Definitions
- Describing the process of making a dull object sharp. - Referring to the act of improving or enhancing a skill or ability. - Talking about the process of refining or perfecting an idea or concept.
- Describing the act of sharpening a blade or tool. - Referring to the process of stimulating or arousing interest or appetite. - Talking about the act of preparing or getting ready for something.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words involve the idea of improving or enhancing something.
- 2Both words can be used in a figurative sense.
- 3Both words are related to the idea of preparation.
- 4Both words can be used as verbs.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Sharpen is more commonly used than whet.
- 2Object: Sharpen is used for objects that are dull and need to be made sharp, while whet is used for objects that are already sharp but need to be made sharper.
- 3Intensity: Whet implies a lesser degree of sharpening or stimulation than sharpen.
- 4Context: Sharpen is used more often in the context of skills or ideas, while whet is used more often in the context of appetite or interest.
Remember this!
While sharpen and whet are both synonyms that refer to the idea of improving or enhancing something, they have some differences. Sharpen is used more often and refers to making a dull object sharp, improving a skill or idea, or refining a concept. On the other hand, whet refers to stimulating or arousing interest or appetite, preparing or getting ready for something, or making an already sharp object sharper.
