power tool: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2neutral
Quick answer
What does “power tool” mean?
A tool powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine, as opposed to manual operation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A tool powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine, as opposed to manual operation.
A device or person that greatly increases efficiency or capability in a specific domain. In business or tech, can metaphorically describe a highly effective method, software, or individual.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. Pronunciation of 'power' may vary (/paʊə/ vs /ˈpaʊ.ɚ/).
Connotations
Identical.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “power tool” in a Sentence
NOUN (used as a noun phrase)ADJ + power toolVERB + power tool (use, operate, buy)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “power tool” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not applicable as a verb.
American English
- Not applicable as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
American English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- He works in the power-tool industry.
- It's a power-tool accessory.
American English
- He works in the power tool industry.
- It's a power tool accessory.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Metaphor for a highly efficient process or asset. 'This algorithm is a power tool for market prediction.'
Academic
Rare, except in engineering or design contexts discussing specific equipment.
Everyday
Refers to common household or workshop tools like drills, sanders, lawnmowers.
Technical
Precise term in engineering, construction, and manufacturing for tools with a non-human power source.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “power tool”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “power tool”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “power tool”
- Using 'power tool' to refer to very large industrial machines (e.g., a crane). It typically implies portability and hand-use.
- Confusing 'power tool' with 'powerful tool' (the latter is more abstract/metaphorical).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not usually. 'Power tool' strongly collocates with construction, workshop, craft, and garden activities. Kitchen appliances are a separate category.
No, 'power tool' is exclusively a noun or compound adjective. You cannot 'power tool' something.
All cordless tools are electric (battery-powered). 'Electric' can mean either corded (plug-in) or cordless. 'Cordless' specifies battery operation for portability.
It's informal and somewhat jargon-y, common in tech, business, and gaming communities. Avoid it in formal academic writing.
A tool powered by an electric motor or internal combustion engine, as opposed to manual operation.
Power tool: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpaʊə ˌtuːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpaʊ.ɚ ˌtuːl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"The new software is a real power tool for data analysis." (metaphorical)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'POWER gives the tool its ability; you supply the direction.' A power tool amplifies your effort.
Conceptual Metaphor
EFFICIENCY IS AMPLIFIED FORCE; A USEFUL RESOURCE IS A TOOL.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT typically classified as a 'power tool'?