Flier or Flyer?

What Is the Difference between "Flier" and "Flyer"?

"Flier" and "Flyer" are easy to confuse because they sound identical (i.e., they are perfect homonyms).

• "Flier" is a person or thing that flies. Historically, "flier" was used in American English to mean a leaflet, but nowadays Americans use "flyer" for a leaflet. For example:
• I am a frequent flier due to my work.
• My father and mother were both pilots, and my sister and I own a glider. We are a family of fliers.
• "Flyer" is the preferred spelling in British English, and now also American English, to mean leaflet. For example:
• I saw a flyer for your gig on Saturday.
• Pin these flyers to the notice board.

More about "Flier" and "Flyer"

As they sound identical, the words "flier" and "flyer" are homonyms (specifically, homophones). In the past, "flier" and "flyer" were used interchangeably to mean someone or something that flies, but a distinction between these two words has emerged over the last century.

Flier

The noun "flier" describes something or someone that flies. In the United States, "flier" is still occasionally used to denote a leaflet.

Example sentences with "flier":

• I'm not a nervous flier. I realize it's still the safest form of travel. (Actress Cheryl Ladd)
• I've always been a good flier. I love the whole experience. (Actress Erika Christensen)

Flyer

The word "flyer" is a noun meaning leaflet, pamphlet, or handbill.

Example sentences with "flyer":

• When someone hands you a flyer, it's like they're saying: "Here you throw this away." (Comedian Mitch Hedberg)
• The flyer has plenty of information about the upcoming concert.

Remembering "Flier" and "Flyer"

• A flier is something that flies.
• A flyer can be used to swat a fly.