<p>Graphene has been shown to significantly enhance the mechanical properties and wear resistance of ceramic tools, thereby endowing them with superior cutting performance. However, as a two-dimensional carbon nanomaterial, the anisotropic nature of graphene can induce varying physical and mechanical properties in ceramic composites, which in turn can result in differing cutting performance and anti-friction and wear-resistant properties for graphene-reinforced ceramic tools. To elucidate the distinct cutting performances and wear characteristics influenced by graphene anisotropy, this study fabricates two types of graphene-reinforced ceramic tools with different graphene orientation distributions (perpendicular and parallel to the hot-pressing axis). The cutting performances and wear characteristics of these tools are then evaluated through continuous turning experiments on 40Cr hardened steel. It has been found that superior cutting performance is achieved when the orientation distribution of graphene in ceramic tools is perpendicular to the hot-pressing axis. Furthermore, this orientation is also optimal for achieving superior wear resistance in graphene-reinforced ceramic tools. The findings from this study could provide valuable insights for the design and fabrication of graphene-reinforced ceramic tools.</p>