What are Heteronyms?
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Heteronyms are words that are spelled identically, but change meanings when pronounced differently. Consider:
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Given the slippery nature of heteronyms, it is best to combine them with synonyms that are highly specific. buffet +bump will return more information skiing than it will about cold cuts.
Listen, readers, toward me bow.
Be friendly; do not draw the bow.
Please don't try to start a row.
Sit peacefully, all in a row.
Don't act like a big, fat sow.
Do not the seeds of discord sow.
From the Word-A-Day Archives! http://wordsmith.org/awad/archives/1201
What are Homonyms?Homonyms are words that have the same sound but have a completely different spelling and meaning. Misspelling these common words can create confusion. Consider:
- acts things done / ax chopping tool
- racket illegal moneymaking scheme / racquet woven bat for tennis
- right correct / rite ritual / wright a maker / write to inscribe
Proper spelling and application of homonyms will not only improve your writing, it will focus your queries and improve your results!
What are Contronyms?
Contronyms (sometimes called Janus words) confound search engines because they are words with the same spelling and contradictory meanings. Consider:
- buckle: to hold together (e.g. buckle your belt) vs. to fall apart (e.g., buckle under pressure);
- cool: positive sense (cool web-sites) vs. negative sense (cool reception);
- transparent: easily seen ("His motives were transparent.") vs. invisible.
If you have contronyms in your query, be sure to add more specific synonyms to reduce confusion and improve your search results.