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A1 noun #7,000 most common 16 min read

crutches

Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips crutches in 30 Seconds

Explanation crutches in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'crutches' is a simple noun used to describe a physical object. You might learn it when talking about health or parts of the body. Think of it as 'sticks for walking when your leg is hurt.' You use it in basic sentences like 'I have crutches' or 'He needs crutches.' It is a concrete object you can see in a hospital. At this stage, don't worry about the metaphorical meanings; just focus on the physical object and the fact that it usually comes in a pair. It's a useful word for basic communication if you ever have a small accident or see someone who does. You can remember it by looking at the shape—long sticks that help you stand. It's often taught alongside words like 'doctor,' 'hospital,' and 'hurt.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 'crutches' in more descriptive sentences. You might say 'I am on crutches because I broke my leg.' You understand that 'on crutches' describes a temporary situation. You can also use basic verbs like 'walk with' or 'use.' You might learn that there are different types, like the ones that go under your arms. You can describe someone else: 'The boy on crutches is my friend.' You are becoming more comfortable with the plural form and the fact that we usually talk about them as a pair. You might also see the word in simple stories or health-related dialogues. It's a key word for describing physical limitations in a basic but clear way.

At the B1 level, you begin to understand the metaphorical use of 'crutch.' You might hear someone say 'He uses coffee as a crutch to wake up.' This means he relies on coffee too much. You can use the word to describe support systems in life. You also start to use more complex grammar, like 'If I hadn't used crutches, my leg wouldn't have healed.' You can discuss the difficulties of using them, such as 'walking on crutches is very tiring.' You understand the social context—that people might help you more when they see you on crutches. Your vocabulary is expanding to include related words like 'cane' or 'injury' and you can compare them. You are moving from just identifying the object to discussing its impact on daily life.

At the B2 level, you can use 'crutches' fluently in both literal and metaphorical contexts. You might write an essay about how technology can be a crutch for students, preventing them from learning basic skills. You understand nuances in phrasing, such as 'leaning on someone as a crutch' versus 'getting support from someone.' You can use the word in professional or academic settings, like 'The industry relied on government crutches for too long.' You are comfortable with various collocations like 'emotional crutch,' 'financial crutch,' or 'psychological crutch.' You can also describe the physical experience in detail, using adverbs like 'clumsily' or 'efficiently.' Your understanding of the word is now multi-dimensional, covering health, psychology, and social dynamics.

At the C1 level, you appreciate the subtle connotations of 'crutches.' You recognize when the word is being used ironically or with a specific rhetorical purpose. You might analyze how the image of crutches is used in literature to symbolize a character's dependency or their path to recovery. You can participate in complex debates about whether certain social safety nets are 'foundations' or 'crutches.' Your use of the word is precise; you choose it specifically when you want to imply that a support is potentially hindering long-term independence. You also understand technical variations and can discuss the history or engineering of mobility aids if needed. The word has become a versatile tool in your advanced vocabulary, used for sophisticated metaphors and precise descriptions.

At the C2 level, 'crutches' is a word you can manipulate with complete mastery. You might use it in a philosophical discussion about the nature of human dependency and whether any of us truly 'stand alone.' You understand the deepest etymological roots and how the word has shifted over centuries. You can use it in highly formal writing, such as a medical journal or a sociological critique, as well as in creative writing where it might serve as a central motif. You are aware of rare usages and can play with the word's sounds and meanings in poetry or puns. For you, 'crutches' is not just a word for a tool, but a concept that touches on the fundamental human condition of vulnerability and the structures we build to support it. Your command is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

crutches in 30 Seconds

Crutches are physical devices used to support walking when a leg or foot is injured, typically used in pairs and made of metal or wood.
The word is commonly used as a metaphor for an unhealthy dependency on a person, substance, or habit to cope with life's challenges.
There are two main medical types: axillary (under the armpit) and forearm (with a cuff around the arm), each serving different stability needs.
Grammatically, 'crutches' is usually plural when referring to the object, while 'crutch' is often singular when used in a metaphorical or symbolic sense.

The word 'crutches' refers to essential mobility aids designed to assist individuals who have difficulty walking due to an injury, surgery, or a long-term physical disability. In its most literal sense, crutches are physical tools—typically made of lightweight metal like aluminum or traditional wood—that transfer weight from the legs to the upper body. This allows the injured limb to remain non-weight-bearing or partial-weight-bearing, which is crucial for the healing process of bones, ligaments, and tendons. Beyond the physical realm, the term is frequently used as a metaphor to describe a person, object, or habit that someone relies on too heavily to cope with life's challenges. For example, someone might use a specific habit as an emotional crutch to avoid facing their anxieties directly. Understanding 'crutches' requires recognizing both this medical utility and its profound psychological implications in everyday language.

Medical Context: Crutches are prescribed by doctors or physical therapists after incidents like a broken leg, a sprained ankle, or knee surgery. They come in various forms, such as axillary (underarm) crutches or Loftstrand (forearm) crutches, each serving specific stability needs.

After the soccer match resulted in a fractured fibula, Mark had to navigate the university hallways using a pair of aluminum crutches.

The evolution of crutches is a fascinating study in human ingenuity. Historically, they were simple T-shaped wooden sticks. Today, they are ergonomic marvels. The mechanics of using crutches involve a complex coordination of the triceps, latissimus dorsi, and core muscles. It is not merely about leaning; it is about controlled propulsion. When a person uses crutches, they are essentially re-learning how to interact with gravity. This physical struggle often mirrors the metaphorical struggle of dependency. In literature and film, a character on crutches often symbolizes vulnerability or a temporary state of transition. However, they also represent resilience—the ability to keep moving forward despite a significant setback.

Metaphorical Usage: In psychology, a 'crutch' is something used to support a person who is otherwise unable to stand on their own emotionally. This could be a substance, a person, or a defense mechanism that prevents genuine growth.

She realized that her constant checking of social media had become an emotional crutch to deal with her loneliness.

In social settings, seeing someone on crutches usually elicits an immediate empathetic response. It is a universal sign of 'temporary disability.' People often hold doors open or offer seats, recognizing the physical exertion required to move. This social aspect makes crutches a unique tool that changes the interaction between an individual and their environment. Furthermore, the physical design of crutches has branched into specialized equipment for athletes, such as 'smart crutches' that reduce wrist strain, showing that even a basic tool can be optimized through modern engineering. Whether in a hospital corridor or a metaphorical discussion about self-reliance, 'crutches' remains a powerful word denoting support, recovery, and the human need for assistance.

Types of Crutches: Axillary crutches are the most common in the US, fitting under the armpits. Forearm crutches, common in Europe, involve a cuff that circles the arm. Platform crutches are used by those with weak hand grip, allowing the weight to rest on the forearm.

The physical therapist adjusted the height of the crutches to ensure the patient's shoulders wouldn't hunch.

He leaned his crutches against the wall before sinking into the armchair with a sigh of relief.

Finally, the word 'crutches' appears in various technical fields. In construction, a 'crutch' can refer to a support timber. In old nautical terms, it referred to a forked support for a boom. However, the medical and metaphorical meanings remain the most dominant in contemporary English. When you learn this word, you are not just learning a name for an object; you are learning about the human experience of overcoming physical limitations and the complex ways we lean on others or things to get through the day.

Using the word 'crutches' correctly involves understanding its grammatical behavior as a plural noun and its specific collocations. Most commonly, it appears as a pair. We rarely say 'I have a crutch' unless we are literally holding only one, which is uncommon for most leg injuries. Instead, we say 'a pair of crutches' or simply 'crutches.' The verbs associated with crutches are quite specific: you 'use' crutches, you 'are on' crutches, you 'walk with' crutches, or you 'lean on' crutches. Each of these conveys a slightly different aspect of the experience. 'Being on crutches' implies a state of existence or a period of time, such as 'I was on crutches for six weeks.'

Verb Pairings: Common verbs include: use, need, require, lean, hobble, swing, and adjust. Examples: 'He hobbled on his crutches' suggests difficulty, while 'He swung through his crutches' suggests speed and proficiency.

Learning to walk on crutches requires a surprising amount of upper body strength and balance.

When using 'crutches' in a sentence, adjectives can provide more detail about the material or the situation. You might see 'wooden crutches,' 'aluminum crutches,' 'forearm crutches,' or 'temporary crutches.' In a metaphorical sense, adjectives like 'emotional,' 'intellectual,' or 'financial' often precede 'crutch' (singular is more common here). For instance, 'The subsidy acted as a financial crutch for the failing industry.' Here, the word describes a support system that prevents the industry from standing on its own. In such cases, the singular 'crutch' is used to define the specific type of support.

Prepositional Patterns: The most common prepositions are 'on' and 'with.' Use 'on' for the state (on crutches) and 'with' for the instrument (walk with crutches). You also 'lean against' something while on crutches.

By the third week, she was so used to her crutches that she could move almost as fast as her friends.

In complex sentences, you might describe the action of putting them aside. 'He set his crutches aside to sit down' or 'She leaned her crutches against the table.' It’s also important to note the phrase 'to lean on someone as a crutch,' which means to use a person for support in an unhealthy or overly dependent way. This transition from physical object to abstract concept is a key part of mastering the word. In medical reports, you might see more formal phrasing like 'the patient is ambulatory with the assistance of axillary crutches.' In casual conversation, you’d simply say 'I’m getting off my crutches next Tuesday.'

Common Phrasings: 'A pair of crutches', 'To be off crutches', 'To rely on a crutch', 'To use something as a crutch'. These phrases cover 90% of the word's usage in daily life.

The athlete's reliance on painkillers was described by the doctor as a dangerous medical crutch.

It took him several minutes to navigate the stairs on crutches without any help.

Finally, consider the nuances of 'crutch' as a verb, though it is rare. In some dialects or older texts, 'to crutch' can mean to support something with a crutch. However, for modern learners, focusing on the noun form and the 'be on/use' verb patterns is the most effective way to achieve natural-sounding English. Whether you are describing a physical recovery or a psychological dependency, 'crutches' provides a vivid image of support and the struggle for independence.

You will encounter the word 'crutches' in a wide variety of environments, ranging from the highly clinical to the deeply personal. In a hospital or a doctor's office, the word is ubiquitous. You’ll hear nurses giving instructions on how to use them safely: 'Make sure the crutches don't press directly into your armpits to avoid nerve damage.' In the world of sports, commentators frequently mention 'crutches' when an athlete is seen on the sidelines after a severe injury. It becomes a visual shorthand for a season-ending event. For example, 'Seeing the star quarterback on crutches is a devastating blow to the team’s championship hopes.'

Medical Settings: Hospitals, physical therapy clinics, and pharmacies are the primary places for the literal word. You'll hear phrases like 'crutch training' or 'adjusting the crutch height.'

The orthopedic surgeon noted that the patient would need crutches for at least six weeks post-operation.

In the realm of psychology and self-help, 'crutches' is a powerful metaphorical tool. Therapists might talk about 'emotional crutches' during sessions. You might hear this in podcasts or read it in articles about personal growth. It’s often used to challenge someone’s reliance on external factors for their internal happiness. In business and economics, analysts might refer to government subsidies or low-interest rates as 'crutches' that keep 'zombie companies' alive. This usage highlights the idea that the support is preventing a necessary evolution or a natural failure that would lead to a healthier system overall.

Media and Literature: News reports use it literally for injured public figures. In literature, crutches often symbolize a character's internal struggle or a literal handicap that they must overcome to achieve their goals.

The documentary explored how some people use work as a crutch to avoid dealing with their personal lives.

Another common place to hear the word is in everyday social interactions. If a friend shows up to a party on crutches, the word becomes the center of the conversation. 'What happened? How long will you be on crutches?' It’s a social icebreaker, albeit an unfortunate one. In schools, teachers might use the word when discussing study habits: 'Don't use your calculator as a crutch; make sure you understand the underlying math.' This variety of contexts—from the literal hospital bed to the metaphorical boardroom—makes 'crutches' a versatile and deeply embedded word in the English language. Understanding where you hear it helps you grasp the tone—whether it's clinical, empathetic, or critical.

Educational Contexts: Teachers often use the term to describe tools that students rely on too much, like translation software in a language class or AI for writing essays.

He walked into the office on crutches, immediately drawing the attention and sympathy of his colleagues.

The coach warned that talent alone can become a crutch if you don't put in the hard work.

In summary, 'crutches' is a word that bridges the gap between physical reality and abstract thought. Whether it’s the metallic 'clack' on a tile floor or the realization that a habit is holding you back, the word resonates because it touches on the universal human experience of needing help and the eventual goal of standing on our own two feet.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word 'crutches' is confusion regarding its plurality. Because crutches are almost always used in pairs, the plural form 'crutches' is the default. Many learners mistakenly say 'I am on a crutch' when they mean they are using the mobility aid. While it is grammatically possible to use a single crutch, in 95% of medical cases, a pair is prescribed. Using the singular 'crutch' in a physical context often sounds unnatural to native speakers unless you are specifically referring to one of the two pieces of equipment. For example, 'I dropped one of my crutches' is correct, but 'I need a crutch to walk' usually sounds like you are missing the other half of the set.

Singular vs. Plural: Physical: Use 'crutches' (plural). Metaphorical: Use 'crutch' (singular). Incorrect: 'He uses a crutches.' Correct: 'He uses crutches.'

Incorrect: She has been on crutch since her accident. Correct: She has been on crutches since her accident.

Another common error involves the choice of prepositions. Learners often say 'walk by crutches' or 'walk in crutches.' The correct prepositions are 'on' or 'with.' You 'walk with crutches' (using them as a tool) or you 'are on crutches' (describing your current state). Using 'in' suggests you are inside the crutches, which is physically impossible. Furthermore, there is a common spelling mistake where learners confuse 'crutch' with 'clutch.' A 'clutch' is a part of a car's engine or a type of small handbag. While they sound similar, their meanings are entirely unrelated. Confusing these can lead to very confusing sentences, such as 'I need my clutch to walk,' which would imply you are trying to walk using a car part.

Preposition Errors: Wrong: 'I am walking in crutches.' Right: 'I am walking on crutches.' Wrong: 'He goes by crutches.' Right: 'He goes with crutches.'

He felt embarrassed when he accidentally said he was using a 'clutch' instead of crutches.

Confusion also arises between 'crutches' and other mobility aids like 'canes' or 'walkers.' While they all serve a similar purpose, they are not interchangeable. A 'cane' is a single stick held in one hand, usually for balance or minor weight-bearing support. A 'walker' is a four-legged frame that the user pushes in front of them. Using 'crutches' to describe a walker can lead to misunderstandings in medical or insurance contexts. Finally, in metaphorical usage, some people over-use the term. Not every support is a 'crutch.' A crutch implies a dependency that might be hindering progress. If a support is healthy and necessary, it might be better described as a 'foundation' or 'support system.'

Vocabulary Distinction: Crutches (two supports), Cane (one stick), Walker (four-legged frame), Wheelchair (seat with wheels). Ensure you use the specific term for the specific device.

The elderly man used a cane for balance, but after his surgery, he needed a full pair of crutches.

It is a mistake to think that crutches are only for the elderly; they are a common tool for people of all ages recovering from injury.

By avoiding these common pitfalls—plurality errors, prepositional mistakes, spelling confusion with 'clutch,' and terminological vagueness—you can use the word 'crutches' with the precision of a native speaker. Accuracy here is especially important in medical or descriptive contexts where clarity is paramount.

When discussing mobility aids or metaphorical supports, several words share the semantic space with 'crutches.' Understanding the nuances between them allows for more precise communication. The most direct physical alternatives are 'canes,' 'walkers,' and 'walking sticks.' A cane is typically for balance and minor support, often used by the elderly or those with chronic joint pain. A walker (or Zimmer frame) provides much more stability and is used by those who cannot balance on two points of contact. 'Walking sticks' are often associated with hiking or leisure, rather than medical necessity. In a clinical setting, you might also hear the term 'ambulatory aid,' which is a formal umbrella term for all these devices.

Physical Alternatives: Cane: For balance and light weight-bearing. Walker: For maximum stability and full-body support. Wheelchair: For when walking is not possible at all. Scooter: A motorized alternative for mobility.

While crutches are great for speed, a walker provides the necessary stability for his early stages of rehab.

In metaphorical contexts, the synonyms for 'crutch' change depending on the tone you wish to convey. If you want to describe a support in a positive or neutral light, you might use 'prop,' 'stay,' 'support,' or 'mainstay.' For example, 'Her faith was her mainstay during the difficult years.' If the tone is more critical, implying that the support is a weakness, you might use 'dependency,' 'addiction,' or 'security blanket.' A 'security blanket' suggests a psychological need for comfort that one should eventually outgrow, much like a child with a literal blanket. 'Prop' is often used in a similar way to crutch, suggesting that without it, the person or system would collapse.

Metaphorical Comparisons: Support: Neutral/Positive. Prop: Suggests potential collapse without it. Security Blanket: Suggests emotional immaturity or fear. Dependency: Highly clinical and often negative.

He didn't want his inheritance to become a financial crutch that prevented him from finding a career.

Another interesting set of related words comes from the world of architecture and engineering, where 'buttress' or 'brace' might be used. A buttress is a permanent support for a wall, while a brace is often a temporary support during construction. While you wouldn't call medical crutches 'braces' (though you might wear a 'leg brace'), the concept of providing external structural support is the same. In literature, you might see the word 'staves' used in older contexts to refer to sticks used for support, though this is now archaic. Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the word that fits the specific 'flavor' of the support you are describing.

Technical Alternatives: Brace: Often used for a device that stabilizes a joint (e.g., knee brace). Splint: A rigid support for a broken bone. Sling: A fabric support for an injured arm.

The doctor replaced his crutches with a lightweight walking cane as his leg grew stronger.

The government's new policy was seen as a crutch for the housing market, rather than a long-term solution.

By mastering these synonyms and their specific contexts, you expand your vocabulary from a single functional word to a sophisticated toolkit for describing support, dependency, and the various ways humans navigate physical and emotional challenges. Whether you need a clinical term or a poetic metaphor, you now have the alternatives at your fingertips.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the 17th century, the word 'crutched' was also used to describe certain friars (Crutched Friars) because they carried a staff with a cross on it.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkrʌtʃɪz/

US /ˈkrʌtʃəz/

The stress is on the first syllable: CRUTCH-es.

Rhymes With

clutches touches much is Dutch is hutches smutches re-touches non-touches

Common Errors

Confusing with 'clutches' (adding an 'L').
Pronouncing the 'u' like 'oo' (crooches).
Failing to pronounce the 't' in the 'tch' sound.
Making the 'es' sound like a hard 's' instead of 'iz'.
Dropping the 'r' (cutches).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is short and common in stories and news. Easy to recognize.

Writing 3/5

Spelling 'crutches' (with the 't-c-h') can be tricky for beginners.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but plural 'iz' sound is important.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'clutches' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

stick walk hurt leg help

Learn Next

cane walker wheelchair recovery disability

Advanced

ambulatory orthopedic dependency prop buttress

Grammar to Know

Plural Nouns for Pairs

We use 'crutches' like 'glasses' or 'scissors' because they usually come in a set of two.

Preposition 'On' for States

Use 'on crutches' to describe the condition of the person (e.g., 'She is on crutches').

Preposition 'With' for Instruments

Use 'with crutches' to describe the tool used for the action (e.g., 'He walks with crutches').

Countable Nouns

You can say 'one crutch' or 'two crutches,' but 'crutches' is the standard plural.

Metaphorical Singular

When used as a metaphor, we often use the singular form: 'a crutch'.

Examples by Level

I have two crutches.

J'ai deux béquilles.

Uses the plural 'crutches' with the number 'two'.

He needs crutches to walk.

Il a besoin de béquilles pour marcher.

The verb 'needs' is followed by the plural noun.

My crutches are blue.

Mes béquilles sont bleues.

Shows the plural agreement with 'are'.

Where are my crutches?

Où sont mes béquilles ?

A simple question using the plural 'are'.

She uses crutches today.

Elle utilise des béquilles aujourd'hui.

Present simple tense with the plural noun.

The crutches are near the bed.

Les béquilles sont près du lit.

Uses a prepositional phrase 'near the bed'.

I don't like crutches.

Je n'aime pas les béquilles.

Negative sentence with 'don't like'.

Are those your crutches?

Ce sont tes béquilles ?

Uses the demonstrative pronoun 'those' for plural objects.

I was on crutches for two weeks.

J'ai été avec des béquilles pendant deux semaines.

The phrase 'on crutches' describes a state over time.

It is hard to walk with crutches.

C'est difficile de marcher avec des béquilles.

Uses 'hard to' + verb + 'with' + noun.

He broke his leg and now uses crutches.

Il s'est cassé la jambe et maintenant il utilise des béquilles.

Connecting two clauses with 'and'.

Can you bring me my crutches, please?

Peux-tu m'apporter mes béquilles, s'il te plaît ?

A polite request using 'Can you'.

She leaned her crutches against the wall.

Elle a appuyé ses béquilles contre le mur.

Uses the past tense 'leaned' and preposition 'against'.

The doctor gave him a pair of crutches.

Le médecin lui a donné une paire de béquilles.

The phrase 'a pair of' is very common with crutches.

Walking on crutches is slow.

Marcher avec des béquilles est lent.

Gerund 'Walking' used as the subject.

I am learning how to use crutches.

J'apprends à utiliser des béquilles.

Present continuous tense 'am learning'.

He uses his sense of humor as a crutch to hide his sadness.

Il utilise son sens de l'humour comme une béquille pour cacher sa tristesse.

Metaphorical use of 'crutch' as a singular noun.

After the surgery, I had to practice using crutches on stairs.

Après la chirurgie, j'ai dû m'entraîner à utiliser des béquilles dans les escaliers.

Uses 'had to' for obligation and 'using' as a gerund.

She finally stopped using crutches and started walking on her own.

Elle a enfin arrêté d'utiliser des béquilles et a commencé à marcher seule.

Contrasts 'using crutches' with 'walking on her own'.

Don't rely on your parents as a financial crutch.

Ne compte pas sur tes parents comme une béquille financière.

Imperative sentence with a metaphorical 'crutch'.

The athlete was frustrated to be on crutches during the final game.

L'athlète était frustré d'être avec des béquilles pendant le match final.

Adjective 'frustrated' followed by 'to be on crutches'.

The hospital provided adjustable crutches for the tall patient.

L'hôpital a fourni des béquilles réglables pour le grand patient.

Uses the adjective 'adjustable' to modify 'crutches'.

If you don't use your crutches correctly, you might hurt your arms.

Si tu n'utilises pas tes béquilles correctement, tu pourrais te faire mal aux bras.

First conditional sentence structure.

He was so fast on his crutches that he beat us to the car.

Il était si rapide avec ses béquilles qu'il nous a devancés jusqu'à la voiture.

Result clause using 'so... that'.

Many critics argue that social media has become a psychological crutch for the lonely.

De nombreux critiques soutiennent que les réseaux sociaux sont devenus une béquille psychologique pour les personnes seules.

Complex sentence with a subordinate clause starting with 'that'.

The government's subsidies are merely a crutch for an industry that refuses to modernize.

Les subventions du gouvernement ne sont qu'une béquille pour une industrie qui refuse de se moderniser.

Metaphorical use in an economic context.

Navigating the city on crutches made her realize how inaccessible many buildings are.

Naviguer dans la ville avec des béquilles lui a fait réaliser à quel point de nombreux bâtiments sont inaccessibles.

Gerund phrase as the subject of the sentence.

He leaned heavily on his crutches as he gave his emotional speech.

Il s'est lourdement appuyé sur ses béquilles pendant son discours émouvant.

Uses the adverb 'heavily' to describe the action.

The therapist warned that using work as a crutch would eventually lead to burnout.

Le thérapeute a averti qu'utiliser le travail comme une béquille mènerait finalement à l'épuisement professionnel.

Reported speech with a metaphorical subject.

Despite being on crutches, she managed to complete the charity walk.

Malgré le fait d'être avec des béquilles, elle a réussi à terminer la marche de bienfaisance.

Uses 'Despite' followed by a gerund.

The new carbon-fiber crutches are much lighter and more durable than the old wooden ones.

Les nouvelles béquilles en fibre de carbone sont beaucoup plus légères et plus durables que les anciennes en bois.

Comparative structure with adjectives.

She felt a sense of freedom when she was finally able to discard her crutches.

Elle a ressenti un sentiment de liberté lorsqu'elle a enfin pu se débarrasser de ses béquilles.

Uses a time clause beginning with 'when'.

Relying on simplistic slogans can be a dangerous intellectual crutch in complex political debates.

S'appuyer sur des slogans simplistes peut être une béquille intellectuelle dangereuse dans les débats politiques complexes.

Sophisticated metaphorical usage in an academic context.

The protagonist's literal crutches in the novel serve as a poignant metaphor for his fractured identity.

Les béquilles littérales du protagoniste dans le roman servent de métaphore poignante pour son identité fracturée.

Literary analysis using 'serve as' and 'poignant metaphor'.

He had become so accustomed to the emotional crutch of his partner's constant reassurance that he couldn't make a decision alone.

Il s'était tellement habitué à la béquille émotionnelle du réconfort constant de son partenaire qu'il ne pouvait plus prendre de décision seul.

Uses 'so... that' with a complex noun phrase.

The medical team meticulously adjusted the forearm crutches to ensure optimal weight distribution for the patient.

L'équipe médicale a méticuleusement ajusté les béquilles d'avant-bras pour assurer une répartition optimale du poids pour le patient.

Uses precise medical terminology and adverbs.

It is often argued that high-interest rates act as a crutch that prevents inefficient firms from exiting the market.

On soutient souvent que les taux d'intérêt élevés agissent comme une béquille qui empêche les entreprises inefficaces de quitter le marché.

Passive introductory phrase 'It is often argued that'.

The transition from axillary to forearm crutches marked a significant milestone in his physical rehabilitation.

Le passage des béquilles axillaires aux béquilles d'avant-bras a marqué une étape importante dans sa rééducation physique.

Subject is a complex noun phrase 'The transition from... to...'.

Without the crutch of his prepared notes, the lecturer struggled to maintain the flow of his presentation.

Sans la béquille de ses notes préparées, le conférencier avait du mal à maintenir le flux de sa présentation.

Uses 'Without the crutch of' to describe dependency on an object.

The poem explores the fragility of the human spirit, using the image of abandoned crutches as a symbol of healing.

Le poème explore la fragilité de l'esprit humain, utilisant l'image de béquilles abandonnées comme symbole de guérison.

Participial phrase 'using the image of...' modifying the main clause.

The socio-economic framework of the region has long relied on the crutch of foreign aid, stifling indigenous innovation.

Le cadre socio-économique de la région s'appuie depuis longtemps sur la béquille de l'aide étrangère, étouffant l'innovation indigène.

Advanced vocabulary like 'socio-economic framework' and 'stifling'.

To view empathy merely as a psychological crutch for the weak is to profoundly misunderstand the nature of human connection.

Considérer l'empathie simplement comme une béquille psychologique pour les faibles, c'est se méprendre profondément sur la nature des relations humaines.

Infinitive phrase used as the subject for rhetorical effect.

The athlete's reliance on performance-enhancing drugs was a crutch that ultimately led to his downfall and disgrace.

La dépendance de l'athlète aux produits dopants était une béquille qui a finalement conduit à sa chute et à sa disgrâce.

Uses 'ultimately led to' to describe long-term consequences.

In the absence of a robust legal system, personal connections often serve as a crutch for navigating bureaucratic hurdles.

En l'absence d'un système juridique solide, les relations personnelles servent souvent de béquille pour naviguer dans les obstacles bureaucratiques.

Formal introductory phrase 'In the absence of...'.

The architect incorporated the aesthetic of the crutch into the building's support beams, blending function with symbolism.

L'architecte a incorporé l'esthétique de la béquille dans les poutres de soutien du bâtiment, mélangeant fonction et symbolisme.

Uses 'incorporated... into' and 'blending... with'.

He critiqued the philosopher's argument as being supported by the crutch of outdated metaphysical assumptions.

Il a critiqué l'argument du philosophe comme étant soutenu par la béquille d'hypothèses métaphysiques dépassées.

Passive construction 'being supported by'.

The documentary poignantly captures the moment the veteran discards his crutches, symbolizing a hard-won return to autonomy.

Le documentaire capture de manière poignante le moment où le vétéran jette ses béquilles, symbolisant un retour à l'autonomie durement acquis.

Uses 'poignantly captures' and 'symbolizing' as an appositive.

Language itself can be a crutch, a set of symbols we lean upon when direct experience fails to suffice.

Le langage lui-même peut être une béquille, un ensemble de symboles sur lesquels nous nous appuyons lorsque l'expérience directe ne suffit pas.

Philosophical apposition 'a set of symbols we lean upon'.

Synonyms

walking aids supports canes staffs braces

Antonyms

wheelchair walker unassisted walking

Common Collocations

on crutches

pair of crutches

walk with crutches

emotional crutch

lean on crutches

adjustable crutches

forearm crutches

aluminum crutches

off crutches

financial crutch

Common Phrases

To use something as a crutch

— To rely on something too much because you cannot cope without it.

He uses humor as a crutch to avoid serious conversations.

A crutch to lean on

— A person or thing that provides support, sometimes excessively.

My sister was my crutch to lean on after the breakup.

To be off your crutches

— To have recovered enough to walk without assistance.

I'll be happy when I'm finally off my crutches.

Hobble on crutches

— To walk with difficulty and uneven steps while using crutches.

He hobbled on crutches across the wet parking lot.

Toss away the crutches

— To stop needing support, often used symbolically for recovery.

She literally tossed away her crutches after her final therapy session.

Rely on a crutch

— To depend on something that might be holding you back from true progress.

Relying on a crutch like alcohol will only make things worse.

Get fitted for crutches

— To have a professional adjust the size of crutches to your body.

You need to get fitted for crutches so you don't hurt your back.

Swing through crutches

— A specific way of walking where you swing your body between the crutches.

Once he got the rhythm, he could swing through his crutches quite fast.

Set of crutches

— Another way to say a pair of crutches.

We have an extra set of crutches in the garage if you need them.

Temporary crutch

— A support meant to be used only for a short time.

The new law is just a temporary crutch for the economy.

Often Confused With

crutches vs Clutches

Clutches are car parts or a type of bag. Crutches are for walking.

crutches vs Cane

A cane is a single stick; crutches are usually a pair with arm supports.

crutches vs Walker

A walker is a four-legged frame, more stable than crutches.

Idioms & Expressions

"To use a crutch"

— To rely on something as a way of dealing with a problem or difficulty, often in a way that is not healthy.

She uses her busy schedule as a crutch to avoid her family.

Informal/Neutral

"Emotional crutch"

— Something or someone that a person relies on for emotional support to an unhealthy degree.

His dog became his emotional crutch after he lost his job.

Neutral/Psychological

"Throw away the crutches"

— To gain independence and no longer need support that was once necessary.

After months of therapy, she was ready to throw away the crutches of her past.

Literary/Metaphorical

"A crutch for the mind"

— Something that helps one think or cope but might limit true mental growth.

Rote memorization can be a crutch for the mind.

Academic/Metaphorical

"Leaning on a crutch"

— Being dependent on something or someone to get through a situation.

You're leaning on that excuse as a crutch.

Informal

"To be on crutches (metaphorical)"

— To be in a weakened state that requires external help to function.

The banking sector was on crutches for years after the crash.

Journalistic

"Intellectual crutch"

— A simplified idea or tool used to avoid complex thinking.

Don't let these definitions become an intellectual crutch; read the full text.

Academic

"Social crutch"

— Something used to feel more comfortable in social situations, like a phone or a specific friend.

She uses her phone as a social crutch at parties.

Informal

"Financial crutch"

— External money used to keep a person or business afloat when they should be self-sufficient.

The trust fund was a financial crutch that kept him from working.

Neutral

"Crutch-like support"

— Support that is helpful but implies the receiver is currently unable to stand alone.

The mentor provided a crutch-like support during the first week of the job.

Professional

Easily Confused

crutches vs Clutch

Similar sound and spelling.

A clutch is a mechanism in a vehicle or a small handbag. A crutch is a mobility aid.

He stepped on the clutch in his car, but he needed his crutches to walk to the house.

crutches vs Cane

Both are sticks used for walking.

A cane is held in one hand for balance. Crutches take the full weight of the body via the arms.

The old man used a cane, but the young athlete needed crutches for his broken leg.

crutches vs Walker

Both are mobility aids.

A walker has a metal frame and four legs. It is much more stable and slower than crutches.

After his hip surgery, he used a walker before moving to crutches.

crutches vs Stilt

Both are long poles used with the legs.

Stilts are for height and performance. Crutches are for medical support and injury.

The circus performer was on stilts, while the injured boy was on crutches.

crutches vs Brace

Both support injured limbs.

A brace is worn directly on the body (like a knee brace). Crutches are external tools you hold.

He wore a leg brace and used crutches to keep the weight off his knee.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + have + crutches.

I have crutches.

Subject + be + on crutches.

He is on crutches.

Subject + use + something + as a crutch.

She uses her phone as a crutch.

It is + adjective + to + walk with crutches.

It is tiring to walk with crutches.

The crutch of + noun + prevents + noun.

The crutch of aid prevents local growth.

To rely on the crutch of + abstract noun + is to + verb.

To rely on the crutch of nostalgia is to ignore the future.

Mixed

A pair of crutches + verb.

A pair of crutches was leaning against the wall.

Mixed

Subject + get off + crutches.

When will you get off your crutches?

Word Family

Nouns

crutch (singular)

crutches (plural)

Verbs

crutch (rarely used: to support with a crutch)

Adjectives

crutch-like

cane

walker

splint

brace

orthotics

How to Use It

frequency

Common in medical, sports, and psychological contexts.

Common Mistakes

I am walking in crutches. → I am walking on crutches.
We use the preposition 'on' to describe the state of using crutches for support.
He needs a crutches. → He needs crutches. / He needs a pair of crutches.
Crutches is plural, so you cannot use the singular article 'a' without the word 'pair'.
I broke my leg, so I need my clutches. → I broke my leg, so I need my crutches.
Confusing 'crutches' with 'clutches' (car parts) is a common phonological error.
She is using her friend as a crutches. → She is using her friend as a crutch.
In metaphorical usage, we typically use the singular form 'crutch'.
The crutches was too tall. → The crutches were too tall.
Since 'crutches' is plural, the verb must also be plural ('were').

Tips

Check the Tips

Always check the rubber tips of your crutches. If they are worn down, they can slip on wet or smooth floors, which is very dangerous.

Don't Lean on Your Armpits

Leaning your weight on your armpits can cause nerve damage. Always use your hands and arms to take the weight.

Pair vs. Set

Remember that 'a pair of crutches' and 'a set of crutches' mean the same thing. Native speakers use both.

Always Plural for Objects

If you see two sticks, call them 'crutches.' Only use the singular 'crutch' for the metaphorical meaning or when talking about one specific stick.

Accept Help

When you are on crutches, people will often offer to help. It's perfectly fine to accept help with doors or carrying bags!

Build Upper Body Strength

Using crutches is a workout for your arms and chest. Don't be surprised if you feel sore in your upper body at first.

Crutch vs. Clutch

Always double-check your spelling. A 'clutch' is for a car; a 'crutch' is for a leg.

Tighten the Bolts

If your crutches are adjustable, make sure the wing nuts or buttons are securely locked before you use them.

Use with Caution

Calling someone's habit a 'crutch' can be seen as an insult. Use it carefully in social situations.

Modern Materials

If you have to be on crutches for a long time, look for carbon fiber ones—they are much lighter and look cooler!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

CRUTCHES: Can't Really Use Two legs, Can Help Every Step. This helps you remember both the physical function and the 'C' and 'S' at the ends.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant letter 'A' made of metal. The two sides of the 'A' are like the two crutches that support you when you are at the top (standing up).

Word Web

Hospital Broken Leg Support Dependency Aluminum Recovery Mobility Balance

Challenge

Try to write three sentences: one about a physical injury, one about an emotional dependency, and one about a business using a 'crutch'.

Word Origin

The word 'crutch' comes from the Middle English 'crucche', which evolved from the Old English word 'crycc'. It is related to the Dutch 'kruk' and the German 'Krücke'.

Original meaning: The original meaning in Old English referred to a staff or a stick with a cross-piece at the top to lean on.

Germanic

Cultural Context

While 'crutches' is a neutral medical term, be careful when using it metaphorically as a 'crutch' to avoid sounding overly judgmental about someone's coping mechanisms.

In the US, 'on crutches' is the standard phrase. In the UK, you might occasionally hear someone say they are 'on sticks,' though this is more informal.

Tiny Tim in Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' is famously depicted with a crutch. The film 'Rear Window' features a protagonist who is temporarily disabled, highlighting the use of mobility aids. The 'Crutched Friars' were a religious order in London, giving their name to a street that still exists.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Hospital/Clinic

How do I adjust these?
Do they come in different sizes?
Can I walk on stairs?
My armpits are sore.

Sports Injury

He's out for the season.
When can he drop the crutches?
He's on the sidelines.
Tough break for the team.

Psychology/Self-Help

Don't use it as a crutch.
Emotional dependency.
Finding inner strength.
Letting go of supports.

Business/Finance

Government crutches.
Propping up the industry.
Financial safety net.
Market independence.

Everyday Social

Need a hand with that?
How long on those?
Let me get the door.
Take it easy.

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever had to use crutches for an injury?"

"Do you think people rely on technology as a crutch too much these days?"

"What is the hardest thing about moving around on crutches?"

"If you saw someone on crutches, how would you try to help them?"

"In your country, are forearm crutches or underarm crutches more common?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you felt physically or emotionally dependent on something. Was it a 'crutch'?

Imagine you have to spend a week on crutches. Describe how your daily routine would change.

Discuss the difference between a 'support system' and an 'emotional crutch'. When does one become the other?

Describe the feeling of finally being 'off crutches' after a long recovery. What does freedom feel like?

Research the history of mobility aids and write about how crutches have changed over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Axillary crutches fit under your armpits and are usually for short-term use. Forearm crutches have a cuff that goes around your arm and are often used for longer periods or by people with more experience using mobility aids.

The general rule is 'Up with the good, down with the bad.' When going up, lead with your uninjured leg. When going down, lead with your crutches and your injured leg.

Usually, yes. However, for some minor injuries or in the later stages of recovery, a doctor might suggest using only one crutch on the opposite side of the injury.

This usually happens because you are leaning your weight on your armpits. You should actually use your arm muscles and hands to support your weight. There should be a small gap between the crutch pad and your armpit.

It refers to something a person relies on to avoid dealing with emotional pain or stress, such as a bad habit, a substance, or even another person.

It depends on which leg is injured and whether you have an automatic or manual car. However, it is generally unsafe and often illegal until a doctor clears you.

When standing straight, the top of the crutches should be about 1-2 inches below your armpits, and the handgrips should be level with your hips.

Aluminum crutches are usually lighter and easier to adjust, making them the preferred choice in modern medicine. Wooden ones are cheaper but heavier.

They are simply called 'crutch tips.' They are essential for providing grip and preventing the crutches from slipping on smooth surfaces.

It is very rare and mostly non-standard. You might hear 'he crutched along,' but it is much better to say 'he walked on crutches.'