Plough vs. Plow: Understanding the Difference

Plough vs. Plow: Understanding the Difference

Plough vs. Plow

Plough and plow are two spellings for the same farming tool. Plough is more common in British English, while plow is used in American English.

History:

The word “plough” has its origins in Old English, while “plow” comes from Middle English. Both words have been in use for centuries to refer to the same instrument used for tilling soil.

How to Use Them:

Plough/plow is used in farming to turn over soil to prepare it for planting. It is usually pulled by a tractor or animals.

Trick to Remember the Difference:

Think of it this way: Plough has an extra ‘u’ just like in British English while plow is shorter, just like in American English.

Examples: Plough

1. The farmer used a plough to till the field.

2. She guided the horses as they pulled the plough through the soil.

3. The traditional wooden plough is still used in some remote areas.

4. The rusty plough needed to be repaired before the next planting season.

5. The farmer’s hands were sore from gripping the plough all day.

Examples: Plow

1. The farmer used a plow to break up the hard ground.

2. The modern plow is attached to a tractor for efficiency.

3. The plow created neat furrows for planting seeds.

4. His ancestors plowed these fields centuries ago.

5. The noisy plow woke us up early in the morning.

Summary:

Both plough and plow refer to the same farming tool used for tilling soil. Remember, plough is more common in British English, and plow is used in American English. Use the spelling that fits your region or preference.