What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hew
Example
The lumberjack hewed the tree trunk into smaller pieces. [hewed: past tense]
Example
The sculptor hewed the stone block into a beautiful statue. [hewed: past participle]
Example
He hewed to his principles even in the face of opposition. [hewed: verb]
hack
Example
The thief hacked at the door with a crowbar. [hacked: past tense]
Example
The company's website was hacked by cybercriminals. [hacked: past participle]
Example
The new employee was a hack who couldn't do anything right. [hack: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hack is more commonly used than hew in everyday language, especially in the context of computer security or criticism of a person's work. Hew is less common and is typically associated with woodworking or construction.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hew and hack?
While hew is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, hack is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
