Understanding Accent vs Ascent vs Assent

Learning English words can sometimes be tricky. Three words that are often confusing are accent, ascent, and assent. They sound almost the same but have different meanings. Let’s look at how these words are different from each other.

History of the Words

Accent

The word “accent” comes from an old Latin word “accentus” which means “song.” In English, it talks about how people talk or the marks over letters to show how to say them.

Ascent

“Ascent” comes from the Latin word “ascendere,” which means “to climb.” In English, it means going up or climbing.

Assent

The word “assent” comes from Latin “assentire,” which means “to agree.” In English, it means to say yes or agree.

How to Use the Words

Accent

The word “accent” can mean:

• How people from different places say words.
• A mark over a letter to show how to say it.

Ascent

The word “ascent” means moving up or climbing.

Assent

The word “assent” means to agree or say yes.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of a sentence to help remember:

“The person with a different accent had to ascend the hill to get the king’s assent.”

Examples of Usage

Accent

• She has a British accent.
• His Spanish accent makes him sound interesting.
• The accent mark in Café shows how to say the word.
• They learned to speak with an American accent.
• Accents can show where a person comes from.

Ascent

• The ascent to the mountain top took two hours.
• His ascent to leadership was quick.
• The hot air balloon began its slow ascent.
• The plane’s ascent was smooth and quick.
• The rocket’s ascent was watched by thousands.

Assent

• He nodded in assent to the plan.
• The teacher gave her assent to the idea.
• We need his assent before we start.
• Her quick assent surprised everyone.
• They waited for the president’s assent.

Summary

Accent is about how people talk or marks on letters. Ascent is about going up or climbing. Assent is about agreeing or saying yes.

With these tips, you should find it easier to use accent, ascent, and assent correctly!”