A Quick Quiz

In honor of returning from hiatus (see below) I decided to run a little quiz, to see how y’all like it.

I’m going to give you a word, followed by two definitions. One definition is correct, the other is the definition of its soundalike or homophone. Seems ridiculously easy, right? But I see these pairs of words mixed up quite often. So, I thought it would be a fun exercise to play a little game about them.

This isn’t interactive, just choose your answers. Then look below the questions to see if you’re correct. No prizes, just your satisfied sigh when you get them all right!

All definitions are adapted from the Color Oxford Dictionary Thesaurus & Wordpower Guide, edited by Sara Hawker, published in 2003.

Let’s jump in.

1.???? What does reign mean?

A.?? Of or relating to the rule of a sovereign

B.??? A long strap fastened to a horse’s bridle, used to steer or control; restrain

2.???? What is the meaning of heal?

C.??? Become healthy again

D.?? The back part of the human foot

3.???? Do you know the meaning of peak?

E.??? To glance (at)

F.??? A pointed top; a point of highest value

4.???? What does advice mean?

G.?? A suggestion as to someone’s best course of action

H.?? Recommend

5.???? What is a role?

I.????? A person or thing’s duty, task, or job; an actor’s part

J.????? To move on wheels, or to move by revolving over and over

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Time to check your work. How do you think you did? Answers are below the stars.

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1.???? Did you answer “A”? Absolutely you did! Here’s a sentence using both words:

As Henry VIII’s reign went on, the monarch’s excesses became increasingly difficult to rein in. (Note that when rein is used meaning “restrain,” it’s usually followed by “in.”)

2.???? If you said “C,” congrats! Here’s the usage:

Helena will be sidelined for approximately six weeks, waiting for her heel to heal.

3.???? You said “F”! Fantastic!

Frannie was so piqued that she didn’t get a peek at Pike’s Peak on her trip to the Rocky Mountains. It would have been the peak experience of her vacation. (Bonus:? piqued! Pronounced like peeked, it means “a feeling of hurt pride,” according to the dictionary noted above. It can also mean to stimulate one’s curiosity.)

4.???? If you answered “G,” that’s a good answer.

“Never take my advice on anything,” the dodo advised.

5.???? Did you say “I”? Indeed you did, that’s the one.

Bob’s role was to roll the bicycle around the stage.

How did you like this little exercise? Would you like more of these? I’m thinking of making it a regular feature, maybe one question every other week or so. Let me know what you think in the comments.

Vocabulary Word

Hiatus:? A pause or gap in a series

Thanks for reading. See you next Tuesday.