Basic Details
Word: Hew
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To cut or shape something, usually wood, using a tool like an axe or a knife.
Synonyms: Chop, carve, slice
Antonyms: Construct, build, assemble
Idioms and Phrases
- Hew to the line: To follow rules or standards strictly. Example: "In his work, he always strives to hew to the line of excellence."
- Hew and draw: To make a choice between two things or to go through a process of careful selection. Example: "She had to hew and draw between two job offers before making her decision."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The carpenter decided to hew the logs carefully to create beautiful furniture.
Example 2: In ancient times, people hewed stones to build their homes and shelters.
Example 3: With every swing of the axe, he hewed the firewood for the coming winter.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "hew" comes from Old English "hawan," which means "to cut, chop, or strike"? It has been used for many centuries to describe the action of cutting materials like wood or stone.
Famous Quote
"If you want to change the world, you must be hewing and adjusting it like a sculptor with a block of marble." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "hew" mean?
a) To paint something
b) To cut or shape something
c) To build something
d) To count objects
Answer: b) To cut or shape something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "hew"?
a) Dance
b) Chop
c) Sing
d) Build
Answer: b) Chop
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "hew"?
a) Slice
b) Assemble
c) Carve
d) Cut
Answer: b) Assemble
4. Which sentence uses "hew" correctly?
a) She decided to hew the cake for the party.
b) He hewed the wood to make a table.
c) The cat hewed on the rug.
d) They hewed the flowers in the garden.
Answer: b) He hewed the wood to make a table.
5. Which idiom refers to following rules strictly?
a) Hew to the line
b) Draw the line
c) Take a bow
d) Cut to the chase
Answer: a) Hew to the line
