136. Where, Ware, and Wear

Where, ware, and wear are three homophones that sound alike but are spelled differently and have different meanings.

Where is an adverb showing location. When someone asks where? the answer is usually here or there. Notice that where, here, and there all have here inside. Remind yourself that where and here are both locations.
Where did you put the book? I put it over here.
I wonder where that dog belongs. He came from over there.

Ware is a noun for merchandise or items being offered for sale.
The peddler displayed his wares.
I bought some elegant chinaware at the flea market.

Wear is a verb showing action. Notice the word ear inside wear. Tell yourself that you wear your ear on your head.
I always wear old clothes when I’m working in the garden.
Be sure to wear a coat on these very cold days.

Where, ware, and wear are three confusing words because they sound the same but are used in different ways. Where is an adverb with here inside. Ware, a noun, means merchandise for sale. Wear shows action. You wear your ear.

  • Now you try it. Write a sentence with the location adverb where. Then write a sentence with the verb wear. Do you understand the difference? Good for you!