What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pocketknife
Example
He always carries a pocketknife with him when he goes camping. [pocketknife: noun]
Example
She used her pocketknife to open the package. [pocketknife: noun]
penknife
Example
He used his penknife to carve the wooden figurine. [penknife: noun]
Example
She sharpened her pencil with her penknife. [penknife: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pocketknife is more commonly used than penknife in American English, while penknife is more commonly used in British English. Both terms are less common in everyday language and are more likely to be used in specific contexts such as outdoor activities or artistic pursuits.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pocketknife and penknife?
Neither pocketknife nor penknife is particularly formal or informal, and both can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
