tools

Meanings

1. 1nounplural

   Objects you hold and use with your hands to do practical work, such as fixing, building, or repairing things.

   Grammar: Always plural here; for one item say 'a tool'.

   Patterns

   • a set of tools
   • use tools to do something
   • tools for something

   He keeps his tools in a metal box in the garage.

   You will need a few basic tools to put this shelf together.

   The mechanic laid out her tools before starting the job.

2. 2nounplural

   Things such as software or methods that help you do a particular job or task more easily.

   Grammar: Used for abstract aids too, not only physical objects; singular is 'a tool'.

   Patterns

   • tools for doing something
   • digital tools
   • a tool for something

   Online dictionaries are useful tools for language learners.

   The company gave staff new tools to manage their schedules.

   Surveys are one of the simplest tools for gathering feedback.

3. 3nounpluralfigurative

   The equipment or skills a person has for a particular purpose, often in the phrase 'the tools of the trade'.

   Grammar: Usually appears in fixed phrases; it is not used for a single item.

   Patterns

   • the tools of the trade
   • have the tools to do something

   A good camera and patience are the tools of the trade for a wildlife photographer.

   With the right tools, she felt ready to lead the project.

4. 4verbtransitiveinformal

   Third-person singular of 'tool': to shape or work on something using a tool, or to drive around casually.

   Grammar: As a verb it takes an object or, informally, means to drive; the base form is 'tool'.

   Patterns

   • tools something
   • tools around

   He tools the leather carefully before stitching it.

   They spent the afternoon tooling around the countryside.

Word forms

Common combinations

a set of tools

She bought a set of tools for her new apartment.

power tools

Power tools make the work much faster.

the tools of the trade

For a chef, sharp knives are the tools of the trade.

use tools

You have to learn to use tools safely.

digital tools

Teachers now rely on digital tools in class.

Synonyms and how they differ

equipment

Broader and usually uncountable; it covers machines and gear, while 'tools' are the hand-held items you work with directly.

instruments

Better for precise or scientific items like medical or musical instruments, not for hammers and wrenches.

implements

More formal and often agricultural; 'tools' is the everyday word for what you hold and use.

Word family

tool noun

One single item used for practical work.

toolbox noun

A box for keeping and carrying tools.

toolkit noun

A set of tools, or a set of useful methods or software.

toolmaker noun

A person who makes tools, especially for machines.

Commonly confused: tools or towels?

Practice

Make it your own

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

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