Homograph meaning

A homograph is a word that has the same spelling as another word but a different pronunciation and meaning.


Homograph definitions

Word backwards hpargomoh
Part of speech The word "homograph" is a noun.
Syllabic division ho-mo-graph
Plural The plural of the word homograph is homographs.
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) o,a
Consonants (5) h,m,g,r,p

Homographs are words that are spelled the same way but have different meanings, and sometimes different pronunciations as well. These words can be quite confusing for language learners and even native speakers at times. Learning to distinguish between different meanings of homographs can enhance language comprehension and communication skills.

Examples of Homographs:

One classic example of a homograph is the word "bow." It can refer to a type of knot or to the act of bending at the waist. Another example is the word "tear," which can mean a drop of water from the eye or to rip something apart. These are just a few instances of the many homographs present in the English language.

Context is Key:

Understanding the context in which a homograph is used is crucial to discerning its intended meaning. Sometimes, even the pronunciation can differ based on the context. For example, the word "lives" can be pronounced differently in the following sentences: "She lives in New York" versus "Cats have nine lives."

Common Mistakes:

One common mistake with homographs is assuming that they always have the same pronunciation. For instance, the word "wind" can be pronounced differently when referring to the weather ("the wind is blowing") versus coiling something up ("Wind the thread around the spool"). Such nuances can trip up even advanced language learners.

Overall, homographs add depth and complexity to the English language. As such, mastering their various meanings and pronunciations can be a rewarding challenge for those looking to improve their language skills.


Homograph Examples

  1. The bass (fish) was jumping out of the water.
  2. She took a bow after her violin performance.
  3. He will polish his new shoes before the party.
  4. I read a book about bats last night.
  5. The band played loudly at the concert.
  6. He will desert the army next week.
  7. The lead singer stole the show with her performance.
  8. She refused to desert her post despite the danger.
  9. The wound on his arm needed a bandage.
  10. They will resume the meeting after lunch.


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  • Updated 12/05/2024 - 23:19:31