Understanding the Difference Between Loath and Loathe

Loath vs. Loathe

The words “loath” and “loathe” look and sound similar, but they have different meanings and uses. Let’s learn about their history, how to use them, and a trick to remember the difference.

History

Both “loath” and “loathe” come from old English words.

– Loath: Comes from “láð,” which means hostile.
– Loathe: Comes from “látian,” which means to hate.

How to Use Them

Loath

“Loath” is an adjective. It means not wanting to do something.

Loathe

“Loathe” is a verb. It means to dislike something very much or to hate.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: “Loath” has fewer letters like “adj” in “adjective.” “Loathe” has more letters like “verb,” which is a longer word.

Example Sentences

Loath

1. I am loath to leave my warm bed in the morning.
2. The cat is loath to go outside in the rain.
3. She is loath to share her secrets with everyone.
4. He was loath to admit that he was wrong.
5. They are loath to try new foods.

Loathe

1. I loathe eating broccoli.
2. She loathes waking up early.
3. He loathes doing homework on weekends.
4. The dog loathes taking a bath.
5. They loathe cleaning up after a big party.

Summary

In short, “loath” is an adjective meaning unwilling or not wanting to do something. “Loathe” is a verb, which means to hate something or to dislike it very much. Remember the letter count trick to help you use them correctly!