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Glite Dictionary
back saw

back saw

6.0
A saw with a stiff top edge used for making small, precise cuts in wood
  • noun
  • /bæk sɔ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : sierra de espalda
  • He used a back saw to carefully trim the molding for a perfect fit.

Examples

  • The carpenter recommended a back saw because of its sturdy reinforced spine.

  • A back saw is ideal for making precise cuts in woodworking projects.

  • He picked up the back saw to finish the project.

  • The carpenter uses a back saw for detailed cuts.

  • A back saw is ideal for making precise cuts in woodworking projects.

  • He used a back saw to carefully trim the molding for a perfect fit.

  • The carpenter recommended a back saw because of its sturdy reinforced spine.

Synonyms

saw
vsback saw
54 1.0

A tool with a thin toothed blade used to cut wood or other materials

is specifically described by its reinforced upper edge for precise woodworking use
hand saw
vsback saw
1 2.1

A saw used with one hand to cut wood

is about a reinforced stiff upper edge for precision rather than hand operation
backsaw
vsback saw
  • Specialized
7.7

A short hand saw that has a stiff metal back for making precise cuts in wood

is the general term highlighting a stiffened upper edge for precision
dovetail saw
vsback saw
  • Specialized
7.5

A small saw with a stiff back and fine teeth for cutting small angled joints in wood

is more specialized, smaller, and finer than the general stiffened edge tool

Surface Forms

back saw singular
back saws plural

Morphology

back + saw

This is a straightforward compound in which 'back' describes a part of the tool and 'saw' names the tool, so a learner who knows both words can reasonably infer it is a saw with a reinforced/rear (upper) edge used for precise cutting. The meaning is compositional and descriptive rather than idiomatic, a common naming pattern, so it is immediately understandable to B1 learners familiar with the constituents.

Etymology

The noun back saw is named for the stiff upper edge, the back, on its thin blade that keeps the saw straight. That 'back' makes the blade steady, so carpenters use it for 'precise' cuts when working with wood.