Some pliers grip, some cut, some do both; others adjust to grasp different-size objects. Those shown below are for gripping; they may have a cutter near the pivot point.
Taking their names from the position of their cutting edges (side, end), these pliers cut wire or small pieces of thin metal like a hanging garment bag, strip casings from wire, cut tile, and cut or pull small nails and brads.
These pliers can substitute for clamps. Place jaws around object, turn the adjusting knob, and close the handles until they lock. Use release lever or pull handles open to unclamp..
Long-nose pliers hold small items for assembly, or reach into restricted areas. Needle-nose pliers, similar to but smaller than long-nose ones, are handy for eyeglass and jewelry repairs.
Slip-joint pliers are highly versatile. Their jaws have both flat and curved areas to grip objects of different shapes. The pivot can be adjusted (slipped) for narrow or wide jaw capacities.