Idioms · 3 entries

Tool

What does "Tool" mean?

A proverb that suggests a poor workman tends to look for an excuse for his poor work.

The expression is found in British collections of proverbs from the 16th century.

14th century Britain.

Entry 1

Meaning A proverb that suggests a poor workman tends to look for an excuse for his poor work.

Usage Worldwide, but less commonly than 50 years ago.

Example

It was really Andy’s fault that the wall he built fell down but he tried to claim that the cement mixer was faulty.

Pronunciation

Entry 2

Meaning The use of excessive resources to overcome a small problem.

Usage Widely used.

Example

Using the air ambulance to get granny to hospital was a sledgehammer to crack a nut. She could walk perfectly well and we only live 200 yards away.

Pronunciation

Entry 3

Meaning Finding it difficult to choose between two alternatives.

Usage Worldwide, but less commonly so that in the past.

Example

I'd like to go to the game and stay in for the birthday party. I'm between two stools.

Pronunciation