They All Sound the Same

English is full of words that sound exactly the same but have completely different meanings. These types of words are called homonyms. They were invented, like much of English, for the sole purpose of confusing most of the world's population.

Many homonyms come in tricky threesomes:

Homonyms also come in pairs, which can be just as annoying and confusing, such as these number homonyms (the words sound EXACTLY the same when you say them):

Non-native English speakers find homonyms especially irritating and frustrating. And justifiably so. We all know that misery loves company, so I will let you in on a little secret. Native English speakers also mix these words up and curse them quietly under their breath as they try to remember the correct spelling.

So...how on earth are you supposed to know which one to use? Or which one someone means in a conversation? Good question. The answer is simple: context.

You can usually figure it out from the rest of the words in the sentence, and from the general situation being discussed. For example:

• I read a red book yesterday.

• The wind blew the blue umbrella away.

• Mary, will you marry me?

• I sent her a rose with a marvelous scent.

• Oh my, I owe you my life!

• What kind of wood would look best in the kitchen?

Have some fun with homonyms. They can be used to create very clever and witty ads for your business! Any bold and spicy shoemakers out there looking for a new sign?

(The bigger and better question is where on earth did I find chili peppers shaped like high heels???)