Is engrave the same as carve?

Not exactly. Carve is broader, while engrave usually means making fine, lasting marks, often on a hard surface.

Can engrave be used in writing about feelings?

Yes. It can mean something is strongly fixed in your mind or heart.

Is engrave formal or everyday English?

It is a normal word in both everyday and formal English. It is common in writing about gifts, jewellery, and memorials.

← Dictionary

engrave

/ɪnˈɡreɪv/

IELTSAcademic

verb

1.
To cut or carve words, letters, or a design into a hard surface. People often engrave metal, stone, or glass.
- They engraved their names on the ring.
- The plaque was engraved with her award.
2.
To make a strong, lasting mark in memory or feeling.
- That moment was engraved in my memory.
- Her words were engraved on his heart.

Adinary Nuance

Engrave is more specific than cut or carve. It usually means making a neat, often detailed mark on a hard surface, especially with words or decoration. Writers may choose engrave when the mark is permanent and careful, not rough or casual. It can also be used figuratively for memories or feelings that stay deeply fixed.

In other languages

Vietnamese: khắc
Spanish: grabar
Chinese: 雕刻
Japanese: 彫る
Korean: 새기다

Etymology

Engrave comes from Old French engraver, based on graver, meaning 'to carve'. It entered English in the late Middle Ages.

Common phrases

engrave a nameengrave on metalengrave in memorydeeply engraved

Synonyms

carve etch inscribe cut

Related words

engraving etching inscription chisel

Frequently asked questions

Is engrave the same as carve?: Not exactly. Carve is broader, while engrave usually means making fine, lasting marks, often on a hard surface.
Can engrave be used in writing about feelings?: Yes. It can mean something is strongly fixed in your mind or heart.
Is engrave formal or everyday English?: It is a normal word in both everyday and formal English. It is common in writing about gifts, jewellery, and memorials.