to chop or cut something with an axe, pick, or other tool, to shape something by cutting or chopping away at it, to conform or adhere to something, such as a principle or standard

hew to the line, hew to tradition, hew out of the rock

Formal and Informal Expressions of hew

In different contexts, you can replace 'hew' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'chop, cut, conform' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'hack, whittle, stick to' is a commonplace synonym.

hew: Explore its Definition & Usage

hew Definition

1to chop or cut something with an axe, pick, or other tool
2to shape something by cutting or chopping away at it
3to conform or adhere to something, such as a principle or standard

Using hew: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hew" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He hewed the logs into shape with his axe.
Example
The statue was hewn from a single block of marble.
Example
She hewed to her principles despite criticism from others.
Example
The company hewed to its commitment to sustainability.

hew Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hew

Antonyms for hew

Phrases with hew

hew to the line
to conform strictly to a rule or principle
Example
The team hewed to the line and followed the coach's game plan.
hew to tradition
to adhere to established customs or practices
Example
The family hewed to tradition and celebrated holidays in the same way every year.
hew out of the rock
to create or carve something from a solid piece of stone
Example
The ancient temple was hewn out of the rock by skilled craftsmen.

Origins of hew

from Old English 'hēawan'

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Summary: hew in Brief

'Hew' [hyoo] means to cut or shape something with a tool or to conform to a principle or standard. It can be used in phrases like 'hew to the line' or 'hew to tradition.' Examples include 'He hewed the logs into shape with his axe' and 'The company hewed to its commitment to sustainability.'