Tail vs. Tale: Don’t Mix Up These Tails!

Tail vs. Tale: What’s the Difference?

Two words sound the same but mean different things. These words are “tail” and “tale.” Let’s look at each word to understand their meanings and how to use them.

History of the Words

Tail: The word “tail” comes from old English “tægl.” It means the back part of an animal’s body.

Tale: The word “tale” comes from old English “talu.” It means a story or a narrative.

How to Use Them

Tail: Use “tail” when talking about the back part of an animal. For example:

• The dog wags its tail.
• The cat has a long tail.
• The fish moved its tail quickly.
• The horse’s tail is very soft.
• The monkey uses its tail to hang from trees.

Tale: Use “tale” when talking about a story. For example:

• He told me a funny tale.
• She wrote a tale about dragons.
• The old man shared an interesting tale.
• The kids loved the fairy tale.
• This is a tale of courage and friendship.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is an easy trick: Think of “tail” as part of an animal, and “tale” as a text (story).

Summary

Remember, “tail” talks about the back part of animals, like dogs and cats. “Tale” is a word for stories or narratives you tell or read.

• Tail: Part of an animal’s body.
• Tale: A story.

Now you know how to use “tail” and “tale” correctly!