This is an illustration of what I was talking about with people putting different interpretations on what may or may not be facts. Confusion results, not least amongst those who bandy these statements about. In the example above, the only feasible option is A - a spade. B is clearly wrong because a spade and a shovel are two distinctly different tools. A spade is used primarily to cut into and loosen earth etc whereas a shovel is used to scoop up and move stuff- hence the upturned edges to hold the soil in place. If Charles has been using a shovel for the purpose for which a spade is more appropriate, it is little wonder he feels calling it a f*****g shovel is a valid option. C is also not an appropriate option because whilst a spade can be used to transport soil, that is not it's primary function and if used for that function, the user will find that not much soil can be transported on a spade and that much of what was placed on the spade initially is likely not to be still on the spade when you reach the intended transportation destination.
My message to Charles is that you are in a hole, so put your spade down and stop digging. Pick your shovel up and move the soil to build a ramp to help you get out of the hole. Then when you are out of the hole, get back on topic and engage in some sensible and constructive debate on what is a very important subject.