SPEAK with understanding
→ Read or Listen to the passage. Locate all of the meanings of the homonym or heteronym. Studying for a test: limit and time your responses to 30-60 seconds.

HOMONYM: DATE

“This morning, my teacher asked us to write today’s date on the top of our homework. I quickly jotted it down and passed my paper forward. After school, my cousin invited me to join her on a date at the café. She was nervous but excited, hoping the afternoon would go well. On the way home, my uncle offered me a sweet date from the small bag he bought at the market. Its chewy texture and rich flavor made me smile. Later that night, my mom reminded me that everyone should learn how to date documents properly so they can be organized in the future.”

How many meanings did you find?

List of the different ways that this word can be used.

SPEAK w/ P I E

(Pronunciation Intonation Expression)

  • Pronunciation
    Date = /deɪt/ → sounds like late

  • Intonation Practice
    “Write today’s date on the paper.”
    “They went on a date to the café.”
    “He ate a sweet date after dinner.”
    “Please date the letter before mailing.”

  • Expression Tip
    Remember: The word will be stressed differently depending on how it is being used.

SEVERAL MEANINGS

  1. A day on the calendar.

  2. A romantic meeting.

  3. A sweet fruit.

  4. To mark with a specific time or year.

IDIOMS/EXPRESSION

  • Up to date – current, modern.

  • Out of date – old or expired.

  • Double date – two couples go out together.

  • Save the date – remember an upcoming event.