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How to Pronounce knock vs nock

Key Pronunciation Contrast

"knock" and "nock" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄nɒk⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.

knock

⁄nɒk⁄

Syllables

KNOCK

Definition:

An abrupt rapping sound, as from an impact of a hard object against wood.

“It came to me, like a knock on the door / Erasing all that had gone before / Broken wings can be mended / But this love of ours, we've got to defend it”

nock

⁄nɒk⁄

Syllables

NOCK

Definition:

Either of the two grooves in a bow that hold the bowstring.

“Meanwhile there had been bustle and preparation in all parts of the great vessel. The archers stood in groups about the decks, new-stringing their bows, and testing that they were firm at the nocks.”

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Frequently Asked Questions: knock vs nock

What is the difference in pronunciation between "knock" and "nock"?

"knock" and "nock" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄nɒk⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "knock" vs "nock"?

"knock" has 1 syllable(s) (knock) with stress on "KNOCK". "nock" has 1 syllable(s) (nock) with stress on "NOCK".

Why do English learners often confuse "knock" and "nock"?

These words share similar consonant frameworks and vowel lengths, making them difficult for non-native speakers to distinguish without back-to-back ear training.

What are example sentences for "knock" and "nock"?

Example for "knock": "It came to me, like a knock on the door / Erasing all that had gone before / Broken wings can be mended / But this love of ours, we've got to defend it" Example for "nock": "Meanwhile there had been bustle and preparation in all parts of the great vessel. The archers stood in groups about the decks, new-stringing their bows, and testing that they were firm at the nocks."