axe

USAGE SUMMARY

'axe' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun (a tool for chopping wood) or a verb (to cut down or get rid of something). For example: "The lumberjack used his axe to chop the tree down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Police are still investigating threats to kill Hall, reportedly linked to his decision to axe Clarkson.

The Guardian

Just like the Tory plans to axe housing benefit for young people," he said.

The Guardian

Purnell said the BBC had been forced to cut back on the range of services it offers following the 2010 funding settlement, which froze the licence fee at £145.50 until 2017, including axing original daytime programmes on BBC2, and the decision, yet to be formally submitted to the BBC Trust, to axe the BBC3 TV channel.

The Guardian

Women in the UK are fighting to axe the 5% tax on tampons (it used to be taxed at 17.5%!), which are considered "luxuries" while men's razors, for some baffling reason, are not.

The Guardian - Opinion

The decision to axe regional ABC facilities is a political one used to inflict pain on Coalition electorates, a government MP has told Guardian Australia.

The Guardian

Normality returned with the arrival of Lord Mandelson, a man more used to half-truths than full ones, yet always first in line with the executioner's axe.

The Guardian

The one side-effect of Annuale was a raging, psychopathic bout of PMS – think Fey swinging an axe, Casey Wilson diving face-first into a birthday cake, Poehler repeatedly kicking a guy in the nuts or Kristen Wiig making out with a dog.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In contrast, Wrecking Ball moves straight from the close-up of Cyrus to scenes of her gyrating in a crop top and knickers, fellating an axe and writhing naked on a ball.

The Guardian - Opinion

Last week's Australian federal budget took an axe to the ABC-run Australia network and its ability to properly cover the Asia-Pacific.

The Guardian - Opinion

Owen Bowcott The environment department has already suffered some of the steepest cuts across Whitehall, with a 30% cut in 2010 against the government average of 19%, followed by a further 10% in 2013, leaving observers wondering what's left to axe.

The Guardian

Killed them all, of course' No. "Slam dunk" was the term used by prosecutors in Galveston, Texas, who couldn't get a murder conviction for the 2001 killing of Durst's roommate Morris Black even though Durst admitted firing the fatal shot and dismembering the corpse with an axe and a bow saw.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "axe" to mean to chop something, use "axe" as a tool instead of a phrase like "use a axe", it will improve readability and sound more natural.

Common error

Avoid using "axe" in highly formal documents or academic papers. Opt for more neutral or precise terms such as "reduce", "eliminate", or "terminate" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The word "axe" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a tool for chopping, or as a verb, meaning to cut or eliminate. Ludwig confirms its usability in both forms. Examples from Ludwig show its use in contexts ranging from physical actions to figurative eliminations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "axe" is a versatile term that functions as both a noun and a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, showing its presence in various contexts, especially in news and media. As a noun, it refers to a tool, while as a verb, it signifies cutting or eliminating something, often with force. While widely used, it's important to consider the formality of the context, opting for more neutral terms like "terminate" or "eliminate" in highly formal settings. The term's high frequency and varied applications make it a useful addition to one's vocabulary, provided it's used judiciously. The examples show it's commonly used in journalism and media to describe budget cuts or project terminations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

terminate

Focuses on the action of ending something, particularly employment or projects.

eliminate

Highlights the removal of something, often implying a strategic decision.

cut back

Emphasizes reducing the amount or extent of something, usually resources or expenses.

lay off

Specifically refers to the termination of employment, typically due to economic reasons.

get rid of

A more general term for removing or discarding something, suitable for informal contexts.

slash

Implies a sudden and significant reduction, often in budgets or prices.

downsize

Specifically relates to reducing the size of a company or organization, often through layoffs.

dismiss

Formally terminate someone's employment.

cancel

To decide that an arranged event will not take place.

repeal

Describes the official revocation of a law or act.

FAQs

How can I use "axe" in a sentence?

As a verb, "axe" means to cut or eliminate something. For example, "The company decided to "axe the project"." As a noun, it refers to a tool for chopping wood. For example, "He used an "axe" to split the logs."

What are some alternatives to the verb "axe"?

Depending on the context, you can use "terminate", "eliminate", "cut back", or "lay off" as alternatives to "axe". For example, "The government plans to "cut back" public spending."

Is it appropriate to use "axe" in a formal setting?

While "axe" is widely understood, it can sound informal or abrupt. In formal settings, consider using more neutral terms like "reduce", "eliminate", or "terminate" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "axe" and "ax"?

"Ax" is a less common, simplified spelling of "axe". Both refer to the same tool. While "axe" is more widely accepted, both are usable. Always double check your employer's guide style.