The terms "dagger" and "knife" are often used interchangeably, but there are some distinctions that can help differentiate between the two:

1. Design and Purpose: Daggers are typically designed as weapons, with a focus on combat effectiveness. They often have a symmetrical blade, a sharp point, and are optimized for thrusting and stabbing actions. Daggers may have double-edged or single-edged blades. Knives, on the other hand, are more general-purpose tools that can serve a wide range of functions beyond combat. Knives come in various shapes and sizes, including utility knives, kitchen knives, hunting knives, and folding pocket knives.
2. Blade Length: Generally, daggers have shorter blades compared to knives. Daggers typically have blades under 12 inches (30 cm) in length, whereas knives can have longer or shorter blades, depending on their intended use.
3. Historical Context: Historically, daggers have been associated with combat and warfare, often used as a secondary weapon alongside other primary weapons. They were employed in close-quarters combat and for self-defense. Knives, on the other hand, have been used for a wide range of purposes throughout history, including hunting, utility tasks, cooking, and general everyday use.

It's important to note that these distinctions can vary, and there can be overlap between daggers and knives, especially when considering specific designs or cultural variations. The classification of a bladed weapon as a dagger or a knife can sometimes be subjective or context-dependent.