What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
carve
Example
He carved a beautiful sculpture out of a block of wood. [carved: past tense]
Example
The chef skillfully carved the turkey for Thanksgiving dinner. [carved: verb]
engrave
Example
The jeweler engraved my initials on the back of the necklace. [engraved: past tense]
Example
The artist used a laser to engrave a beautiful pattern on the glass vase. [engrave: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carve is more commonly used than engrave in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications and can be used in various contexts. Engrave is more specific and often associated with specialized crafts or industries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between carve and engrave?
While carve is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, engrave is more commonly used in formal settings due to its association with craftsmanship and precision.
