Half-mast vs. Half-staff

What are the differences between half-mast and half-staff?

Half-mast and half-staff are terms used to refer to the position of a flag when it is flown at a lower than usual position. Half-mast is usually used to indicate a period of mourning, while half-staff is usually used to indicate a period of respect or sorrow.

For example, the US flag is traditionally flown at half-mast on Memorial Day to honor those who have served in the armed forces. Similarly, the US flag is flown at half-staff in the event of the death of a current or former president, vice president, or other prominent public figure.

Sentences:

The flag at our town hall was flown at half-mast to honor the victims of the recent tragedy.

The US flag was flown at half-staff in memory of former President George H.W. Bush.

Why do people commonly confuse half-mast and half-staff?

People commonly confuse half-mast and half-staff because they are similar in terms of their meaning, both representing a sign of mourning or respect. The two terms are used to describe the same action, which is to lower a flag to half the normal height. The only difference between the two is that half-mast is used to describe the lowering of a flag on a pole, while half-staff is used to describe the lowering of a flag on a staff.

What are some ways to make sure you don't confuse half-mast and half-staff?

Familiarize yourself with the flags of your country and the differences between a half-mast and a half-staff position.
Look up the definitions of each and make a note of the difference between the two.
Pay attention to context clues when reading or writing sentences.
Ask someone else to double-check your work if you are unsure of the correct usage.
rewrite the sentence to make the distinction clearer.
Use alternative phrases such as “raised to half height” for half-mast and “lowered to half height” for half-staff.

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