Words / B1

KAN-ohp-uh-n-uh/ˈkæn ˌəʊpənə/

A can opener (id: can-opener) is a tool for opening tins of food (UK also a tin opener). A bottle opener is for bottle caps; a knife is not the KS3 substitute. Food tech: the can opener stays in the drawer.

Meaning

A tool for opening tins of food (UK also a tin opener).

Examples

• “The can opener stays in the food-tech drawer; a knife is not a substitute in Key Stage 3.”
• “A ring-pull tin still does not replace the can opener on the equipment list for the practical.”

Good to know

a can opener (UK also a tin opener). Contrast: a bottle opener. Food tech. Countable tools. Mix-up: a can in UK English is often a drink can; food is often a tin.

Near in meaning

tin opener

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