While both "yoke" and "harness" refer to equipment used to control or restrain animals, there's a key difference in what they are and how they're used. A yoke is a wooden or metal frame that fits across the necks or shoulders of two animals, typically oxen or cows, allowing them to pull a load together. A harness, on the other hand, is a more complex arrangement of straps and buckles used to fit an animal, usually a single animal like a horse or donkey, for riding or pulling. Think of a yoke as a simple, connecting device for two, while a harness is a comprehensive system for one.

Let's look at some examples:

• Yoke: "The farmer used a yoke to connect his two oxen to the plow." (Meaning: The farmer used a wooden frame to join his two oxen so they could pull a plow together.)

• Harness: "The rider carefully adjusted the horse's harness before mounting." (Meaning: The rider meticulously fitted the many straps and buckles of the horse's equipment before getting on.)

Here's another example to further highlight the distinction:

• Yoke: "The heavy yoke pressed down on the bull's neck, making it difficult for him to walk." (Meaning: The weight of the wooden frame made it difficult for the bull to move its head and neck.)

• Harness: "The dog's harness allowed the owner to control its movements on the busy street." (Meaning: The system of straps and buckles on the dog enabled the owner to easily guide and manage the animal's actions.)

You can also use the words figuratively. A "yoke of responsibility" refers to a heavy burden shared by two or more people, while being "in harness" means being actively engaged in work or a task.

Happy learning!