What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
whittling
Example
He spent his afternoon whittling a small boat out of a piece of wood. [whittling: gerund or present participle]
Example
Whittling is a great way to pass the time while camping. [whittling: noun]
carving
Example
The artist spent months carving a beautiful statue out of marble. [carving: gerund or present participle]
Example
The intricate carvings on the antique chair were breathtaking. [carvings: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carving is a more commonly used term than whittling in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe both professional and artistic pursuits. Whittling is a less common term that is often associated with a more casual and hobbyist tone.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between whittling and carving?
Carving is generally considered a more formal term than whittling, as it is often associated with skilled craftsmanship and artistic expression. However, both terms can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
