1. Think of a five-letter word that begins and ends with M. Drop the first M and insert an O somewhere in the word to get another word that means the same thing.

2. Think of a compound that names a gadget which might be found in a kitchen drawer. Break the word into its component parts and add an S to each to get two words that are synonyms.

HINTS:
1)
a. The second word can mean a rule in math.
b. Both words contain an X.

2)
a. Both words are used informally.
b. A famous ballet features this object.

Answers:

1. MAXIM - AXIOM
2. NUTCRACKER - NUTS / CRACKERS

Credits:
Both: NPR Weekend Edition Sunday Puzzle
#1: February 1, 2009
       Will Shortz
#2:  January 25, 2009
       Dave Chucan
       Presented by Will Shortz