Homophones

What are Homophones?

Homophones are words that sound the same but have different spellings and meanings. They are one of the most common sources of spelling errors in English.

The Most Common Homophones

there / their / they're

• The bag is over there. (place)
• Their dog is friendly. (possession)
• They're going to the park. (they are)

your / you're

• Is this your book? (possession)
• You're doing great! (you are)

its / it's

• The dog wagged its tail. (possession)
• It's raining today. (it is / it has)

to / too / two

• She went to school. (preposition/direction)
• I like it too. (also / as well)
• I have two brothers. (number)

write / right / wright

• Please write your name. (verb: to write)
• Turn right at the junction. (direction / correct)

hear / here

• I can hear the music. (sense of sound)
• Come here, please. (place)

weather / whether

• The weather is warm. (climate)
• I don't know whether to go. (if / which)

Tip: Context is Key

Always check the context when choosing between homophones. Ask yourself: does this word mean what I intend?