pawns
word · lemma: pawn
Definition
The small chess pieces that move forward one square at a time and are often the most numerous. 'Pawns' can also mean people or things used by others for their own purposes.
Usage & Nuances
Literal use is in chess and similar games. Figuratively, 'pawns' describes people who are manipulated or used by someone more powerful. Common phrases: 'just pawns in his game.' Not used for valuable or powerful pieces or people.
Example Sentences
There are eight pawns on each side in chess.
basic
He lost all his pawns early in the game.
basic
You shouldn’t let yourself become one of his pawns.
natural
The pawns move forward, but only attack diagonally.
basic
In that company, new employees are just pawns in a bigger system.
natural
Sometimes, politicians treat ordinary people like pawns to win elections.
natural