TOOL Synonyms: 102 Similar and Opposite Words

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

tool 1 of 2

noun

ˈtül

Definition of tool next

as in device

an article intended for use in work needed a special tool to open the case of the appliance

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in pawn

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 & Similar Words

as in sucker

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 & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

tool

2 of 2

verb

as in to drive

to travel by a motorized vehicle I spent some time tooling around town today

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

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

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of tool

Noun

Sure, there are other precautions that can help protect you from flu viruses—frequently washing your hands and masking up, to name a few—but the flu shot is one tool that should definitely be at the top of your list. —

Korin Miller, SELF, 27 Nov. 2024 The main part of the tool is one long sheet of paper, and the device can magnify up to 140 times. —

Brittney Melton, NPR, 27 Nov. 2024

Verb

The story of the watch and its use is a poignant reminder of why many of us are drawn to watches, specifically tool watches and sports watches, to begin with. —

Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 20 Sep. 2024 As the smoke piled in, Lake Arrowhead resident Doug Roath tooled around town on his bicycle. —

Jack Flemming, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tool

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tool

Noun

Two investment and analysis companies (No. 3 KKR and No. 4 S&P Global) share space with a pharmaceutical company making significant strides in deadly diseases (No. 6 Vertex Pharmaceuticals), a maker of medical devices (No. 9 Boston Scientific) and a builder of homes (No. 12 Taylor Morrison).

Heather Newman, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
The ultrasonic waves emitted by this device essentially help to shake congestion loose, gently pushing blackheads out of pores without the need for firm pressure or painful extractions.

Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2024