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wrench

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹɛntʃ// UK //ɹˈɛntʃ// wrench Archaic

n. a metal tool used for holding and turning things like nuts and bolts. You use it when you need to tighten or loosen parts of a machine.

n. a hand tool designed for gripping and turning objects, such as nuts, bolts, or pipes, by providing mechanical advantage through torque.


SIMPLE

He used a wrench to tighten the loose bolt on the bike.

CONTEXTUAL

The plumber reached into his toolbox for a heavy wrench to loosen the rusted pipe under the sink.

COMPLEX

While a simple wrench suffices for most household repairs, automotive work often requires a calibrated torque wrench to ensure that fasteners are tightened to exact manufacturer specifications.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly refers to the tool in American English; the British English equivalent is typically 'spanner'.

Pitfall

He used a wrench for open the jarHe used a wrench to open the jarWhen describing the purpose of a tool, use 'to' plus the infinitive verb rather than 'for' plus the -ing form.

Idioms6 entries

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