tool of trade
12
3.5
- noun
- For a surgeon, precision instruments are essential tools of trade that define their practice.
Examples
-
I believe that many other O&M instructors could benefit from using free-standing canes as part of their tools of trade.
Academic text (1995) -
As a chef, his knives are his tools of trade in preparing delicious meals.
-
Graphic designers rely on powerful software as their tools of trade for visual creation.
Synonyms
∞
1.9
Tools and machines needed for a particular activity
628
1.1
A thing you hold to do a job, like a hammer
247
2.7
Tools and metal items used for building or fixing things
13
2.5
An ability needed to do a particular job or to get a job
5
6.5
The skills and tools someone needs for their job
3
4.6
Machines and equipment used to make products in a factory
1
3.9
Skills and methods used to do a job or reach a goal
How Essential
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'equipment or skills essential for one's profession' is directly and transparently built from 'tool' (implement) and 'trade' (occupation) with 'of' marking association/possession. While the more common phrasing is 'tool(s) of the trade' with a definite article, the compositional relation is straightforward and readily inferable by a B1 learner who knows the constituents.
Etymology
The phrase tool of trade comes from the simple image of a worker with special tools on a belt that show their trade and help them do the job. That's why it means 'the equipment or skills you need for your job'.