chalk

word

/ˈtʃɑk/
chawk
/tʃˈɔːk/
chawk

Definition

A soft white or colored material used for writing or drawing on blackboards, and also a type of rock made mainly of calcium carbonate.

Usage & Nuances

Most often refers to sticks used on blackboards in schools. Can also mean the mineral itself. Collocations: 'piece of chalk', 'chalk drawing'. Not usually used for modern whiteboard markers. Informal phrase: 'chalk and cheese' (very different things).

Example Sentences

We drew a picture on the sidewalk with colored chalk.

basic

Please bring a box of chalk for the class.

basic

That cliff is made of chalk and looks very white against the sea.

natural

The teacher wrote the answer on the board with chalk.

basic

I ran out of chalk in the middle of my lesson.

natural

Some sports players use chalk to keep their hands dry.

natural