pliers: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “pliers” mean?
A hand tool with a pair of crossed, pivoted jaws, used for gripping, bending, or cutting wire.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A hand tool with a pair of crossed, pivoted jaws, used for gripping, bending, or cutting wire.
Any grasping tool with a similar scissor-like mechanism. Used metaphorically to describe the act of holding something firmly.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or use. The pronunciation differs slightly in stress and vowel quality. The term is equally common in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral tool term in both varieties. Associated with DIY, mechanical work, and craftsmanship.
Frequency
Equal frequency in both BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “pliers” in a Sentence
Use pliers to + V (Use pliers to bend the wire.)Grip/hold X with pliers.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “pliers” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He pliered the metal strip into shape.
American English
- She pliered the stubborn nail out of the board.
adjective
British English
- The pliers grip was not strong enough.
American English
- He made a pliers-like motion with his fingers.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in procurement or inventory contexts for hardware stores.
Academic
Used in engineering, physics, or vocational education texts describing tools.
Everyday
Common in DIY, household repair, and craft contexts. 'I need a pair of pliers to fix this.'
Technical
Precise term in mechanics, electronics, jewellery making, and surgery (specific types like haemostatic forceps).
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “pliers”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “pliers”
- Using the singular 'a plier' (incorrect). Correct: 'a pair of pliers' or just 'pliers'.
- Confusing 'pliers' (for gripping/bending) with 'wire cutters' (specifically for cutting).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a plural noun, even when referring to one tool. We say 'These pliers are...' or 'a pair of pliers'.
Pliers typically have a pivot point near the middle of the jaws. Pincers often have the pivot at one end, applying more force at the tips, and are often used for pulling nails.
Informally, yes, meaning to use pliers on something. It is not a standard verb but is understood in context (e.g., 'He pliered the wire').
These are pliers that combine several functions, such as gripping flat and round objects, and often have a cutting edge. They are a common all-purpose tool.
A hand tool with a pair of crossed, pivoted jaws, used for gripping, bending, or cutting wire.
Pliers is usually informal, technical in register.
Pliers: in British English it is pronounced /ˈplaɪəz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈplaɪɚz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Like a pair of pliers (tight-fisted, gripping tightly)”
- “In the pliers of (trapped by)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'PLIers' have jaws that PLI-ably bend to grip things.
Conceptual Metaphor
A TOOL IS A HAND (it extends the hand's gripping ability).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'pliers' correctly?