Confusing Words: Aisle (noun) and Isle (noun)
Meaning:
Aisle (a passage between rows of seats in a building such as a church or theatre, an aircraft, or train.)
Isle (an island or peninsula, especially a small one.)
Aisle vs Isle Clarification: The two words have different meaning and spelling. They are only pronounced in the same manner but can not be used interchangeably.
Aisle vs Isle – What is the Difference, Definition & Meanings?
Is it Aisle or Isle? Do not confuse yourselves. Both of these words are totally different words with different meanings as well as spellings. One thing that is common is their pronunciation.
Pronunciation of Aisle and Isle = /ʌɪl/ or /ahyl/ or I’ll
Both of these words are used as noun in sentences. Let us discuss their definitions and meanings separately.
Aisle
This word is a noun. An aisle is a narrow or a wide passage usually at the supermarkets, halls, church or it can be between rows of seats in classrooms or any vehicle. In simple words, it is a walkway through which you can go from one place to another.
This particular word has a figurative meaning as well. It is figuratively used in politics. In politics, parties have many divisions in them. This division is often denoted by this term i.e. ‘Aisle’. This word works to show a dividing line between parties.
1. Supermarkets should keep the aisles wide so that people can walk through easily.
2. I can’t walk through the aisle of the plane.
3. You can understand why the Obama spin machine would rather suggest there is disarray on the Republican side of the aisle. Reference –(Grammarist.com)
Isle
Like aisle, isle is a noun too but it differs in terms of meanings. Isle represents ‘a land’. In simple words, it is an island. Actually, this term is a short form for island and it is used to refer small islands.
1. One of the most beautiful places to visit is The Tropical Isle.
2. The scientists went to the deserted isle in search of the most unique plants.
3. The shipwrecked family swam to a nearby isle to await their rescue. Reference –(softschools.com)
Check Out: Abstract and Concrete Nouns.
Got the Difference?
Hence, it is clear from the above discussion that aisle and isle are ‘homonyms’. They have different meanings and spellings which is important to remember. Most of all, one point to remember is about aisle’s figurative meaning in politics. It shows the divisions between parties.
What Did You Learn?
Finally, it is concluded that homonyms, aisle vs. isle, have different meanings and functions.
Aisle is a walkway or a passageway that is usually created in supermarkets, halls, buses, airplanes etc.
Isle, on the other hand, is a short term for island meaning ‘a small island’.
