What's the Difference Between 'Aisle' and 'Isle'?

In this blog post we look at when to use aisle and when to use isle.

'Aisle' or 'Isle'?

"Aisle" and "isle" are two words that are often confused because they are pronounced the same way, but they have different meanings and spellings.

An "aisle" is a long, narrow passage or passageway, typically found in a building such as a church, store, or theater. It is used to allow people to walk through or move around a space. The word "aisle" is derived from the Old French "aille," which means "passage."

An "isle" (also spelled "island") is a piece of land that is completely surrounded by water. It is usually smaller than a continent and may be part of a larger landmass. The word "isle" is derived from the Old English "igland," which means "island."

So, while "aisle" refers to a passageway or corridor within a building or structure, "isle" refers to a piece of land surrounded by water.

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference:

  • I need to go down the aisle to get to the bathroom. (Correct)

  • I need to go down the isle to get to the bathroom. (Incorrect)

  • I'm going to the grocery store to buy some milk. Do you want to meet me in the dairy aisle? (Correct)

  • I'm going to the grocery store to buy some milk. Do you want to meet me in the dairy isle? (Incorrect)

  • We're going to take a vacation to a tropical isle this year. (Correct)

  • We're going to take a vacation to a tropical aisle this year. (Incorrect)

Examples of Aisle in a Sentence

Here are 10 sentences using "aisle":

  1. She walked down the aisle to get to her seat on the plane.

  2. The shelves in the store were arranged in rows with aisles in between.

  3. He walked up the aisle to get to the front of the church.

  4. The aisle in the theater was too narrow for two people to walk side by side.

  5. The aisle in the grocery store was cluttered with carts and baskets.

  6. She walked down the aisle at the wedding ceremony.

  7. The plane's aisle was filled with passengers trying to get to their seats.

  8. He walked up the aisle to get to the stage at the concert.

  9. The aisle in the stadium was crowded with fans rushing to their seats.

  10. The aisle in the library was lined with shelves of books.

Examples of Isle in a Sentence

Here are 10 sentences using "isle":

  1. The island was known as the Isle of Man.

  2. The tropical isle was a popular vacation destination.

  3. The isle was surrounded by crystal clear waters.

  4. He dreamed of one day owning a small isle in the Caribbean.

  5. The isle was known for its beautiful beaches and lush vegetation.

  6. The ancient ruins on the isle were a popular tourist attraction.

  7. She spent her honeymoon on a romantic isle in the Mediterranean.

  8. The isle was home to a diverse array of plants and animals.

  9. He wrote a book about his travels to different isles around the world.

  10. The isle was a peaceful place, with no cars or noise pollution.


Aisle or Isle
Aisle or Isle