Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) Practice Test

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Prepare for the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment. Study effectively with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ace your exam preparation today!

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Which term describes words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings?

Homographs
Homonyms
Capitonyms
Synonyms

The correct answer is: Homonyms

The correct answer is homonyms. Homonyms are defined as words that sound the same but have different meanings and, importantly, may also have different spellings. A classic example of homonyms would be the words "bare" and "bear." Understanding homonyms is important in language as they can lead to playful puns, as well as potential confusion in communication if the context does not clarify which meaning is intended. This characteristic of having distinct meanings despite sounding alike underscores their unique role in the richness of the language. Homographs, on the other hand, refer specifically to words that are spelled the same but may have different pronunciations and meanings, such as "lead" (to guide) and "lead" (a type of metal). Capitonyms are words that change meaning and pronunciation when capitalized, like "March" (the month) versus "march" (to walk in a military manner). Synonyms are words that have similar meanings but are not necessarily related to how they sound or are spelled.