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: NAIL

“I grabbed a hammer and drove a nail into the wall so I could hang a picture frame. The sound echoed through the hallway. Later that day, I clipped a broken nail on my finger because it kept catching on my sweater. My sister polished her nails with bright red paint, showing them off proudly. That evening, my brother threw a dart at the board and managed to nail the bullseye on his first try. Everyone cheered. Before bed, I reread my essay for class and realized I had really nailed the assignment—I explained my argument clearly and thoroughly.”

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
    Nail = /neɪl/ → sounds like pail

  • Intonation Practice
    “He hammered a nail into the board.”
    “She painted her nails bright blue.”
    “He nailed the bullseye with one shot.”
    “She really nailed the project.”

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

SEVERAL MEANINGS

  1. A thin metal fastener.

  2. A fingernail or toenail.

  3. To hit or catch exactly.

  4. To succeed perfectly.

IDIOMS/EXPRESSION

  • Hit the nail on the head – be exactly right.

  • Hard as nails – very tough.

  • Nail down – secure or finalize.