What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nicks
Example
I accidentally nicked my finger while chopping vegetables. [nicked: past tense verb]
Example
There's a small nick on the edge of this table. [nick: noun]
cuts
Example
She needed stitches for the deep cut on her hand. [cut: noun]
Example
He carefully cut the cake into equal slices. [cut: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cuts is more commonly used than nicks in everyday language, as it has a wider range of meanings and applications. Nicks are less common and are usually used in specific contexts, such as woodworking or shaving.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between nicks and cuts?
Both nicks and cuts are generally informal in tone, although cuts can be used in more formal contexts when referring to reductions in budgets or expenses.