Meaning & use
prongs
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“prongs” is a form of “prong”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounplural
The thin pointed parts that stick out from the end of a fork or similar tool.
Grammar: Plural of prong: a fork with four prongs.
Patterns
- the prongs of something
The fork has four sharp prongs.
He bent the prongs of the garden fork by hitting a rock.
Use the prongs of the plug to check the socket fits.
nounpluralfigurative
Separate parts or directions of a plan, attack or argument.
Grammar: Usually appears in a three-pronged approach.
Patterns
- a plan with prongs
The campaign had three prongs: advertising, events and partnerships.
The army advanced on two prongs.
Word forms
| singular | prong |
|---|
Common combinations
- sharp prongs
- The sharp prongs of the fork pierced the meat.
- two-pronged approach
- The city took a two-pronged approach to reduce traffic.
- the prongs of a plug
- The prongs of the plug were bent.
- metal prongs
- Metal prongs held the gemstone in place.
- fork prongs
- Clean between the fork prongs thoroughly.
Synonyms and how they differ
- tines
- Tines is the usual word for the points of a fork or rake, while prongs is slightly broader.
- spikes
- Spikes are usually larger, sharper and stand alone, rather than as part of a set like prongs.
- points
- Points is a general term, while prongs are specifically one of several pointed parts.
- branches
- Branches suits parts of a plan or tree, while prongs suggests a forked shape.
Word family
Commonly confused: prongs or prawns?
prongs vs prawns
Prawns are shellfish, while prongs are pointed parts of a tool. They sound a little alike.
Practice
The campaign used a three-____ strategy to reach voters.
Choose one answer.
Three-pronged means having three parts or directions. The other options are not words that fit this pattern.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “prongs”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.