Root and route are similar-sounding terms with almost similar spelling, but they are entirely different. Root is a part of a plant or an origin of something, while route is a path. Read on to learn more about the correct usage of each word.
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What Is a Route?
As a noun, a route is a way between one place and another. It can be something strictly defined, as in a road, or it can be more abstract. On the other hand, its verb form is to set a course or send someone on it. For example, you may have had a flight routed to another city because of bad weather.
The word came about from Old English and derives from the Old French rute (“road”).
Example sentences:
- Historic Route 66 is one of the most storied highways in America.
- Our route to this impasse over what to do has been long and complicated.
- What’s the best route to take between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks?
- The GPS will route us on a course to avoid a major accident delay.
- Thunderstorms could cause the pilot to route us on a longer but safer course.
Tip: Rout is not a misspelling of route. Rout, as a noun, means defeat or disorderly retreat.
When and How to Use Route
When writing route, remember that it’s a noun or a verb related to travel or to the steps leading to a circumstance. So, how do you pronounce this word? The pronunciation of route is raut.
What Is a Root?
Root can also be a noun or a verb. As a noun, its most common meaning refers to the origin or base of something. For example, you can have the root of a tree or tooth or the root (main cause) of a problem. Think of “the root of all evil.”
The verb meaning of root can refer to establishing, going through, or removing something. For instance, a mechanic might root out a problem affecting a car. It also means enthusiastically supporting someone or something. Fans root for their favorite teams, for example.
Root comes from the Old English rōt, which came from the Old Norse rót.
Example sentences:
- Mowing over a root can damage both it and the blade.
- The root of our dilemma is that no one really wants to take the lead on it.
- Watch the pig root about in the dirt for food morsels.
- Dictators often root out their opponents and imprison or exile them.
- The root themes in this story are revenge and redemption.
When and How to Use Root
As you can see, root can fit in various contexts. Whenever you are talking about the base of the plant or the origin of something, you should use this word. In writing, be careful not to use it to refer to a highway, course, or path to a specified direction.
What’s the Difference?
The main difference between the words root and route is that root is the source of something or a part of a tree, while route is a path to a destination or achieving a goal.
Tip: From route, we also get the word router, which has two meanings. One refers to a network device (your internet router), while the other is a woodworking tool.
Trick to Remembering the Correct Spelling
An easy way to remember that route is the word with travel-related meanings is “close by.” There are countless road signs identifying “Route X,” for instance. Another: when going out, you need a good route. For root, think of the word tree. Both have identical consecutive vowels.
Final Thoughts
Using root or route can be tricky since they sound the same. But remember root is associated with the underground part of a plant or the origin of something, whereas route is a path to something.
