What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
machete
Example
The farmer used a machete to clear the overgrown bushes. [machete: noun]
Example
He expertly wielded his machete, slicing through the bamboo with ease. [machete: verb]
hatchet
Example
He used a hatchet to chop firewood for the campfire. [hatchet: noun]
Example
She skillfully wielded her hatchet, carving intricate designs into the wooden figurine. [hatchet: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hatchet is more commonly used than machete in everyday language. Hatchet is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks, while machete is more specialized and typically used in specific contexts such as agriculture, forestry, and survival situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between machete and hatchet?
Both machete and hatchet are associated with a casual and informal tone, but machete may be perceived as more exotic or foreign due to its association with tropical regions and non-Western cultures.
