What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scythe
Example
The farmer used a scythe to harvest the wheat. [scythe: noun]
Example
The grim reaper is often depicted holding a scythe. [scythe: noun]
sickle
Example
The peasants used sickles to cut the rice during the harvest season. [sickles: noun]
Example
The hammer and sickle is a well-known symbol of communism. [sickle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sickle is more commonly used than scythe in everyday language, especially in the context of farming and agriculture. Scythe is less common and is often used in literature or artistic representations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scythe and sickle?
Both scythe and sickle are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in academic or technical writing. However, sickle may be more commonly used in everyday conversation and is therefore more versatile in terms of formality.
