Tenants vs. Tenets: Simple Guide to Understand the Difference

Understanding the Difference Between “Tenants” and “Tenets”

Today, we will learn about two words, “tenants” and “tenets.” They sound a lot alike, but they mean different things. Let’s explore what each word means, where they come from, and how to use them!

The History of “Tenants” and “Tenets”

“Tenants” comes from the Latin word tenere, which means “to hold.” Long ago, people who held land were called “tenants.”

“Tenets” comes from the Latin word tenet, meaning “he holds.” This word is used for things people believe or accept as true.

How to Use “Tenants” and “Tenets”

Tenants

“Tenants” are people who rent a space to live or work. Here are five sentences to help you understand:

• The tenants pay rent every month.
• My neighbor is one of the apartment tenants.
• The tenants planted flowers in the garden.
• The landlord visited the tenants to check the house.
• All the tenants in the building like to have parties.

Tenets

“Tenets” are beliefs or ideas that people follow. Here are five sentences to help you understand:

• One tenet of friendship is trust.
• The tenets of the group include honesty and kindness.
• The teacher explained the tenets of math to the class.
• An important tenet of the team is teamwork.
• Respect is a core tenet of our community.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember the difference, think of the letter “a” in “tenants” as “apartment” because tenants live in apartments or houses. For “tenets,” think of the “e” in “beliefs.”

Summary

“Tenants” are people who rent places to live. They pay rent and live in homes or apartments.

“Tenets” are ideas or beliefs that guide people. They are things people hold to be true or important.

Now you know the difference between “tenants” and “tenets.” Keep practicing, and you’ll remember them easily!