Root-Route | Commonly Confused Words
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Root vs. Route

Root

/ruːt/
The part of a plant that grows underground and absorbs water and nutrients

Examples:

The tree has deep roots.What is the root of this problem?

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Route

/ruːt/
A way or course taken to get from one place to another

Examples:

This is the route to the school.The bus follows a different route today.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Remember that root has a double o like in food, suggesting something fundamental as food is to life.
  • Route contains ute, as in commute, which involves planning a pathway or course.
  • A tree has roots (root) while a GPS provides you with routes (route).
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