What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jawbone
Example
The dentist examined my jawbone to check for any issues. [jawbone: noun]
Example
The indigenous tribe used the jawbone of a deer to make a tool for hunting. [jawbone: noun]
Example
He loves to jawbone about his accomplishments, but he rarely follows through on his promises. [jawbone: verb]
jaw
Example
I have a sore spot on my jaw from clenching my teeth at night. [jaw: noun]
Example
She chewed on her food slowly, moving her jaw up and down. [jaw: noun]
Example
The two politicians were jawing back and forth during the debate. [jawing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jaw is more commonly used than jawbone in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jawbone and jaw?
Jaw is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while jawbone is less common and may be more formal or technical in usage.