What is the difference between peak and pique?

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What is the difference between peak and pique?

The words "peak" and "pique" are often confused due to their similar spellings and pronunciations. However, they have distinct meanings and usage in the English language.

Firstly, "peak" is primarily used as a noun and can refer to the pointed top or highest point of a mountain, hill, or any elevated object. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the highest level or point of something, such as a person's performance, success, or popularity. For example, "She reached the peak of her career" or "The mountain peak was covered in snow."

Additionally, "peak" can function as a verb, meaning to reach the highest point or level of something. For instance, "The company's sales peaked in the fourth quarter."

On the other hand, "pique" is primarily used as a verb and can have two distinct meanings. Firstly, it can mean to provoke or arouse someone's interest, curiosity, or attention. For example, "The intriguing plot piqued my interest in the novel" or "Her comment piqued his curiosity about the topic."

Secondly, "pique" can also mean to feel resentment, irritation, or offense. It is often used in the phrase "to pique someone's interest" or "to pique someone's curiosity." For instance, "His dismissive attitude piqued her."

It is important to note that "pique" is not commonly used as a noun, whereas "peak" can be used as both a noun and a verb.

In summary, the main difference between "peak" and "pique" lies in their meanings and usage. "Peak" refers to the highest point or level of something, while "pique" means to provoke interest or curiosity, or to feel resentment or offense. Understanding the distinctions between these words will help in using them correctly in various contexts.