Minimal Pair

Definition

A minimal pair is two words that differ in just one element, such as BAT and CAT or SHIP and SHOP. Minimal pairs isolate exactly which letter or sound distinguishes meaning.

Why it matters

Minimal-pair thinking is exactly the reasoning a single Wordle clue triggers — change one position and the candidate changes.

Examples

• PIN and PAN (vowel differs).
• CARE and CORE (vowel differs).

Best practices

• Use minimal pairs to test one position at a time.
• Generate near-neighbours of a leading candidate.

Frequently asked