Differences Between Pole and Poll: Easy Guide for Kids

Understanding the Difference Between “Pole” and “Poll”

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.

History

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.

How to Use Them

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.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: Pole = Pole vault or a pole to hold something up, and Poll = Asking questions or counting votes.

Example Sentences

Pole

• The flag is flying high on the tall pole.
• The tent has a strong pole in the middle.
• The wooden pole was painted red and white.
• He used a fishing pole to catch fish in the river.
• The telephone pole had many wires attached to it.

Poll

• We took a quick poll to decide where to eat.
• The class did a poll to see who wanted a field trip.
• The election poll closes at 6 PM tonight.
• There will be a poll asking students about their favorite subject.
• The newspaper published a poll about people’s opinions on the new park.

Summary

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.”