Understanding Carat, Caret, Karat, and Carrot

Sometimes, words in English sound the same but mean different things. This is true for “carat,” “caret,” “karat,” and “carrot.” Let’s look at how these words are different and how to use them.

Carat

“Carat” is a word used to tell how heavy gemstones, like diamonds, are. One carat equals 200 milligrams.

History

The word “carat” comes from the Greek word “kerátion,” which means carob seed. People used carob seeds to weigh gemstones in old times.

Examples

• The diamond was 2 carats.
• She bought a 1-carat ring.
• The carat weight affects the price of the gemstone.
• They compared two stones: one was 3 carats, the other was 4 carats.
• A tiny 0.5-carat diamond was in the necklace.

Caret

A “caret” is a small mark (^) used by writers to show where to add something to the text.

History

“Caret” comes from the Latin word “caret” which means “it lacks.” Writers and editors use this symbol to show missing parts in writing.

Examples

• The teacher added a caret to the sentence.
• Use a caret to insert the missing word.
• There is a caret above the letter ‘e’.
• The editor wrote a caret on the manuscript.
• I learned how to use a caret in school.

Karat

“Karat” is used with gold. It shows how pure the gold is. 24-karat gold is pure gold.

History

The word “karat” also comes from “kerátion,” the Greek word for carob seed, but it is used for gold.

Examples

• The ring is made of 18-karat gold.
• Pure gold is 24-karat.
• She prefers 14-karat jewelry.
• The chain is 10-karat gold.
• His watch is 20-karat gold.

Carrot

“Carrot” is a type of vegetable. Carrots are usually orange and are healthy to eat.

History

The word “carrot” comes from the French word “carotte,” which is the name for this vegetable.

Examples

• I eat a carrot every day.
• She put carrots in the soup.
• Carrots are good for your eyes.
• He grows carrots in his garden.
• The rabbit loves carrots.

Summary

It can be tricky to remember these words, but there are simple tricks:

• Think of “carat” with diamonds.
• Use “caret” in writing.
• Remember “karat” with gold.
• And eat your “carrot” veggies!

Now you know the difference between carat, caret, karat, and carrot. They sound the same but have very different meanings.