Commonly Confused Words: Oar vs. Or vs. Ore

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What does each word mean?

An oar an implement used to propel or steer a boat.

Here is oar used in an example sentence:

  • I used two oars to row the boat.


The word or is used in a sentence to link an alternative.

Here is or used in some example sentences:

  • Do you prefer apples or oranges?
  • It might rain or it might be sunny.
  • You can work on your Course Pathway or play a spelling game. 


Ore a mineral that contains metal that is valuable enough to be mined.

Here is ore used in an example sentence:

  • They extracted iron ore from the earth.


Where does each word come from?

  • Oar comes from the Middle English ‘or’, from the Old English ‘ar’.
     
  • Or comes from the Old English conjunction ‘oþþe’.
     
  • Ore comers from the Old English ‘ora’. 
     

Are there any tricks to help remember the difference these words?


25 May 2023
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One of the students has put in a huge amount of effort in completing Spellzone at least 3 times a week since his arrival with us in January. Looking at his scores after the latest GL testing, his standardised score has risen from 99 to 131. This is a truly phenomenal result. I just wanted to share the best result I have ever seen.

Terrie Penrose-Toms, Casterton College

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