle of “win”
  • Example: They won the championship last year.

owe / oh

• owe: to be under obligation to pay or repay money, gratitude, or a favor
  • Example: He owes a large sum of money to the bank.
• oh: used to express surprise, joy, or other strong emotions
  • Example: Oh, I didn’t expect to see you here!

padded / patted

• padded: having a soft, cushioned surface
  • Example: The chair had padded seats for extra comfort.
• patted: past tense and past participle of “pat”
  • Example: She patted the dog on the head.

paean / paeon

• paean: a song of praise or triumph
  • Example: The crowd erupted into a paean of celebration.
• paeon: a metrical foot used in both poetry and music, typically consisting of one stressed syllable followed by three unstressed syllables
  • Example: The poem followed a strict rhythm of paeons.

pail / pale

• pail: a bucket
  • Example: He filled the pail with water from the well.
• pale: light in color or having little color; also, lacking intensity or brightness
  • Example: Her face turned pale when she heard the news.

pain / pane

• pain: physical or mental suffering or discomfort
  • Example: He winced in pain as the doctor removed the splinter.
• pane: a single sheet of glass in a window or door
  • Example: She cleaned the fingerprints off the window pane.

pair / pare

• pair: two corresponding things designed for use together
  • Example: She bought a pair of matching shoes.
• pare: to trim or cut off the outermost part of something
  • Example: She pared the apple before eating it.

pale / pail

• pale: light in color or having little color; also, lacking intensity or brightness
  • Example: Her face turned pale when she heard the news.
• pail: a bucket
  • Example: He filled the pail with water from the well.

poor / pour

• poor: lacking sufficient money or resources; inferior in quality
  • Example: They lived in a poor neighborhood.
• pour: to cause a liquid to flow from a container in a steady stream
  • Example: She poured the milk into a glass.

parish / perish

• parish: a local church community served by a priest
  • Example: They attended services at the parish church every Sunday.
• perish: to suffer death, typically in a violent, sudden, or untimely way
  • Example: Without food or water, they would surely perish in the desert.

real / reel

• real: actually existing as a thing or occurring in fact; not imagined or supposed
  • Example: The threat of war is a real possibility.
• reel: a cylindrical object around which material can be wound, typically for storage or transport
  • Example: She wound the fishing line onto the reel.

root / route

• root: the part of a plant that attaches it to the ground, typically underground, conveying water and nourishment to the rest of the plant
  • Example: She dug up the roots of the tree.
• route: a way or course taken in getting from a starting point to a destination
  • Example: They planned their route carefully before starting the journey.

rose / rows

• rose: past tense of “rise”
  • Example: She rose from her seat and walked to the door.
• rows: plural of “row,” a line of things, typically arranged side by side
  • Example: They planted rows of corn in the field.

rows / rose

• rows: plural of “row,” a line of things, typically arranged side by side
  • Example: They planted rows of corn in the field.
• rose: past tense of “rise”
  • Example: She rose from her seat and walked to the door.

rude / rued

• rude: offensively impolite or ill-mannered
  • Example: He made a rude comment about her appearance.
• rued: past tense and past participle of “rue,” meaning to bitterly regret
  • Example: He rued the day he decided to quit his job.

rue / roux

• rue: to bitterly regret or feel remorse for
  • Example: She would rue the decision to leave her job.
• roux: a mixture of fat and flour used to thicken sauces and soups
  • Example: She made a roux for the gumbo.

right / write

• right: morally good, justified, or acceptable
  • Example: It’s not right to treat people that way.
• write: to mark (letters, words, or other symbols) on a surface, typically paper, with a pen, pencil, or similar implement
  • Example: She wrote a letter to her friend.

rued / rude

• rued: past tense and past participle of “rue,” meaning to bitterly regret
  • Example: He rued the day he decided to quit his job.
• rude: offensively impolite or ill-mannered
  • Example: He made a rude comment about her appearance.

sea / see

• sea: the expanse of saltwater that covers most of the earth’s surface and surrounds its landmasses
  • Example: They went for a swim in the sea.
• see: to perceive with the eyes; to observe
  • Example: She could see the mountains in the distance.

sole / soul

• sole: the underside of the foot or shoe
  • Example: She felt a pebble under her sole as she walked.
• soul: the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being, regarded as immortal
  • Example: She believed that music touched the soul.

son / sun

• son: a male offspring; a boy or man in relation to his parents
  • Example: He was proud of his son’s accomplishments.
• sun: the star around which the earth orbits, whose light and heat sustain life on earth
  • Example: They sat in the garden enjoying the warmth of the sun.

steal / steel

• steal: to take (another person’s property) without permission or legal right and without intending to return it
  • Example: She stole money from her parents’ purse.
• steel: a hard, strong, gray or bluish-gray alloy of iron with carbon and usually other elements
  • Example: The bridge was made of steel.

suite / sweet

• suite: a set of rooms designated for one person’s or one group’s use or for a particular purpose
  • Example: They booked a suite at the hotel for their honeymoon.
• sweet: having the pleasant taste characteristic of sugar or honey; not salty, sour, or bitter
  • Example: She enjoyed a piece of sweet chocolate cake.

stationary / stationery

• stationary: not moving or not intended to be moved
  • Example: The car was stationary at the red light.
• stationery: writing paper and other office materials
  • Example: She bought some new stationery for her desk.

stair / stare

• stair: a series of steps leading from one floor of a building to another
  • Example: She climbed the stair to the second floor.
• stare: to look fixedly or vacantly at someone or something with one’s eyes wide open
  • Example: She stared at the painting on the wall.

their / there

• their: belonging to or associated with people or things previously mentioned or easily identified
  • Example: They left their bags on the table.
• there: in, at, or to that place or position
  • Example: The keys are over there on the shelf.

troop / troupe

• troop: a group of soldiers, especially a cavalry unit commanded by a captain, or an airborne unit
  • Example: The troop marched in formation.
• troupe: a group of dancers, actors, or other performers who tour to different venues
  • Example: She joined a traveling circus troupe.

trussed / trust

• trussed: tied up or bound securely
  • Example: The chicken was trussed and ready for roasting.
• trust: firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something
  • Example: Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship.

turn / tern

• turn: to move or cause to move in a circular direction wholly or partly around an axis or point
  • Example: She turned the doorknob and opened the door.
• tern: a seabird of the gull family, typically smaller and more slender than a gull, with long pointed wings and a forked tail
  • Example: They watched the terns diving for fish at the beach.

tutor / tooter

• tutor: a private teacher, typically one who teaches a single student or a very small group
  • Example: She hired a math tutor to help her with algebra.
• tooter: someone or something that toots, typically referring to the sound of a horn or whistle
  • Example: The little boy proudly showed off his toy tooter.

tux / tucks

• tux: informal short form of “tuxedo,” a man’s semiformal evening suit, typically black or dark blue
  • Example: He wore a stylish tux to the wedding.
• tucks: plural of “tuck,” a fold or pleat in fabric, especially one that is sewn or stitched in place
  • Example: She added tucks to the curtains to give them a tailored look.

to / too / two

• to: expressing motion in the direction of (a particular location)
  • Example: She walked to the store.
• too: to a higher degree than is desirable, permissible, or possible; excessively
  • Example: He ate too much cake at the party.
• two: the number equivalent to the sum of one plus one; one more than one
  • Example: They have two dogs as pets.

tail / tale

• tail: the hindmost part of an animal, especially when extended beyond the rest of the body
  • Example: The dog wagged its tail in excitement.
• tale: a fictitious or true narrative or story, especially one that is imaginatively recounted
  • Example: She read a fairy tale to her children before bedtime.

urn / earn

• urn: a tall, rounded vase with a narrow neck, used for holding the ashes of the cremated dead
  • Example: They placed the urn containing his ashes on the mantelpiece.
• earn: to receive money in return for work or services performed
  • Example: She worked hard to earn a promotion.

use / ewes

• use: the act of employing something for a purpose; also, the state of being used
  • Example: She made good use of her time by studying.
• ewes: female sheep
  • Example: The farmer separated the rams from the ewes during mating season.

vale / veil

• vale: a valley, especially one that is narrow or wooded
  • Example: They hiked through the scenic vale in the mountains.
• veil: a piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face or head
  • Example: The bride wore a delicate lace veil at her wedding.

vane / vein

• vane: a flat blade or plate that is pivoted freely to turn in the wind and indicate the direction from which it is blowing
  • Example: The weather vane on top of the barn pointed north.
• vein: a blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart; also, a distinctive quality or feature
  • Example: The doctor inserted the needle into the vein in her arm.

vary / very

• vary: to change or differ in some way
  • Example: The colors of the leaves vary depending on the season.
• very: used to emphasize the degree or extent of something
  • Example: She was feeling very tired after the long journey.

veil / vale

• veil: a piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face or head
  • Example: The bride wore a delicate lace veil at her wedding.
• vale: a valley, especially one that is narrow or wooded
  • Example: They hiked through the scenic vale in the mountains.

vein / vain

• vein: a blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart; also, a distinctive quality or feature
  • Example: The doctor inserted the needle into the vein in her arm.
• vain: having or showing an excessively high opinion of one’s appearance, abilities, or worth
  • Example: She was too vain to admit that she had made a mistake.

ways / weighs

• ways: plural of “way,” a method, style, or manner of doing something
  • Example: There are many ways to solve this problem.
• weighs: third person singular present tense of “weigh”
  • Example: She weighs herself every morning on the bathroom scale.

we / wee

• we: used by a speaker to refer to himself or herself and one or more other people considered together
  • Example: We went to the beach for a picnic.
• wee: very small; tiny
  • Example: She found a wee kitten hiding under the porch.

we’ll / wheel

• we’ll: contraction of “we will”
  • Example: We’ll meet you at the restaurant at 7 p.m.
• wheel: a circular object that revolves on an axle and forms part of a machine or device
  • Example: He turned the steering wheel to the left.

weak / week

• weak: lacking the power to perform physically demanding tasks; also, lacking in force or effectiveness
  • Example: He felt weak after being sick for several days.
• week: a period of seven days
  • Example: She has an appointment with the doctor next week.

wear / where

• wear: to have (something) on one’s body as clothing, decoration, or protection
  • Example: She likes to wear colorful scarves in the winter.
• where: in or to what place or position
  • Example: Where did you put your keys?

weave / we’ve

• weave: to form (fabric or a fabric item) by interlacing long threads passing in one direction with others at a right angle to them
  • Example: She learned how to weave baskets from willow branches.
• we’ve: contraction of “we have”
  • Example: We’ve finished our homework, so now we can relax.

wretch / retch

• wretch: an unfortunate or unhappy person
  • Example: He felt like a wretch after losing his job.
• retch: to make the sound and movement of vomiting
  • Example: The smell of rotten eggs made her retch.

wring / ring

• wring: to squeeze and twist (something) to force liquid from it
  • Example: She wrung out the wet cloth before hanging it to dry.
• ring: a circular band, typically of precious metal, worn as an ornamental piece of jewelry
  • Example: She admired the diamond ring on her finger.

weather / whether

• weather: the state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time, especially as regards heat, dryness, sunshine, wind, rain, etc.
  • Example: The weather forecast predicts rain for tomorrow.
• whether: expressing a doubt or choice between alternatives
  • Example: I don’t know whether to go to the party or stay home.

waist / waste

• waist: the part of the human body below the ribs and above the hips
  • Example: She wrapped a belt around her waist to cinch her dress.
• waste: to use or expend carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose
  • Example: He hated to waste food, so he always finished everything on his plate.

wait / weight

• wait: to stay where one is or delay action until a particular time or until something else happens
  • Example: She had to wait for the bus to arrive.
• weight: a measure of the heaviness of an object
  • Example: The weight of the package was too much for her to lift.

yew / ewe / you

• yew: a type of evergreen tree or shrub with dark green leaves and red berries, often used in hedges and for timber
  • Example: They planted a row of yew trees along the edge of the garden.
• ewe: a female sheep
  • Example: The ewe gave birth to two healthy lambs.
• you: used to refer to the person or people being addressed
  • Example: Can you pass me the salt, please?

yews / use

• yews: plural of “yew,” a type of evergreen tree or shrub
  • Example: The garden was filled with ancient yews.
• use: the action of utilizing something or the state of being utilized
  • Example: She made good use of her time by studying.

yoke / yolk

• yoke: a wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to the plow or cart that they are to pull
  • Example: The oxen were harnessed together by a wooden yoke.
• yolk: the yellow part of an egg, situated in the center, surrounded by the egg white
  • Example: She separated the egg white from the yolk before baking the cake.

you’ll / Yule

• you’ll: contraction of “you will”
  • Example: You’ll have a great time at the party tonight.
• Yule: an archaic term for Christmas or the Christmas season
  • Example: They celebrated Yule with a big family dinner.

your / you’re

• your: belonging to or associated with the person or people that the speaker is addressing
  • Example: Is this your book?
• you’re: contraction of “you are”
  • Example: You’re going to love the movie we’re seeing tonight.