Cay vs. Key vs. Quay – Homophones, Pronunciation & Definition

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Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

Why do the words “key,” “cay,” and “quay” all sound the same if they each have different meanings? What is up with that? Well, there’s a good reason, and it’s not just variant spelling. Each of those homophones has a different origin and just so happens to land on the same English pronunciation. But let’s explore them further so you don’t get them mixed up.

Cay vs. Key vs. Quay

Cay vs. Key vs. Quay Homophones Pronunciation Definition

Thank you, English language, for making “cay,” “key,” and “quay” all sound the same because that’s not confusing at all. I’m slathering on the sarcasm pretty heavily here because, of course, it’s confusing! So, here’s a quick breakdown of these three words for you.

  • Key: A tiny, low-lying sandy island of the reef. But it can also be used to describe the device you use to unlock things.
  • Cay: Like key, it’s a small island or reef, but this spelling is mainly used in the Caribbean, where the word derived from after being brought over by the Spanish.
  • Quay: This is always a manmade structure like a wharf or dock to which you’d tie your boat. It usually extends along the edge of a bay, harbor, or lake.

What Is the Difference Between a Key and a Cay?

So, key with a K is a noun with two definitions. One is a metal device used to unlock doors and chests. Then it can be used to describe a low-lying isle.

Cay, pronounced the same as key, is also a noun, and we use it to refer to a small island. But, as I mentioned above, it’s a spelling rooted in the Caribbean.

How Do British People Pronounce Quay?

In the UK or British English, the word “quay” is pronounced as kee, which is the preferred way to say it all around the world. But some American dictionaries claim it can also be pronounced as kway. If you’re unsure, just go with its intended sound, kee.

Is Cay the Same as Quay?

No, “cay” and “quay” are most definitely not the same words even though they sound the same, and some people might even think they’re alternative spellings. As I said earlier, a “cay” is a little, low-lying island or reef, and a “quay” is a concrete, wood, or stone platform that runs along the edge of a body of water.

Is a Key and a Quay the Same?

Nope. A “key” is a word with two uses, remember? It’s a small, metal instrument we use to open or close a lock, and a “quay” is a manmade platform or dock that hugs the edge of the water.

Sentence Examples Using the Word Cay

Cay vs. Key vs. Quay Homophones Pronunciation Definition 1
  • We took a boat to the cay for a picnic with the kids last weekend.
  • You should have seen how the cay was surrounded by crystal-clear water.
  • The cay had a beautiful beach with white sand; you must come next time.

Sentence Examples Using the Word Key

  • Oh, crap! I lost the key to my car again.
  • The key to success is hard work and dedication.
  • Can you give me a spare key to your house to watch your dogs while you’re gone?
  • We’re going to the Florida Keys for a vacation this year.

Sentence Examples Using the Word Quay

  • We walked along the quay in downtown Halifax and watched the boats go by.
  • No one is permitted to walk along the Queens quay.
  • The new cruise ship was docked at the quay for loading and unloading the visitors.
  • Our local quay was bustling with activity during the tourist season.
  • I can’t believe you bought a private island with a huge quay. 

The Key to Remember

Just remember that the two shorter words mean the same thing; a tiny low island or coral reef, but with a K, it can also be what you use to open locks. A circular quay, the longer word of the three, is a manmade structure that goes all along the water’s edge where boats often dock.