tool
tool
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "tool" is:
tʊl
Here's a breakdown of the sounds in each syllable:
tʊ - This syllable consists of two sounds:
t - a voiceless alveolar plosive
ʊ - a near-close near-back rounded vowel
Word Form Variations
The word "tool" has only two word form variations:
Singular: tool
Plural: tools
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Definitions, Synonyms, Antonyms
Tool (Noun)
Definition: An instrument or implement, especially one held in the hand, used to carry out a particular task.
Synonyms: implement, utensil, device, gadget, apparatus
Antonyms: hindrance, obstacle, impediment
Tool (Verb) [Informal]
Definition: To use someone or something to achieve a goal, often in a manipulative or exploitative way.
Synonyms: exploit, manipulate, utilize, employ
Antonyms: neglect, ignore, disregard
Examples of Use
Noun:
Physical tool: "The carpenter used a hammer and saw as his primary tools."
Digital tool: "AI is a powerful tool for problem-solving."
Metaphorical tool: "Humor can be a useful tool for defusing tension."
Verb:
Informal usage: "He was just being used as a tool by his boss." (Common in everyday conversation)
Literary usage: "The villain tooled around the city in his sleek sports car." (From a crime fiction novel)
Specific examples:
Newspapers: "The government used tax cuts as a tool to stimulate the economy." (The New York Times)
Online publications: "Social media can be a powerful tool for social change." (The Verge)
Books: "The detective used his keen observation skills as a tool to solve the case." (A Sherlock Holmes novel)
Movies: "The hacker used a sophisticated tool to break into the system." (A cybercrime thriller)
TV shows: "The chef used a variety of tools to prepare the gourmet meal." (A cooking show)
General public discourse: "A smartphone is an essential tool in today's world." (A casual conversation)
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10 Famous Quotes Using the term Tool
“A fool with a tool is still a fool." – Grady Booch
"Education is the most powerful tool which you can use to change the world." – Nelson Mandela
"Technology is nothing. What’s important is that you have faith in people, that they’re basically good and smart, and if you give them tools, they’ll do wonderful things with them." – Steve Jobs
"Words are, of course, the most powerful tool used by mankind." – Rudyard Kipling
"Patience is a tool that helps us survive difficult times." – Anonymous
"The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled. Knowledge is merely a tool to help light that fire." – Plutarch
"Social media is an amazing tool, but it's really the face-to-face interaction that makes a long-term impact." – Felicia Day
"Diversity is a tool for innovation, not a box to check." – Anonymous
"Self-discipline is a tool that turns dreams into reality." – Anonymous
"Art is not a luxury; it is a tool for survival." – Theresa Duncan
Etymology
The word "tool" has a long history. It comes from the Old English word "tōl," which meant something like "that with which one prepares something." This word, in turn, likely comes from an even older Germanic language.
The earliest known use of "tool" in English was around the 11th century. Back then, it referred to any instrument or implement used to do a job. This meaning is still the most common one today.
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Phrases + Idioms Containing the term Tool
Common Phrases:
Tool of the trade: This refers to the essential equipment or skill needed for a particular job.
Tool kit: A collection of tools, both physical and metaphorical, used to achieve a goal.
Less Common Phrases:
Sharp tool: A clever or intelligent person.
Blunt tool: A clumsy or insensitive person.
To tool up: To equip oneself with the necessary tools for a task.
Original Phrases:
A tool for thought: A device or method that aids in thinking or problem-solving.
A tool for change: Something that can be used to bring about positive change.
Idioms with Similar Meaning:
A means to an end: Something used to achieve a goal.
A weapon in one's arsenal: A resource or skill that can be used to advantage.
Remember, the word "tool" is often used metaphorically to refer to people or things that are used to achieve a particular purpose, often in a manipulative or exploitative way. This usage can lead to negative connotations, so it's important to use the word carefully.
Posts Related to Tool
Source Information
Definition of tool from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
