What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chew
Example
Make sure to chew your food thoroughly before swallowing. [chew: verb]
Example
He was chewing on a piece of gum while waiting for the bus. [chewing: gerund or present participle]
chisel
Example
He used a chisel to carve a beautiful sculpture out of marble. [chisel: verb]
Example
The artist carefully chiseled away at the wood to create intricate patterns. [chiseled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chew is a more common word used in everyday language, especially when talking about eating and food. On the other hand, chisel is less commonly used and is more specific to certain contexts, such as woodworking or sculpting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chew and chisel?
Chew is generally considered informal and casual, as it is commonly used in everyday conversations. Chisel, on the other hand, is more formal and technical, often used in specialized fields or professional settings.
