The term 'USE A CLEAVER' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: CHOP (4 letters) and RIVE (4 letters). A cleaver is a large knife used for chopping and slicing food. It is also sometimes used to cut through bones. The term 'CHOP' refers to the act of cutting something into small pieces, while 'RIVE' means to split or tear something apart. Therefore, the phrase 'USE A CLEAVER' implies that one should use a cleaver to CHOP and/or RIVE food items.