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  4. Peak vs. Peek vs. Pique
Commonly Confused Words

Peak vs. Peek vs. Pique

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Peak, peek, and pique sound the same but have very different meanings. Mixing them up is extremely common, so here’s how to keep them clear.

Peak

Peak is a noun or verb related to the highest point of something.

  • We reached the peak of the mountain.
  • His career peaked in 2018.
  • Traffic is heavy during peak hours.

Peek

Peek is a verb meaning “to look quickly or secretly.”

  • Don’t peek at your presents!
  • She took a quick peek at the test answers.
  • I’ll peek out the window to check the weather.

Pique

Pique is a verb meaning “to stimulate” or “to cause curiosity or interest.” It can also mean “to irritate.”

  • The mystery novel piqued my interest.
  • His comment piqued her curiosity.
  • She left in a moment of pique (noun: annoyance).

💡 Tip

  • Peak → like a mountain peak (highest point).
  • Peek → has “ee,” like two eyes looking.
  • Pique → a fancy word that piques your curiosity.

Test your knowledge 📝

Question 1 sur 8Score: 0/8

The hikers finally reached the mountain ___.

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