Thesaurus

tool

Q: How is the word 'tool' different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of tool are appliance , implement , instrument , and utensil . While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," tool suggests an implement adapted to facilitate a definite kind or stage of work and suggests the need of skill more strongly than implement . // a carpenter's tools

Q: When is it sensible to use 'appliance' instead of 'tool'?

While the synonyms appliance and tool are close in meaning, appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment. // household appliances

Q: In what contexts can 'implement' take the place of 'tool'?

In some situations, the words implement and tool are roughly equivalent. However, implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task. // crude stone implements // farm implements

Q: When is 'instrument' a more appropriate choice than 'tool'?

While in some cases nearly identical to tool , instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work. // the dentist's instruments

Q: When could 'utensil' be used to replace 'tool'?

The words utensil and tool can be used in similar contexts, but utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity. // kitchen utensils

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of tool

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 an article intended for use in work

needed a special tool to open the case of the appliance

Synonyms for tool

Words Related to tool

2 one that is or can be used to further the purposes of another

a ruthless leader using his trusting followers as tools in his quest for power

Synonyms for tool

Words Related to tool

minion,
stooge

lap dog,
yes-man

3 one who is easily deceived or cheated

you're just a pathetic tool of the advertising industry if you believe everything you see in TV commercials

Synonyms for tool

chump,
dupe,
gull,
mug
[chiefly British],
patsy,
pigeon,
pushover,
sap,
soft touch,
sucker

Words Related to tool

schlemiel
(also shlemiel)

loser

blockhead,
dolt,
dope,
dumbbell,
dummy,
dunce,
idiot,
imbecile,
moron,
schlub
(also shlub)
[slang],
schlump
[slang],
schnook
[slang]

Near Antonyms for tool

tool

verb

Synonyms of tool (Entry 2 of 2)

to travel by a motorized vehicle

I spent some time tooling around town today

Synonyms for tool

Words Related to tool

roll,
wheel

joyride

ride

drag,
race

Frequently Asked Questions About tool

How is the word tool different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of tool are appliance, implement, instrument, and utensil. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," tool suggests an implement adapted to facilitate a definite kind or stage of work and suggests the need of skill more strongly than implement.

a carpenter's tools

When is it sensible to use appliance instead of tool?

While the synonyms appliance and tool are close in meaning, appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

In what contexts can implement take the place of tool?

In some situations, the words implement and tool are roughly equivalent. However, implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements

farm implements

When is instrument a more appropriate choice than tool?

While in some cases nearly identical to tool, instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

When could utensil be used to replace tool?

The words utensil and tool can be used in similar contexts, but utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.

kitchen utensils

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