Peak vs. Peek: Which is Which?

The main difference is that peak is a noun referring to the highest point of something, while peek is a noun or verb referring to the act of sneaking a quick look at something, usually in secret.

These homophones (words that share the same pronunciation) are a commonly mistaken pair, and you'll find out their correct usage below.

Peak vs. Peek

Peak (noun): "Peak" refers to the highest point or summit of something, whether it's a mountain, a career, or a physical condition. It indicates the pinnacle or zenith of a particular context.

Peek (verb/noun): "Peek" is a verb that means to sneak a quick glance or look at something. It implies taking a brief and typically secretive glimpse. You can also use "peek" as a noun, meaning the act of sneaking a quick glance.

While they sound exactly the same spoken out loud, these words mean completely different things. Peek is something you can climb towards, while peak is something you do. One fun way to remember which is which is to think of the two e's in peek as two eyes glancing to the side (👀)!

Sneak Peek

A "sneak peek" is a colloquial expression used to describe a brief or early glimpse or preview of something that is not yet fully available to the public. It is often used in various contexts, such as entertainment, product launches, or events, to generate excitement and anticipation among people. Here are some common examples of how "sneak peek" is used:

Movies and TV Shows: Film studios and television networks often release teaser trailers or short clips from upcoming movies or episodes to give audiences a sneak peek of what to expect. This helps build anticipation and interest in the project.
Fashion: In the fashion industry, designers may offer a sneak peek of their upcoming collections to the press or select individuals before they are officially revealed during a fashion show or event. This allows for early buzz and media coverage.
Technology: Companies developing new products, such as smartphones or software, might provide a sneak peek by showcasing some of the features or design elements before the product's official release. This can generate interest and pre-orders.

Example Sentences

Peak (Noun):

The climbers reached the peak of the mountain after a challenging ascent.
His career reached its peak when he became the CEO of the company.
The heatwave in July brought temperatures to their peak for the season.
Standing atop the peak, she enjoyed a breathtaking view of the valley below.
The hikers finally reached the peak of the mountain and were rewarded with a breathtaking view.
During winter, the temperature at the mountain peak can drop significantly.
The athlete's performance reached its peak during the championship game.
We decided to visit the ski resort at the peak of the skiing season.
The company's profits reached a historic peak this year.
The sunsets from this hilltop are at their peak beauty in the summertime.

Peek (Verb):

She couldn't resist the temptation to peek at her birthday presents hidden in the closet.
The curious child peeked through the keyhole to see what was happening in the room.
I couldn't help but peek at the surprise party preparations before the guests arrived.
The cat peeked out from behind the curtain, intrigued by the commotion outside.
According to superstition, the groom shouldn't peek at the bride's wedding dress before the wedding day.

Peek (Noun):

I couldn't resist taking a quick peek at the beautifully wrapped presents under the Christmas tree.
As I opened the door, I caught a brief peek of the stunning sunset over the horizon.
The child's mischievous peek from behind the curtain gave away his hiding spot.
She got a sneak peek at the upcoming fashion collection before it was officially unveiled.
During the hike, we took a refreshing break by the waterfall and enjoyed a peaceful peek at nature's beauty.

Practice Questions

I couldn't resist taking a peak/peek inside the beautifully wrapped gift to see what was inside.
He gave me a sneak peak/peek of his artwork before the gallery exhibition.
Can you give me a sneak peak/peek of your presentation slides for tomorrow's meeting?
The mountaineers reached the peak/peek of the mountain after a grueling climb, and the view from the summit was breathtaking.
During the summer, temperatures in the desert often soar to their peak/peek, reaching well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Her performance on the track reached its peak/peek when she broke the world record in the 100-meter sprint.
The children giggled as they played hide-and-seek, taking turns trying to peak/peek from behind the curtains.
The stock market reached its peak/peek last year, but it has since experienced a significant decline.
The artist's creativity was at its peak/peek, and she produced a series of masterful paintings that captured the essence of the era.
She slowly opened the door and took a cautious peak/peek into the dark room.

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