Homographs are words that are spelled the same but have different meanings and sometimes different pronunciations. They can be a source of confusion for English learners, as the same word can have multiple interpretations based on the context in which it is used. In this article, we will explore 20 common homographs and discuss their meanings and pronunciations.

One of the most well-known homographs is "bow." This word can refer to a weapon used for shooting arrows or a gesture of respect or greeting. Depending on the context, "bow" can be pronounced differently - with a long vowel sound when referring to a weapon and a short vowel sound when referring to a gesture.

Another example is "tear," which can mean a drop of salty liquid from the eye when crying or to rip something apart. The pronunciation of "tear" can vary - with a long vowel sound for crying and a short vowel sound for ripping.

"Lead" is a homograph that can be pronounced differently based on its meaning. It can refer to the metal lead or to being in charge of a group. The pronunciation changes from /lɛd/ for the metal to /liːd/ for being in charge.

"Wind" is another homograph with different meanings and pronunciations. It can refer to moving air or to twisting or turning something. The pronunciation shifts from /wɪnd/ for moving air to /waɪnd/ for twisting.

Overall, homographs can be tricky to navigate in English, but understanding their various meanings and pronunciations can help clarify any confusion. Practice using these words in different contexts to become more familiar with their nuances and enhance your language skills.