The Difference Between Taught and Taut

The Difference Between “Taught” and “Taut”

The words “taught” and “taut” sound the same, but they are different words with different meanings. Let’s learn the difference!

History

“Taught” comes from the word “teach.” It is the past form of “teach.” “Taut” comes from old words that mean “tight” or “pulled.” Both words have been used for many years.

How to Use Them

Taught: “Taught” is used when we talk about giving lessons or showing how to do something in the past.

• My teacher taught me how to read.
• He taught his dog to sit.
• She taught us to sing songs.
• They taught me math last year.
• Mom taught me to cook a cake.

Taut: “Taut” is used when we talk about something that is tight, stretched, or firm.

• The rope is taut.
• Keep the string taut when you fly the kite.
• The sail was pulled taut by the wind.
• Make sure the line is taut before you tie it.
• His muscles were taut with stress.

Trick to Remember the Difference

You can remember the difference by thinking about their meanings. “Taught” comes from “teach,” so it is about learning. “Taut” sounds like “tight,” so it is about being tight or stretched.

Summary

Remember: “Taught” means someone gave lessons or showed how to do something in the past. “Taut” means something is tight, stretched, or firm. Knowing these meanings will help you use the words correctly.