tool

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   An object, often held in the hand, made for doing a physical job such as cutting, turning, measuring, or fixing.

   Grammar: Countable; used for hammers, saws, spanners, and similar implements, literally or figuratively.

   Patterns

   • use a tool
   • tool for something
   • garden tools

   A screwdriver is the right tool for this job.

   Keep sharp tools away from children.

   She chose the tools carefully before starting.

2. 2nouncountable

   Something, such as software, a method, or information, used to achieve a purpose.

   Grammar: Countable; common with for and abstract nouns like research, learning, analysis.

   Patterns

   • tool for learning
   • analytical tool
   • software tool

   Flashcards are a useful tool for vocabulary.

   The app is a planning tool for small teams.

   We need better tools to measure progress.

3. 3nouncountableinformaldisapproving

   A person used by another person or group to achieve something, often unfairly.

   Grammar: Informal and insulting; suggests being controlled or exploited rather than independently choosing.

   Patterns

   • a tool of someone
   • be used as a tool

   He felt like a tool of the marketing department.

   Do not let yourself be used as a tool in their dispute.

4. 4nouncountableinformalslangdisapproving

   A foolish or easily manipulated person, used as an insult.

   Grammar: Slang insult; learners should recognize it but avoid using it about people.

   Patterns

   • act like a tool

   Calling someone a tool is rude and imprecise.

   In the story, the bully acts like a tool until he apologizes.

Word forms

Common combinations

garden tools

The garden tools are kept in the shed.

right tool for the job

Use the right tool for the job instead of improvising.

software tool

This software tool checks spelling as you write.

tool kit/toolkit

A basic toolkit should include tape, screws, and a screwdriver.

Synonyms and how they differ

implement

A formal word for a tool made for a task, often farming or practical work.

instrument

Often a precise or medical/scientific tool; also used figuratively for means.

device

A made object that does a job, usually more mechanical or electronic than a simple hand tool.

utensil

Usually a kitchen or household tool used in cooking and eating.

Commonly confused: tool or towel? tool or tulle?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “tool”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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