Read
What’s the difference between them?
Read
Meaning:
Past form of 'to read.'
Examples:
1. I read the book yesterday.
2. He read the instructions before assembling the furniture.
3. She read the newspaper before the bell rang.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Read
1. Perused
2. Examined
3. Studied
4. Skimmed
1. Wrote
2. Spoke
3. Listened
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Read".
1. 'Read' /riːd/ is the present tense.
2. 'Read' /red/ is the past tense.
3. Associate the pronunciation of past tense with red color.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should 'read' be used?
'Read' is a verb that should be used when referring to looking at written or printed material and understanding its meaning. It can also be used when referring to interpreting figures, symbols, or other non-verbal forms of communication.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'read'?
The past tense 'read' (pronounced 'red') should be used in contexts where you are describing an action that occurred in the past.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, they have different pronunciation. 'Read' (present tense) is pronounced as /rid/, while 'read' (past tense) is pronounced as /red/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using these words is confusing 'read' with 'reed'. Another is using 'read' when the context calls for 'reed', which is a thin piece of material used for various purposes. Additionally, people may confuse 'read' with 'red', which is a color.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I cant believe youve never ___ this classic novel!
2. Yesterday, she ___ the entire book in one sitting.
3. Will you ___ the instructions to me aloud?
4. By the time the sun set, he had ___ three chapters.
5. How many pages have you ___ so far?
6. Last week, I ___ an interesting article about climate change.
1. read (past tense)
Explanation: The sentences structure indicates a present perfect tense (youve = you have), suggesting the word read is pronounced like red.
2. read (past tense)
Explanation: The use of yesterday signifies a past action, which means the word read is pronounced like red.
3. read (present tense)
Explanation: The sentence asks for a future action (will you do this?). Therefore, read is pronounced like reed.
4. read (past tense)
Explanation: The phrase By the time the sun set indicates a past action, suggesting read is pronounced like red.
5. read (past tense)
Explanation: The question asks about an ongoing action up to the present moment. Therefore, read is pronounced like red.
6. read (past tense)
Explanation: Last week is a clear indication of a past action, so read is pronounced like red.
Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!
Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.