What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sledgehammer
Example
He swung the sledgehammer with all his might, breaking the concrete slab. [sledgehammer: noun]
Example
The company's new policy was a sledgehammer approach to solving the problem. [sledgehammer: adjective]
maul
Example
He used the maul to split the logs into firewood. [maul: noun]
Example
The sculptor used a maul and chisel to shape the stone into a statue. [maul: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sledgehammer is more commonly used than maul in everyday language. Sledgehammer is a versatile tool that can be used in various contexts, while maul is less common and is typically used in specific contexts related to woodworking or stone carving.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sledgehammer and maul?
Both sledgehammer and maul are associated with manual labor and are typically used in informal contexts. However, sledgehammer may be used in more formal contexts related to construction or engineering, while maul is more commonly used in casual or hobbyist settings.
