Pushpin vs. Thumbtack: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Pushpins have a plastic head for easy pushing, while thumbtacks have a flat, metal head.
Key Differences
Pushpins are characterized by their plastic heads and sharp metal needles. They are designed for easy pushing without hurting the fingers. Thumbtacks, on the other hand, usually feature a flat, metal head and a sharp point. They are smaller and less conspicuous than pushpins but can be harder to handle due to their flat design.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
The plastic head of a pushpin offers a comfortable grip, making it easier to push into surfaces like bulletin boards. Thumbtacks, with their flat metal heads, require more precise pressure to insert, which can be less comfortable for the fingers.
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Nov 23, 2023
Pushpins often come in various colors and designs, making them a popular choice for decorative purposes in offices and classrooms. Thumbtacks are typically more utilitarian in appearance, often found in standard metal or clear colors.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Pushpins, with their larger heads, are more visible and easier to remove from surfaces. They are ideal for hanging heavier items on bulletin boards. Thumbtacks, being smaller, are less obtrusive and better suited for hanging lightweight items or for use in tighter spaces where a less noticeable pin is preferred.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
In educational or creative settings, pushpins are often preferred for their ease of use and visibility. Thumbtacks are more common in settings where a more subtle and traditional approach is needed, like in professional office environments.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Aesthetics
Available in various colors and designs
Typically plain and utilitarian
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Nov 23, 2023
Best Use
Hanging heavier items, decorative purposes
Hanging lightweight items, professional settings
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Nov 23, 2023
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Pushpin and Thumbtack Definitions
Pushpin
A tool for temporarily attaching papers to soft surfaces.
He quickly fixed the chart on the corkboard with a pushpin.
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Nov 23, 2023
Thumbtack
A small, flat-headed metal pin for attaching papers to walls or boards.
He used a thumbtack to pin the memo on the notice board.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Pushpin
A small, sharp object with a colored head for easy visibility and handling.
She preferred using a bright red pushpin to mark important dates on her calendar.
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Nov 23, 2023
Thumbtack
A compact tool for temporary paper fastening.
She carefully placed a thumbtack to hold the poster in place.
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Nov 23, 2023
Pushpin
An office supply commonly used in classrooms and offices for display purposes.
The teacher handed out pushpins for students to pin their projects on the wall.
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Nov 23, 2023
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Thumbtack
A discreet pin for pinning items in professional settings.
The office manager preferred thumbtacks for their unobtrusive appearance.
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Nov 23, 2023
Pushpin
A pin with a plastic head used for fastening items to a board.
She used a pushpin to attach the notice to the bulletin board.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Thumbtack
A simple and traditional item for hanging lightweight materials.
To avoid damaging the wall, he used a thumbtack instead of a nail.
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Nov 23, 2023
Pushpin
A convenient accessory for hanging lightweight items on soft surfaces.
I need a pushpin to hang this poster on the fabric-covered board.
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Nov 23, 2023
Thumbtack
A utilitarian fastening accessory with a flat, metal head.
Thumbtacks were scattered on her desk, ready for use.
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Nov 23, 2023
Pushpin
A tacklike pin with a large head that is easily inserted into a wall or board.
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Oct 19, 2023
Thumbtack
A tack with a smooth, rounded head that can be pressed into place with the thumb.
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Oct 19, 2023
Pushpin
(Archaic) A children's game in which one player tries to push a pin over an opponent's pin.
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Oct 19, 2023
Thumbtack
(North America) A small nail-like tack with a slightly rounded head that can be pressed into place with light pressure from the thumb; used for hanging light articles on a wall or noticeboard.
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Oct 19, 2023
Pushpin
An old children's game where pins are placed on a table and each player tries to push his pin so as to cross the other's.
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Oct 19, 2023
Thumbtack
Fasten with thumbtacks;
The teacher thumbtacked the notice on the bulletin board
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Are pushpins easier to use than thumbtacks?
Yes, pushpins are generally easier to use due to their larger, more graspable heads.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
What is a pushpin?
A pushpin is a small pin with a plastic head, used for attaching items to soft surfaces.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
How does a pushpin differ from a thumbtack in design?
Pushpins have a plastic head, while thumbtacks have a flat metal head.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Can pushpins hold heavier items than thumbtacks?
Yes, pushpins are better suited for heavier items due to their design.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Are thumbtacks less visible than pushpins?
Yes, thumbtacks are less noticeable due to their smaller, flatter heads.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
What is a thumbtack?
A thumbtack is a small, flat-headed pin used for fastening papers to walls or boards.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Are thumbtacks suitable for professional environments?
Yes, their subtle design makes them suitable for professional settings.
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Nov 23, 2023
Do pushpins come in different colors?
Yes, pushpins are often available in various colors and designs.
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Nov 23, 2023
Are pushpins recyclable?
They are partially recyclable, but it depends on local recycling policies.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can thumbtacks damage walls?
Like any sharp object, they can leave small holes, but they are less damaging than nails.
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Nov 23, 2023
Do thumbtacks come in different sizes?
Yes, they are available in various sizes, but are generally small.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can pushpins be used on all types of boards?
They are best used on soft boards like cork or foam.
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Nov 23, 2023
Are pushpins suitable for outdoor use?
They are not ideal for outdoor use as they can deteriorate in weather.
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Nov 23, 2023
How long do pushpins last?
They are durable and can last for many years with proper use.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can thumbtacks rust?
Yes, especially if exposed to moisture or used on outdoor surfaces.
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Nov 23, 2023
Are pushpins safe for children to use?
They can be safe under supervision, but their sharp points pose a risk.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Do thumbtacks leave marks on walls?
They can leave small pinholes in walls.
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Nov 23, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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