toolbox

Everyday

1. A toolbox is a box for keeping and carrying tools such as a hammer, screwdrivers and a tape measure. tree →
2. A toolbox can mean a set of skills, methods or ideas you can use for a job: a maths toolbox of strategies. tree →

In the lessons

Everyday life and DT: a toolbox in the shed or the car. School: teachers talk about a «toolbox» of strategies (number lines, drawing a picture, times tables) for solving problems, or a «calm-down toolbox» for feelings. Computing: a toolbox (or toolbar) holds the tools in a program.

Examples

• Dad keeps a hammer in his toolbox. tree →
• Fetch the screwdriver from the toolbox. tree →
• Drawing a diagram is a good strategy in your maths toolbox. tree →
• The plumber carried a heavy toolbox. tree →
• My calm-down toolbox includes deep breathing. tree →
• The art program has a toolbox with brushes and pens. tree →

Note

Countable, one word. Plural: toolboxes. Similar: toolkit, tool chest.