Which term describes words that are spelled the same but have different meanings?

Which term describes words that are spelled the same but have different meanings?

• A. Homonym
• B. Homograph
• C. Homophone
• D. Dyspraxia

Answer: (B)

Words that are spelled the same but have different meanings are called homographs. The same spelling can carry distinct meanings depending on how the word is used in a sentence, and sometimes the pronunciation changes between meanings (as in lead for guiding vs lead the metal). For example, lead and lead share the same spelling but point to very different ideas, just like bat as an animal versus bat as sports equipment. In contrast, a homophone involves words that sound the same but may be spelled differently (night and knight). Dyspraxia is unrelated to word meanings; it’s a motor coordination condition. Use context to infer which meaning is intended when you encounter a homograph.

Words that are spelled the same but have different meanings are called homographs. The same spelling can carry distinct meanings depending on how the word is used in a sentence, and sometimes the pronunciation changes between meanings (as in lead for guiding vs lead the metal). For example, lead and lead share the same spelling but point to very different ideas, just like bat as an animal versus bat as sports equipment. In contrast, a homophone involves words that sound the same but may be spelled differently (night and knight). Dyspraxia is unrelated to word meanings; it’s a motor coordination condition. Use context to infer which meaning is intended when you encounter a homograph.