What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crank
Example
He used the crank to start the engine. [crank: noun]
Example
She's such a crank, always complaining about something. [crank: noun]
Example
He suddenly went on a crank and started yelling at everyone. [crank: noun]
lever
Example
Use the lever to lift the heavy box. [lever: noun]
Example
She pulled the lever to stop the train. [lever: noun]
Example
He's a powerful lever in the political world. [lever: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lever is more commonly used than crank in everyday language. Lever is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while crank is less common and often associated with informal or slang usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crank and lever?
While crank is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, lever is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.