Another set of homphones that cause confusion includes the words sew, so, and sow. Although these three terms sound very much alike, their uses and meanings are far from similar. This post will present their definitions along with examples so you can identify which word is more appropriate to use in your sentence.
The word sew is used as a verb which means “to join, fasten, or repair something by making stitches with a needle and thread or a sewing machine.”
Sew it, code it, build it: Makers gonna make this weekend at Denver Maker Faire
The Denver PostLTHS Students to sew customized ties for 10 staff members
Chicago TribuneDays for Girls sew 100 invaluable gifts for those in need
Gladstone Observer
In relation to the term, there is a verb phrase “sew something up” which means “to bring something to a favourable conclusion” or “achieve exclusive control over something.”
Central Valley routs Lewis and Clark to sew up GSL 4A title
The Spokesman-ReviewOnline apparel retailer Stitch Fix aims to sew up its own IPO
San Francisco Business Times
Meanwhile, the word so functions as an adverb meaning “to such a great extent” or “to the same extent.”
12 Things That Made Getting A Dog So Much Easier For Me
BuzzFeed NewsGolden Knights reminded us why sports can matter so much
New York PostAn Appetizer So Good It Should Be Dinner
New York Times
It can also serve as a conjunction which means “and for this reason” or “in order that.”
The fridge that sends you shelfies… so you’ll never need a shopping list again
Daily MailAs goes Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation, so goes Congress
Washington ExaminerNY Times changes social media guidelines so reporters don’t appear biased
Fox News
On the other hand, the term sow can be used as a noun referring to “an adult female swine and of various other animals” or “a channel that conducts molten metal to molds.”
Research finds ADM’s CitriStim enhances sow reproductive performance
National Hog FarmerThai agribusiness Betagro to move away from sow crates
Pig Progress
It may also be used as a verb meaning “to plant seed for growth especially by scattering” or “to set something in motion.”
Hindu festival Dashain begins in Nepal with sowing of maize, barley
Outlook IndiaKen Burns: How Vietnam War sowed the seeds of a divided America
The GuardianEarly sowing offers best results in southern high rainfall zone
Grain Central
Now that we’ve discussed the different uses and meanings of sew, so, and sow, can you write your own sentences using the three terms on the comment section below?
