Chef Knife vs Cleaver

Chef knives and cleavers solve different cutting jobs despite both having broad blades.

The practical answer

A general-purpose chef knife emphasizes versatility. Cleavers vary widely—from vegetable-focused slicers to heavy meat tools—so “cleaver” alone does not define intended use.

What matters most

Never use a thin general-purpose blade for bone work unless its manufacturer explicitly supports that use.

Where to go next

See knife anatomy for terminology.