How to use the word CART/KART, whose meanings are below:
-
(KART)
a heavy vehicle, usually having four wheels, which is driven by some racers in the race ground. -
(CART)
a light open horse-drawn vehicle having two wheels and springs, for business or pleasure. -
(CART)
any small vehicle drawn or pushed by hand, such as a trolley.
So while having a conversation with my friend I said we'll go to cart race (vehicle driven by horse in India), but unfortunately he thought we're going to kart race (four wheeler vehicle driven by racer).
When texting I knew there won't be a problem, but while speaking these words how can I ensure there is no confusion for him? As: should I pronounce those words differently to make myself clear or should I explain? What is better when using other words with the same pronunciation?
Best Answer
From Wikipedia, "the term 'cart' has come to mean nearly any small conveyance, from shopping carts to golf carts, without regard to number of wheels, load carried, or means of propulsion."
In American English, "kart" refers to a very small race car, often called a "go-kart". "Cart" is used for everything else. Because "cart" and "kart" are pronounced the same, the context has to provide the meaning in conversation.
"Cart" has so many possible meanings that it is usually preceded by another word to describe the type of cart. Examples include golf cart, shopping cart, hand cart, horse cart, go-kart, utility cart, tool cart, computer cart, luggage cart, ice cream cart, food cart, and beverage cart.