Dual or Duel?

What Is the Difference between "Dual" and "Duel"?

"Dual" and "duel" are easy to confuse because they sound so similar (i.e., they are nearly perfect homonyms).
  • "Dual" means duo or double. For example:
    • He has dual standards.
  • "Duel" means a combat arranged by two people or groups. For example:
    • I challenge you to a duel.
    dual or duel?

    More about "Dual" and "Duel"

    Dual

    The adjective "dual" means double or composed of two parts.

    Example sentences with "dual":
    • After I marry, I will retain dual nationality. correct tick
    • I live a dual life. On the red carpet, it's complete glam. But at home, I'm a jeans and T-shirt kind of girl. correct tick (Actress Ashley Greene)

    Duel

    The noun "duel" is a prearranged combat between two people or groups. The word "duel" can also be used as a verb.

    Example sentences with "duel":
    • Her father was injured in a duel. correct tick
    • (Here, "duel" is a noun.)
    • They will duel at sundown. correct tick
    • (In this example, "duel" is a verb.)
    You will also see "duel" being used figuratively. For example:
    • The study of beauty is a duel in which the artist cries with terror before being defeated. correct tick (French poet Charles Baudelaire)
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    This page was written by Craig Shrives.