What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
notch
Example
He used a saw to make a notch in the wood. [notch: noun]
Example
She notched her initials into the tree trunk. [notched: past tense verb]
cut
Example
She cut the cake into slices. [cut: verb]
Example
He received a cut on his hand from the broken glass. [cut: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cut is more commonly used than notch in everyday language. Cut is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while notch is less common and has a more specific meaning related to marking or measuring.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between notch and cut?
While notch is typically associated with a technical or specialized tone, cut is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.