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
The dog loves to chew on bones to keep its teeth clean. [chew: verb]
gnaw
Example
The mouse likes to gnaw on wood to sharpen its teeth. [gnaw: verb]
Example
The puppy would gnaw on its toy for hours. [gnaw: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chew is a more common word and is widely used in everyday language, especially when talking about eating and food. On the other hand, gnaw is less common and is often used in specific contexts, such as describing the actions of animals or the process of wearing down objects.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between chew and gnaw?
Both chew and gnaw are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversations. However, chew is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while gnaw is more commonly used in informal or specialized settings.
