English Class 7 - Homonyms And-Homophones Notes

Homonyms and Homophones

Welcome to the chapter on Homonyms and Homophones for Class 7. In this chapter, you will learn what homonyms and homophones are, how to identify them, and how to use them correctly in sentences. By the end of this chapter, you will be able to spot and use homonyms and homophones with confidence!

Introduction

English has many words that sound alike or look alike but have different meanings. These words can be confusing, but learning about homonyms and homophones will help you use them correctly.

What are Homonyms?

Homonyms are words that have the same spelling or pronunciation but different meanings.

• Bat: (a flying animal) / (an object used in cricket)
• Bank: (the side of a river) / (a place to keep money)
• Seal: (an animal) / (to close something tightly)

What are Homophones?

Homophones are words that sound the same but have different spellings and meanings.

• Pair (two of something) / Pear (a fruit)
• Flour (used in baking) / Flower (a blooming plant)
• Write (to form letters) / Right (correct or direction)
• Sea (large body of water) / See (to look)

How to Use Homonyms and Homophones

• Read the sentence carefully to understand the meaning.
• Check the spelling and context for homophones.
• Use a dictionary if you are unsure about the meaning.

Fun Activity: Homonym and Homophone Hunt!

Find five homonyms and five homophones in your English textbook. Write sentences using each word to show their different meanings.

Summary

• Homonyms: Same spelling or sound, different meanings.
• Homophones: Same sound, different spelling and meaning.
• Context helps you choose the correct word.

Practice Questions

1. Write two meanings for the word "bat".
2. Choose the correct word: I want to (write/right) a letter.
3. What is the homophone for "sea"?
4. Use "bank" in two different sentences.
5. What is the difference between "flour" and "flower"?

Challenge Yourself

• Make a list of ten homophones and write sentences for each.
• Find three homonyms and explain their meanings.

Did You Know?

• The word "lead" can mean to guide or a type of metal!
• Homophones are often used in jokes and puns.

Glossary

• Homonym: A word with the same spelling or sound but different meanings.
• Homophone: A word that sounds the same as another but has a different spelling and meaning.
• Context: The words and sentences around a word that help you understand its meaning.

Answers to Practice Questions

1. Bat: (a flying animal), (an object used in cricket)
2. Write
3. See
4. I sat by the river bank. / I keep my money in the bank.
5. Flour is used for baking; flower is a blooming plant.

---

Practice using homonyms and homophones to make your English clear and interesting!