CURB vs KERB: top tips to help you remember the difference
The words CURB and KERB are easy to confuse because they sound the same – but that doesn’t mean they can be used interchangeably! Read on to remember the difference between these two confusing words.
Here are my top tips to learn the difference between CURB and KERB.
When to use CURB
CURB means limit or restrain. It’s also the American English spelling of the British English word, KERB – meaning the edge of a pavement (or sidewalk).
You can use CURB in a sentence like this:
“CURB your spending habits before you get into debt!”
OR
“Avoid hitting the CURB when you park!”
When to use KERB
KERB is a noun and the American English spelling of the British English word, CURB. It describes the raised edge of a pavement or path.
You can use KERB in a sentence like this:
“Parking on the KERB is bad for your tyres.”
OR
“Learner drivers often hit the KERB.”
Pro tip
To remember the difference, think of the popular American sitcom CURB Your Enthusiasm.
I hope these tips help you remember the difference between CURB and KERB in future!
Get more simple, memorable spelling tips in The Little Book of Confusables 1 + The Little Book of Confusables 2
My four-times award-winning books take the mystery out of misused words for just just £11.95. You’ll wonder how you managed without them!
GOLD award winner: 2023 eLit book awards/Distinguished Favorite: 2023 NYC Big Book Awards.
More than 1,000 misused words demystified
Master 1,000+ confusing words with the multi-award-winning Little Book of Confusables 1 + 2 – jam-packed with memorable, fun spelling and usage tips: from ACCEPT + EXCEPT and OPTIMAL + OPTIMUM, to BARE + BEAR and PURPOSEFULLY + PURPOSELY.
