What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gadget
Example
I love using my kitchen gadgets like the garlic press and avocado slicer. [gadgets: plural noun]
Example
The latest gadget on the market is a smartwatch that can track your fitness and monitor your heart rate. [gadget: singular noun]
tool
Example
The carpenter used a variety of tools such as a saw, hammer, and drill to build the bookshelf. [tools: plural noun]
Example
The software program is a useful tool for organizing and managing your finances. [tool: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tool is more commonly used than gadget in everyday language. Tool is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while gadget is less common and often associated with electronic devices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gadget and tool?
While tool can be used in both formal and informal contexts, gadget is often associated with a more casual or informal tone.