polish vs Polish pronounciation

There is one word in the English language that changes its meaning and pronounciation, depending on whether it is capitalized: polish.

Uncapitalized, polish refers to a substance used to give something a smooth and shiny surface when rubbed in, or the act of making the surface of something smooth and shiny by rubbing it.

With a capital, Polish refers to things of or relating to the nation of Poland.


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3 responses to “What a Difference a Capital Letter Makes”

  1. I love this! It’s so true, will share it with my class. Trying to think of some more examples, do you have any?

    1. As far as I know, it is the only word that changes both meaning and pronounciation when capitalized. Other words change meaning when capitalized, such as china, comet, jack, turkey, etc.

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