double-crossing (verb) — To betray or go back on
double crossing sounds exactly like double-crossing but has a different meaning and spelling. Mixing these up is one of the most common spelling mistakes in English.
double-crossing
verb
To betray or go back on
How to Remember the Difference
- → Focus on meaning first — once you know what each word means, the correct spelling follows naturally.
- → Write a test sentence for each word and save it as a reference.
- → When in doubt, look up the definition — if it doesn't match your sentence, switch to the homophone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a homophone of double-crossing?
double crossing is a homophone of "double-crossing". They sound identical when spoken but have different meanings and spellings.
What is the difference between double-crossing and double crossing?
"double-crossing" and "double crossing" sound the same but have different meanings. See the definitions above for how to use each correctly.
What is a homophone?
A homophone is a word that sounds exactly like another word but has a different meaning and often a different spelling. Examples include "their / there / they're", "to / too / two", and "double-crossing / double crossing". Homophones are a common source of spelling and grammar mistakes.
How do I remember the difference between double-crossing and double crossing?
A good strategy is to memorize a short sentence that uses each word correctly, then recall that sentence when you are unsure. For example, focus on the meaning first — then let the spelling follow from context. Reading and writing regularly also helps these distinctions become automatic.