Peek vs. peak vs. pique: Which one to use?

Key takeaways:

  • Peek means to take a quick glance or look (e.g., "Take a peek at this article.").

  • Peak refers to the highest point or summit, often literally or figuratively (e.g., "The mountain peak was breathtaking.").

  • Pique means to stimulate interest or provoke curiosity or resentment (e.g., "The mystery novel piqued my curiosity.").

Part of the series Grammar Debugged—English for Devs

These homophonesHomophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings and often different spellings. They can be confusing because they sound identical, but they are used in different contexts. can be confusing, but each has a distinct meaning and use. The words peek, peak, and pique are often confused, though they have different meanings. Peek refers to a quick look, peak is the highest point, and pique means to provoke interest. This article will guide you on when to use each one correctly.

Peek: A quick look

The word peek is used to describe a brief or secretive look at something.

Examples of peek

  • She peeked through the curtains to see who was outside.

  • Take a peek at the new design before we finalize it.

Peak: The highest point

Peak refers to the topmost point of something, like a mountain, career, or achievement.

Examples of peak

  • We finally reached the mountain’s peak after hours of hiking.

  • His career peaked when he won the championship.

Pique: To stimulate interest or irritate

Pique has two main meanings: to arouse interest or to irritate someone.

Examples of pique

  • The unusual headline piqued my curiosity. (stimulating interest)

  • He was piqued by her dismissive attitude. (feeling irritated)

Peek vs. Peak vs. Pique
Peek vs. Peak vs. Pique

Quick test

Choose the correct word (peak or pique or peek) for each sentence:

  1. He was ________ when he found out he wasn’t invited to the event.

  1. The stock market is at its ________ right now

  1. I couldn’t help but _________ inside the box to see the gift.

  1. Her performance has _________, and she might not improve further.

Common mistakes

Here are some frequent errors and how to avoid them:

Using peak instead of peek:

  • Incorrect: “Take a peak at this article.”

  • Correct: “Take a peek at this article.”

Using peek instead of peak:

  • Incorrect: “The hikers reached the peek of the mountain.”

  • Correct: “The hikers reached the peak of the mountain.”

Misusing pique as peak or peek:

  • Incorrect: “The mystery novel peaked my curiosity.”

  • Correct: “The mystery novel piqued my curiosity.”

Peek vs. Peak vs. Pique

Word

Role

Function

Examples

Peek

To glance or look quickly

Verb

"She peeked through the keyhole."

Peak

The highest point of something

Noun/Verb/Adjective

"They climbed to the peak of the mountain."

Pique

To stimulate interest or provoke irritation

Verb

"The trailer piqued my curiosity about the movie."

Conclusion

In conclusion, while peek, peak, and pique may sound alike, they each have distinct meanings and uses. Peek refers to a quick or secretive look, peak denotes the highest point of something, and pique means to stimulate or provoke interest. Understanding the correct context for each word ensures clear and precise communication.

Test your understanding: Peek vs. peak vs. pique

Match the examples that demonstrate the difference between peek vs. peak vs. pique:

Match The Answer
Select an option from the left-hand side

Can I take a quick _______ at your notes?

peek

The breathtaking view from the mountain’s _______ made the hike worthwhile.

peak

Her comments ________ his curiosity about the project.

piqued

The roller coaster reaches its ________ at the top of the loop.

Just one more ________ at the surprise, please!

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Frequently asked questions

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Is peek the same as peak?

No. They sound the same (homophones) but have different meanings.

Is it "peak performance" or "peek performance"?

It is peak performance. This refers to the highest level of achievement or ability.

Is it "have a peek" or "take a peek"?

The correct answer is “take a peek.” This means to quickly and secretly look at something.

What does "peek" mean?

Peek means to look quickly or secretly at something.

  • Example: She took a peek at the gift before it was wrapped.

Is it "peak season" or "peek season"?

Peak season is correct, referring to the highest or most intense period.

  • Example: Tourism is at its peak season during summer.

Is it "peak my interest" or "pique my interest"?

Pique my interest is correct, meaning to stimulate curiosity.

  • Example: The mystery novel really piqued my interest.

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