Noboru
Hi, everyone. I have one question, which may sound a bit silly. In order to memorize the word 'strait', I think it would be convenient to try to memorize it by saying ' a straight strait ' because the repetition of the same sound would make it easier to remember the word. However, is it OK to say ' a straight strait ' ? Doesn't it sound strange?
Apr 10, 2022 9:53 PM
Answers · 8
3
Hi Noboru! It's not unusual to "play" with words when learning English. We are infamous for homonyms. The straight, strait flowed straight to the mainland. It's not fair to pay a fare for the fare at the fair. To answer your question, it's fun to do but unlikely to be used normally for communication because of the possibility of mixing up the meanings. That's just my two cents worth.
April 10, 2022
1
It does sound strange and contrived, but it is perfectly correct. So if it helps you to remember the word, go ahead. It's no stranger than these: "I know no rules for English spelling." "If the diagonals are equal, it is a square square." "What play did the playwright write?" "I can't glue it together." "So sew it." "Are you sure this is the right rite?" I would add, though, that "straight" is a very common word; it is basic vocabulary; it is used all the time. It is important to know how to spell "straight." "Strait" is a rare word. It is mostly used in a geographical context. I am not sure why you want to memorize the word "strait." Also, even though "a straight strait" makes perfect sense, most _geographical_ straits are not straight so it is not something you would say very often!
April 10, 2022
1
You see, Julie gave you a straight up answer.
April 10, 2022
1
It's definitely a good way to memorize it. It does sound strange, but nevertheless it's correct to say, "a straight strait," even though it's hard to say with a straight face. :)
April 10, 2022
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