Brooch vs. Broach

If you look up “brooch” and “broach” on google translate, you’ll most probably get the same result, as if they would mean the same. It’s not the first error of this kind that appears this way, and this is a good reason why you should first check your words into more notorious dictionaries before using them, especially in a formal or official context. In fact, despite their so similar spellings and pronunciation, despite the confusion that google and lots of English users have created about “brooch” and “broach” being perfect synonyms, they are NOT!

“Brooch” and “broach” don’t only carry different spellings randomly; if you also doubt their meanings, then this article will surely be useful to avoid the trap and remember how to correctly distinguish and use these words anytime. Check below what “brooch” means and how it is so different from “broach”.

Brooch vs. Broach

First of all, these words can never be synonyms due to grammatical reasons. The rule says that a relation of synonymity can also be established between same parts of speech, which is not the case for “brooch” and “broach”. More exactly, a first reason why “brooch” and “broach” do not mean the same and cannot be used identically is that one is a verb, whereas the other is a noun.

Secondly, the two words come from completely diverse lexical fields, defining concepts with no relevance one to the other. So confusing “brooch” for “broach” is not only a spelling mistake, but will actually result in a confusing message. Below you’ll find exactly how to spell “brooch” and “broach” correctly and how to choose the right one according to their real meanings.

When do we use “brooch”?

“Brooch” is a noun. It defines a piece of jewelry, usually worn by and made for women and women fashion, used as a fine, elegant accessory that is fastened onto clothes, usually with a pin.

Example: She got a silver brooch for her birthday, decorated with tiny diamonds and precious stones. – “brooch” is a noun referring to a fine jewel for women, fastened onto clothes with a pin.

When do we use “broach”?

“Broach” is a verb and it is used in completely different contexts from “brooch”, which is why they shouldn’t be confused. To “broach” refers to the action of bringing up something, of mentioning something; it is usually used in the form “broaching an idea/a subject/a topic etc.”, when someone is trying to start a conversation, to bring up a matter, to start talking about something that is usually embarrassing, unpleasant or difficult.

Example: I have no idea how to broach the subject of their divorce with them. – “broach” defines the action of starting talking about an idea or a subject, usually one that is uncomfortable.

Conclusion

“Brooch” and “broach” might sound similar and might be one of the most frequent English confusions. But for a grammatically correct expression of your thoughts and messages, you have to make sure you never replace them.

“Brooch” is a verb referring to bringing up an uncomfortable subject, whereas “broach” is a noun referring to a women’s piece of jewelry. The words have no relevance one for another and aren’t similar in any way, so remembering their correct definitions and uses is essential to avoid further confusions, doubts or misinterpretations.