Homonyms, Why English Suffers

Those of us who grew up learning the English language had a great advantage over everyone else who attempts to learn English as a foreign language. We had context, the meaning within the syntax of sentences which helped us to understand what many English words mean, even though they sound the same as other words, but have different meanings and are usually spelled differently. They are the dreaded.…HOMONYMS.

From the placement of words within a sentence, we came to naturally understand such sentences as, "Angus is too thrifty to spend two dollars." It is no wonder that homonyms present a major obstacle to the millions of people who confront the English language for the first time, having learned and used another language.

Here is a book which concisely isolates the most common homonyms, explaining their different meanings and spellings, even though they are pronounced the same. While it should prove a useful tool for those acquiring English as a new language, I am also hoping it will be entertaining as well… Life is too short…

This book intends to be a practical and thoughtful guide, but does not attempt encyclopedic scope or lofty academic scholarship.

To one who masters English homonyms, the rest of the vocabulary is more easily acquired.

NOTE: The words listed herein are described briefly. There may be more meanings (usages) than those listed. Also, there may be more words that could have been included (but that would have stopped you from using your thinking cap). For example; I have a brother-in-law whose name is "Lint" and I wouldn’t want his name to be linked with pocket fluff. But overall I think you will get the point—just have fun with what follows.