English Class 8 - Homonyms And-Homophones Notes

Homonyms and Homophones

Welcome to the chapter on Homonyms and Homophones for Class 8. 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 are called homonyms and homophones. Understanding them helps you avoid confusion and improves your vocabulary.

What are Homonyms?

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

• Bat (an animal) / Bat (used in cricket)
• Bank (side of a river) / Bank (where you keep money)
• Seal (an animal) / Seal (to close something)

What are Homophones?

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

• Pair (two of something) / Pear (a fruit)
• 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 pronunciation, different meanings.
• Homophones: Same sound, different spelling and meaning.
• Context helps you understand which word is being used.

Practice Questions

1. Give two examples of homonyms and use them in sentences.
2. Write three pairs of homophones and their meanings.
3. Choose the correct word: I want to (sea/see) the ocean.
4. Choose the correct word: She will (write/right) a letter.
5. Explain the difference between "bat" (animal) and "bat" (sports).

Challenge Yourself

• Make a list of five homonyms and five homophones not mentioned above.
• Write a short story using at least three homophones.

Did You Know?

• The word "lead" can mean to guide or a type of metal!
• Homophones can be tricky in spelling tests and dictations.

Glossary

• Homonym: A word with the same spelling or sound as another but a different meaning.
• 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: The bat flew at night. / He hit the ball with a bat.
   Seal: The seal clapped its flippers. / Please seal the envelope.
2. Pair/Pear: Two of something / A fruit.
   Write/Right: To form letters / Correct or direction.
   Sea/See: Large body of water / To look.
3. See
4. Write
5. "Bat" (animal) is a flying mammal. "Bat" (sports) is used to hit a ball in games like cricket.

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