They look similar but mean very different things and are pronounced differently.
"Live" (/lɪv/) is the verb to reside or to be alive. "Where do you live?" = where is your home? Also the adjective "live": "a live concert" = a concert happening in real time.
Where do you live?
She lives in Madrid with her family.
He lived in New York for ten years.
"Leave" (/liːv/) is the verb to go away, to depart, or to let something remain somewhere. "I need to leave now" = I must go. "Leave it here" = let it stay here.
What time does your flight leave?
I usually leave work at six.
Don't leave your bag on the floor.
Common mistake
Pronouncing "live" and "leave" the same is a frequent error. "Live" (verb, to reside) is pronounced /lɪv/ like "give". "Leave" is pronounced /liːv/ like "believe". They sound completely different.
Trick to remember it
Quick rule
Did you know?
"Live" has an additional very interesting twist: as a verb it is /lɪv/ (to reside), but as an adjective it is /laɪv/ (broadcasting or performing live): "a live concert" (pronounced /laɪv/). The same spelling, two completely different pronunciations, two different meanings. "Live" also appears in idiomatic expressions with meanings far from the original: "live it up" (to enjoy to the fullest), "live up to expectations" (to meet expectations), "live and let live" (mind your own business), "live wire" (a very energetic and active person, also a wire carrying electric current).
Exercise 1 · Pick the right one
She _____ s in a small flat near the city centre.
Exercise 2 · Pick the right one
The train _____ at 8:15. Don't be late.
Exercise 3 · Form the word
"Above" is at a higher level without contact; "over" implies covering, movement, or crossing.
"Actually" corrects or contrasts an assumption; "really" intensifies or confirms.
'Currently' means 'at the present time'; 'actually' means 'in reality', not 'nowadays'.
'Adopt' means to take something on as your own; 'adapt' means to adjust to something new.
Bryan López
Founder of SpeakUP Academy