What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cosh
Example
The robber threatened the cashier with a cosh. [cosh: noun]
Example
The police officer hit the suspect with a cosh to subdue him. [cosh: verb]
baton
Example
The conductor waved his baton to signal the start of the performance. [baton: noun]
Example
The police officer used his baton to control the crowd. [baton: noun]
Example
She learned how to use a baton in her self-defense class. [baton: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Baton is more commonly used than cosh in everyday language. Baton has a wider range of functions and is more versatile, while cosh is less common and associated with criminal activity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cosh and baton?
Both cosh and baton are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as law enforcement or self-defense situations.