emery paper
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A type of abrasive paper, consisting of stiff paper coated with a layer of powdered emery (a very hard, granular mineral) or sand, used for smoothing, polishing, or cleaning surfaces, especially metal or wood.
Usage
"Emery paper" is an uncountable noun. It refers to the material itself, not a single sheet. You use it to describe the tool for abrasive work. - You typically use emery paper, sand with emery paper, or polish with emery paper. - It is often categorized by its grit (coarseness), such as "fine emery paper" or "coarse emery paper."
Examples
Advanced Usage
- "to have the patience of someone using emery paper": This is a metaphorical and somewhat humorous phrase implying extreme, meticulous, and slow patience, akin to the careful, gradual work of sanding with a fine abrasive.
Variants and Related Words
- Sandpaper (n): A more common general term for abrasive paper. While "emery paper" traditionally uses emery powder, "sandpaper" often uses other abrasives like aluminum oxide or silicon carbide. The terms are frequently used interchangeably in everyday language.
- Abrasive paper (n): The broad category that includes emery paper, sandpaper, and other similar materials.
- Emery cloth (n): Similar to emery paper but made with a cloth backing instead of paper, making it more flexible and durable for certain tasks.
Synonyms
- Sandpaper (n): The closest synonym in general usage.
- Abrasive paper (n): A more technical synonym.
Related Phrases
- To sand down: To smooth or reduce a surface using an abrasive like emery paper.
- He sanded down the old paint before applying a new coat.
- To rub down: To clean or smooth a surface by rubbing, often with an abrasive material.
- She rubbed down the metal bracket with emery paper until it shone.
Noun
- stiff paper coated with powdered emery or sand