English abounds with words that do not stick to normal spelling and pronunciation rules—tricky words fit into this category. Tricky words list puzzle children and adults alike, particularly while reading, writing, or speaking fluently.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss:
✔ What are tricky words?
✔ Tricky words list (general)
✔ List of tricky words for children
✔ List of difficult words for Adults
✔ Tricky words in Jolly Phonics:
✔ Tips on mastering difficult words
What Are Tricky Words in English?
Tricky words in English (or sight words) are words that do not read according to simple phonics rules. They have irregular spellings and pronunciations and thus prove to be difficult to read and spell accurately.
Examples:
“One” (rhyming with won)
“Said,” (pronounced sad)
“Wednesday” (silent “d”)
These words must be memorized because they do not obey typical patterns.
Tricky Words List (With Examples)
Below is the Tricky Words list with examples:
| Word | Reason Why It’s Tricky | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Their | Refers to something belonging to them | Their automobile |
| You’re | Usually mistaken for “your” | You’re my best friend |
| Affect | Often combined with “effect” | Rain will affect your mood. |
| Accept | Sounds like “except” | Rain will affect your mood. |
| Island | Silent “s” | We visited an island. |
List of Tricky Words for Children
Here are some few tricky words for children:
- the
- said
- was
- they
- could
- should
- would
- once
- because
- through
Example Sentences:
She said her name.
They were at the park.
Tricky Words List for Adults
See some tricky words list for adults:
| Word | Common Mistake | Correct Use |
|---|---|---|
| Lose | Frequently spelt “loose” | Don’t lose your |
| Principal | confused with “principle” | The principal addressed students. |
| Stationary | Combined with “stationery” | The car didn’t |
Tricky words in Jolly Phonics include:
Here is a list of Tricky Words in Jolly Phonics:
Phase 2 (Beginner)
I, the, he, she, me, we, be
Phase 3 (Intermediate)
You, they, all, are, my, her
Phase 4 (Advanced)
said, have, so, do, some, come
Teaching Tip: Utilize flashcards and rhymes to assist children in memorizing them.
How to Master Tricky Words?
Seeing and hearing is beneficial to memory. Flashcards – Repetition is most effective visually. Play word games – Such as “Word Bingo” or “Memory Match”. Write Sentences – Practice using tricky words in context. Every Day Practice – Consistency is key
Final Thoughts – Tricky Words List
Tricky words list is difficult to master, but through practice and patience, anyone is capable of mastering them. Whether you are a parent assisting a child or an adult trying to improve in English, this list assists you in evading common errors.
