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Heteronym (Homograph)

How to Pronounce bow vs bow

Key Pronunciation Contrast

‘Bow’ (curved weapon, ribbon, or violin stick) is ⁄boʊ⁄; ‘bow’ (bending the torso in respect) is ⁄baʊ⁄.

Contrast: ⁄boʊ⁄ (ribbon/archery) vs ⁄baʊ⁄ (salute/ship front)

bow

⁄baʊ⁄

Syllables

BOW

Definition:

A weapon made of a curved piece of wood or other flexible material whose ends are connected by a string, used for shooting arrows.

“Holonym: bow and arrow”

bow

⁄baʊ⁄

Syllables

BOW

Definition:

A weapon made of a curved piece of wood or other flexible material whose ends are connected by a string, used for shooting arrows.

“Holonym: bow and arrow”

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Frequently Asked Questions: bow vs bow

What is the difference in pronunciation between "bow" and "bow"?

‘Bow’ (curved weapon, ribbon, or violin stick) is ⁄boʊ⁄; ‘bow’ (bending the torso in respect) is ⁄baʊ⁄.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "bow" vs "bow"?

"bow" has 1 syllable(s) (bow) with stress on "BOW". "bow" has 1 syllable(s) (bow) with stress on "BOW".

Why do English learners often confuse "bow" and "bow"?

Learners frequently confuse them due to the close sound contrast: ⁄boʊ⁄ (ribbon/archery) vs ⁄baʊ⁄ (salute/ship front). In rapid spoken English, context and vowel duration are the primary differentiators.

What are example sentences for "bow" and "bow"?

Example for "bow": "Holonym: bow and arrow" Example for "bow": "Holonym: bow and arrow"