What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hammer
Example
He used a hammer to nail the boards together. [hammer: noun]
Example
The percussionist played the xylophone with a hammer. [hammer: noun]
Example
She hammered the metal until it was flat. [hammered: past tense verb]
gavel
Example
The judge banged the gavel to signal the start of the trial. [gavel: noun]
Example
The president used the gavel to call the meeting to order. [gavel: noun]
Example
After much debate, the chairperson gavelled the meeting to a close. [gavelled: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hammer is a more common word in everyday language, as it has a wider range of practical applications. Gavel is less common and is mostly used in formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hammer and gavel?
Gavel is a more formal word than hammer, as it is mostly used in legal or organizational settings where formality is expected. Hammer is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
