machete

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "machete" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a large knife typically used for cutting vegetation or as a tool in various contexts, including survival or agriculture. Example: "He swung the machete through the thick underbrush, clearing a path for the group."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Police have said that there is a "genuine risk" that innocent people could get hurt after a series of gun, grenade and machete attacks by two feuding criminal factions in Salford, Greater Manchester.

The Guardian

"They have transformed this election from the margin of violence to the margin of error – from the baton stick and machete to the desktop," said MDC secretary general Tendai Biti.

The Guardian

One night while he was slashing through maize with a machete somewhere in the east of England, Lynas saw flashing lights and heard the barking of dogs.

The Guardian

During their communications, Besim allegedly indicated he had access to a machete.

The Guardian

The Australian then pulls out a massive machete to make his point informing the muggers: "Now this is a knife", and the-would be robbers flee in terror.

The Guardian

Ryan Welch was shot in the face by a.40-calibre Smith & Wesson pistol found in a closet in the master bathroom of his home next to a BB gun and a machete, the Chronicle reported.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Instead of bulldozers, many companies nowadays employ machete-wielding labourers to hand-cut pathways for seismic surveys.

The Economist

Since the fighting erupted in 1998, as many as 2.5m people may have died according to some aid groups: some of bullets or machete-blows, most of hunger or disease.

The Economist

This is why many deep-living species, such as Gonostoma bathyphilum, a 10cm-long machete-shaped fish, are completely black.

The Economist

San Salvador Atenco, a nearby town, became a spontaneous campus for machete-wielding protesters, anarchists, Zapatists and other rebels in search of a cause.

The Economist

DESPITE the violent invasion of their fields by machete-wielding supporters of Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe's tobacco farmers raised a bigger-than-expected crop this year.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene involving clearing vegetation, use "machete" to provide a vivid and specific image. For instance, 'He cleared a path through the jungle with his machete' offers more clarity than 'He used a tool to clear the path'.

Common error

Avoid using "machete" interchangeably with other knife types. A "machete" is specifically designed for cutting thick vegetation and has a distinct blade shape and size. Using "knife" as a substitute might lack the descriptive power needed in certain contexts.

Linguistic Context

The word "machete" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a specific type of large, heavy knife designed for cutting vegetation. It can also function as a verb, meaning to cut with such a knife, as Ludwig shows.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Independent

3%

Encyclopedia Britannica

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "machete" is a commonly used noun that refers to a large, heavy knife used for cutting vegetation, and can also function as a verb describing the act of cutting with such a knife. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. Its usage spans various contexts, from agriculture to conflict, and is particularly prevalent in news and media as well as encyclopedic sources. The term is generally considered neutral in register and offers vivid imagery when describing scenes involving cutting or clearing vegetation. While synonyms exist, such as "cutlass" or "bolo knife", "machete" provides a specific and recognizable image. It's best practice to use "machete" when precision is needed, while avoiding its interchangeable use with generic terms like "knife" if lacking the needed descriptive detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bolo knife

Denotes a specific type of large knife used in the Philippines, closely related to a "machete".

bush knife

Indicates a robust knife designed for clearing vegetation, similar in purpose to a "machete".

cane knife

A knife specifically designed for cutting sugar cane, often similar in design and function to a "machete".

large knife

Refers to a cutting tool with a substantial blade, similar to a "machete" but more general.

clearing blade

Focuses on the function of a "machete" in clearing vegetation or obstacles.

cutlass

Specifies a curved, single-edged sword, historically used by sailors; resembles a "machete" in function.

hacking blade

Emphasizes the action of hacking or roughly cutting, which a "machete" is often used for.

chopping tool

A general term for any implement used for chopping, where a "machete" is a specific example.

swing blade

Highlights the swinging motion typically used when wielding a "machete".

long knife

A broader term describing a knife with a long blade, encompassing "machete" as a type.

FAQs

How is a "machete" typically used?

A "machete" is generally used for cutting through dense vegetation, such as clearing paths in jungles or harvesting crops like sugarcane. It's a versatile tool that can be employed for various cutting and chopping tasks.

What's the difference between a "machete" and a knife?

While both are cutting tools, a "machete" is larger and heavier than most knives, designed for chopping and clearing vegetation. A knife typically serves more delicate cutting purposes. You could use a "large knife", but the size and the design are different.

What are some synonyms for "machete"?

Synonyms include "cutlass", "bolo knife", "bush knife" or "cane knife", though these may refer to slightly different variations of the tool or specific regional names.

Is it appropriate to use the word "machete" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate as long as the context warrants it. If you're describing a specific tool used in agriculture or a jungle setting, "machete" is a precise and acceptable term. However, if the tool is used as a weapon it may imply aggression.