What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swords
Example
The knight drew his sword and charged into battle. [sword: noun]
Example
She trained for years to master the art of sword fighting. [sword fighting: noun]
cutlass
Example
The pirate brandished his cutlass and boarded the enemy ship. [cutlass: noun]
Example
The machete is a type of cutlass used for clearing paths through dense forests. [cutlass: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swords are more commonly used than cutlasses in everyday language. Swords have a wider range of applications, from ceremonial to practical, while cutlasses are primarily associated with pirate lore and naval combat.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between swords and cutlass?
While swords can be used in both formal and informal contexts, they are often associated with a more formal tone due to their historical and cultural significance. Cutlasses, on the other hand, are typically associated with a more informal tone due to their association with pirates and swashbuckling adventures.
