What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
picks
Example
The miner used a pick to break up the rock. [pick: noun]
Example
I need to pick out the rocks from the soil before planting. [pick: verb]
mattock
Example
The farmer used a mattock to dig a trench for irrigation. [mattock: noun]
Example
I'm going to mattock the soil to prepare it for planting. [mattock: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Picks are more commonly used than mattocks in everyday language, especially in the context of mining and construction. Mattocks are less common and are typically associated with gardening and landscaping tasks.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between picks and mattock?
Both picks and mattocks are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
