What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leaf
Example
The tree's leaves rustled in the wind. [leaf: noun]
Example
I found a bookmark on page 50 of the book, between two leaves. [leaves: plural noun]
Example
The cake was covered in a layer of edible gold leaf. [leaf: noun]
blade
Example
The chef sharpened the blade of his knife before slicing the vegetables. [blade: noun]
Example
The helicopter's blades spun rapidly as it took off. [blades: plural noun]
Example
The farmer harvested the wheat using a sharp blade. [blade: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leaf is more commonly used than blade in everyday language, especially in botany and gardening contexts. Blade is more specific and often used in tools and machinery.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leaf and blade?
Both leaf and blade can be used in formal and informal contexts, but leaf is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
