Everyday life in English often requires some more specific vocabulary, especially when it comes to tools. Let’s say you need to ask for help fixing a loose cabinet door or putting up a shelf. Maybe you want to tell someone about a DIY project you’re working on. No matter the scenario, knowing tools names in English can make a big difference.
This guide covers the most common hand tools and power tools, explains how to use them, and points out key differences (what’s a flathead vs. a Phillips screwdriver, anyway?).
P.S. We narrowed down this vocabulary list to focus on the most practical tools you’ll use at home. But if you’re interested to dive deeper and learn about heavy-duty construction tools, we’ve got you covered there too. Check out our Language Courses for the Construction Industry to learn more.
What Do We Mean By “Tools”?
At a basic level, tools are devices that help people carry out tasks more efficiently. Humans have been inventing tools for thousands of years to build, repair and create.
Today, tools fall into two broad categories:
- Hand tools — powered by your own strength.
- Power tools — powered by electricity or batteries.
Both types are useful in everyday situations, from building IKEA furniture to hanging artwork. Let’s take a deeper look…
Two Types of Tools in English
1. Hand Tools
Example: screwdriver, wrench or plier
Hand tools are portable and simple tools that don’t require power. They’re ideal for small jobs (think, fixing a loose drawer or hanging a picture) or when electricity isn’t available.
2. Power Tools
Example: power drill, jigsaw or sander.
Power tools require a power source (plug-in electricity or battery). They’re faster and stronger than hand tools, but can sometimes require more care.
The Most Common Hand Tools
Here’s a closer look at some essential hand tools, their variations and typical uses.
Screwdrivers
- Flathead screwdriver — single flat tip, used for slotted screws
- Phillips screwdriver — cross-shaped tip, more common in modern screws
- Torx screwdriver — star-shaped tip, often used in electronics or furniture
Wrenches (or “Spanners” in British English)
- Open-end wrench — U-shaped opening that grips two sides of a nut/bolt
- Box-end wrench — closed loop for better grip
- Adjustable wrench (Crescent wrench) — movable jaw, fits multiple sizes
Pliers
- Slip-joint pliers — general-purpose gripping
- Needle-nose pliers — narrow tips for tight spaces
- Cutting pliers (diagonal cutters) — designed for cutting wires
Hammers
- Claw hammer — classic tool with a flat head and claw for pulling nails
- Ball-peen hammer — rounded end, used in metalwork
- Rubber mallet — softer head, avoids damaging surfaces
Saws
- Hand saw — general woodcutting
- Coping saw — thin blade for detailed cuts
- Hacksaw — for cutting metal or plastic
Measuring & Marking Tools
- Tape measure — retractable ruler for measuring distances
- Level — ensures surfaces are horizontal/vertical
- Square — right-angle tool for marking accurate cuts
Other Essentials
- Allen keys (hex keys) — L-shaped tools for hexagonal screws (you might recognize these from your IKEA instructions)
- Utility knife (box cutter) — retractable blade for cutting
- Chisel — sharp-edged tool for carving or shaping wood
Popular Power Tools
Drills
- Cordless drill/driver — versatile for drilling holes and driving screws
- Hammer drill — adds a pounding action for masonry
Saws
- Circular saw — handheld, for straight cuts in wood/plastic
- Jigsaw — for curved or detailed cuts
- Miter saw — precise angled cuts, often for trim work
Sanders
- Orbital sander — moves in a fast circular motion, good for smoothing surfaces
- Belt sander — removes material quickly, more aggressive
Other Useful Power Tools
- Angle grinder — cutting, grinding, polishing (with proper disc)
- Power screwdriver — compact tool for fast screwdriving
- Heat gun — blows hot air, useful for stripping paint or thawing pipes
Specialized Tools for Different Professions
Even within the category of basic tools, some are associated with particular trades:
- Electricians use insulated screwdrivers and wire strippers.
- Carpenters rely on chisels, planes and specialized saws.
- DIY enthusiasts often keep a drill, level and Allen keys close at hand.
For learners, the key is recognizing the most transferable vocabulary: tools you’ll hear mentioned in everyday tasks, home repairs or even in small talk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between hand tools and power tools?
Hand tools rely on manual effort, while power tools use electricity or batteries for speed and strength.
What are the most common screwdriver names in English?
Flathead, Phillips and Torx are the main types — each fits a different screw head.
Where can I learn more about tools names?
Try labeled diagrams online, hands-on practice and English vocabulary guides from Babbel.
Final Thoughts
Learning tools names in English is about more than building vocabulary; it’s about being able to talk about the tasks of daily life. Whether you’re tightening a loose screw with a Phillips, sanding a surface with an orbital sander, or simply measuring with a tape measure, the right word helps you understand instructions and communicate clearly.