The words “pole” and “poll” sound the same (we call these kinds of words “homophones”), but they mean different things and are used in different ways. Let’s explore the history, usage, and a trick to remember the difference. Then, we will see examples and a summary.
Pole: The word “pole” comes from old words in European languages. It often meant a long stick or a stake.
Poll: “Poll” comes from old English and it originally referred to the top of the head or counting heads in an election.
Pole: A “pole” usually refers to a long, thin stick or bar. It can be used to hold something up or to mark a spot.
Poll: A “poll” is a way to ask people’s opinion or a way to count votes in an election.
Remember: Pole = Pole vault or a pole to hold something up, and Poll = Asking questions or counting votes.
To sum up, “pole” is used for long, thin sticks used to hold things up or mark places. Meanwhile, “poll” is used when talking about asking people’s opinions or counting votes. Remember the trick: think of “pole vault” for “pole” and “people opinion” for “poll.”
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