Ax vs Axe
What’s the difference between them?
Ax
Meaning:
Ax is a noun that refers to a tool used to chop wood, consisting of a heavy metal blade mounted on a handle.
Examples:
1. My father sharpens his ax every time he chops wood.
2. The lumberjack cut down the tree with a single swing of his ax.
3. The ax glinted in the sunlight as it sailed through the air.
Axe
Meaning:
British spelling of 'ax.'
Examples:
1. He used an axe to chop down the dead tree in the backyard.
2. She was afraid of the man wielding an axe on the dark street.
3. He kept an axe by the fireplace in case of an emergency.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Ax
1. Hatchet
2. Cleave
3. Cut down
4. Dismember
5. Chop up
There are no direct antonyms for this word.
Axe
1. Hatchet
2. Cleave
3. Cut down
4. Dismember
5. Chop up
There are no direct antonyms for this word.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Ax", "Axe".
1. Both words are used in American English.
2. Axe is more commonly used in British English.
3. Ax is a shortened form of Axe, much like 'phone' is a shortened form of 'telephone'.
4. Remember that in American English words are usually simplified and have less letters.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should the word 'ax' be used?
The word 'ax' is a noun that means a tool used for chopping, splitting, or cutting wood. It is typically used in contexts that involve lumber work, such as carpentry or construction.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'axe'?
The word 'axe' is usually a verb that means to cut something down with an ax or to reduce an amount or number drastically. It is commonly used in British English.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, both words are pronounced the same (‘aks’).
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
People often confuse the two words and use 'axe' in American English and vice versa.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1.He went to the shed to fetch an ____ to chop some firewood.
2. In American English, you might often hear the word ____ instead of the British variant.
3. The lumberjack carried his ____ over his shoulder as he walked through the forest.
4. In British English, they spell it as ____ while in America its a bit shorter.
5. He sharpened the blade of his ____ before starting to cut the tree.
6. The illustration showed a Viking holding a large ____ ready for battle.
1. Answer: axe or ax
Explanation: Theres no specific clue in this sentence pointing to either British or American English, so both spellings are acceptable.
2. Answer: ax
Explanation: The sentence specifically points out American English, indicating the American spelling ax.
3. Answer: axe or ax
Explanation: This sentence doesnt provide a specific clue about American or British English, so either spelling is acceptable.
4. Answer: axe
Explanation: The sentence contrasts British and American spelling, with the British spelling being highlighted in this case, so axe is the correct answer.
5. Answer: axe or ax
Explanation: Without a specific regional clue, both spellings are acceptable in this sentence.
6. Answer: axe or ax
Explanation: Without a specific regional clue, both spellings are acceptable in this sentence.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.