Medal vs. Meddle: What's the Difference?
The words medal and meddle are homophones, which means they sound similar but have different meanings. A medal is typically a flat piece of metal stamped with a design or inscription to commemorate an event or awarded as a distinction to someone, such as an athlete or military personnel, for outstanding achievement or bravery. On the other hand, meddle means to interfere in or busy oneself unduly with something that is not one's concern.
How do you use the word medal in a sentence?
The word medal is primarily used to refer to a piece or plate of metal, often bearing an inscription or design, that is bestowed as a mark of honor. It is commonly used in the context of competitions, military awards, or to acknowledge significant contributions. In every use, medal carries a connotation of prestige and recognition.
Examples of medal in a sentence
- She won a gold medal at the Olympic Games for her record-breaking performance.
- The general was decorated with numerous medals for his extraordinary service to the country.
- Each year, the most outstanding students receive a medal in recognition of their academic achievements.
How do you use the word meddle in a sentence?
To meddle means to intrude in other people's affairs or business without their permission, often resulting in unwanted or negative outcomes. It implies a level of interference that is usually frowned upon. Use meddle when you want to describe someone's unnecessary involvement that can potentially cause trouble.
Examples of meddle in a sentence
- She did not appreciate it when her neighbors began to meddle in her family's affairs.
- The company's CEO warned the staff not to meddle with the computer systems without proper authorization.
- In the famous quote, 'Do not meddle in the affairs of wizards, for they are subtle and quick to anger.'
Medal and meddle definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation
Medal definition:
A medal is a small, typically circular and flat object made of metal that is awarded to a person who has won a competition or who has behaved in a particularly brave way.
Medal parts of speech:
Medal pronunciation:
Medal is pronounced as /ˈmɛd.əl/ with the emphasis on the first syllable.
Meddle definition:
To meddle is to involve oneself in a matter without right or invitation; to interfere offensively or annoyingly in someone else's concerns.
Meddle parts of speech:
Meddle pronunciation:
Meddle is pronounced as /ˈmɛd.əl/ with the emphasis on the first syllable, identical to 'medal'.
A medal is a small, typically circular and flat object made of metal that is awarded to a person who has won a competition or who has behaved in a particularly brave way.
Medal parts of speech:
- As a noun: He won a medal in the 100-meter dash.
- As a verb (used less commonly): She medalled twice in this year’s championships.
Medal pronunciation:
Medal is pronounced as /ˈmɛd.əl/ with the emphasis on the first syllable.
Meddle definition:
To meddle is to involve oneself in a matter without right or invitation; to interfere offensively or annoyingly in someone else's concerns.
Meddle parts of speech:
- As a verb: They were caught meddling in the election.
- There is no alternate part of speech commonly used for meddle.
Meddle pronunciation:
Meddle is pronounced as /ˈmɛd.əl/ with the emphasis on the first syllable, identical to 'medal'.
Medal vs. meddle in a nutshell
In summary, medal is an item often awarded for excellence or bravery, while meddle is an action that involves interfering in matters that are not one's concern. Despite sounding the same, the two have distinctly different meanings and uses. Medal can be both a noun and, less commonly, a verb, but meddle is used solely as a verb. When remembering the difference, think of a medal as a symbol of achievement and meddle as unwelcome intrusion.
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