Language of the Day: Homophones part 1

English, like many other languages, is full of tricky homophones. Homophones are words that sound the same, but their spelling and meaning can be very different.

Today we’ll look at five tricky homophones in English that you need to know!

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1. weather & whether

We’re talking about the weather when we’re describing the temperature or the air outside. Maybe it is raining or sunny out, hot or cold.

Whether is a conjunction used to introduce the first of two or more alternatives. We often see this used after the words ”depends.” For example, “I’m not sure if I can go to the party. It depends on when I get off work.”

2. here & hear

Here is generally an adverb or noun used to indicate a place, e.g., I could sworn I left my cellphone right here.

Hear is what your ears are for: to perceive and process sounds and information. For example: “I heard that you had to get a new cellphone.”

3. your & you’re

Your is a singular or plural possessive pronoun: your dog, I am your best friend, as two examples.

You’re is a contraction of you are: you’re going to the movies tonight, I think you’re the best, and so on.

4. principal & principle

A principal is in charge of a school. Principal is also an adjective meaning “chief, main,” as in the principal ingredient in a recipe.

A principle variously refers to “an accepted rule of conduct, fundamental law, or essential tenet,” e.g., I refuse to pay on principle.

5. aloud & allowed

Something said aloud is done vocally (as opposed to reading or singing in your head): Today in class, we’re going to read our essays aloud.

Allowed indicates something is “permitted.” If you’re going to play music aloud, first make sure it’s allowed.