Bellow-ing and Below-ing: The Tale of Two Words

Bellow vs. Below

Sometimes words sound the same but have different meanings. Two of these words are “bellow” and “below.” Let’s learn about these words, where they come from, and how to use them.

History of the Words

Bellow: The word “bellow” comes from an old English word “bellan,” which means to make a loud sound, like a roar.

Below: The word “below” comes from an old English word “belo” or “bi-lowan,” which means to be under something.

How to Use Them

Bellow: “Bellow” is used when someone or something makes a loud, deep sound. It is often used in stories or talking about animals like lions.

• The teacher bellowed at the noisy class.
• The lion bellowed in the jungle.
• He bellowed in anger when he hurt his foot.
• She bellowed for help when she was lost.
• The captain bellowed orders to his crew.

Below: “Below” is used to talk about something being under something else. It can be used for positions and levels.

• The cat hid below the table.
• The temperature is below zero today.
• Please write your name below the line.
• The basement is below the ground floor.
• The stars are below the moon tonight.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: “Bellow” is loud, like the “o” in “roar.” “Below” is about position, with an “o” like in “low” (to be under).

Summary

To sum up, “bellow” means to make a loud noise, often angrily or from animals. “Below” means to be under something else. Their different meanings make them useful in different situations.