apparatus
A complex structure of a particular organization or system, or the technical equipment or machinery needed for a particular activity or purpose. It is frequently used to describe the functioning components of government or a set of tools used in scientific experiments.
Examples
3 of 5The gym's new exercise apparatus allows for a full-body workout in just twenty minutes.
The gym's new exercise apparatus allows for a full-body workout in just twenty minutes.
The whole state apparatus was mobilized to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.
The whole state apparatus was mobilized to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.
I've got this fancy coffee-making apparatus, but I still can't make a decent espresso.
I've got this fancy coffee-making apparatus, but I still can't make a decent espresso.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'apparatus' as the 'parts' (appa-) that 'ratify' (-ratus) how a system or machine works.
Quick Quiz
The firemen were equipped with self-contained breathing _______ to enter the smoke-filled building.
Correct!
The correct answer is: apparatus
Examples
The gym's new exercise apparatus allows for a full-body workout in just twenty minutes.
everydayThe gym's new exercise apparatus allows for a full-body workout in just twenty minutes.
The whole state apparatus was mobilized to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.
formalThe whole state apparatus was mobilized to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.
I've got this fancy coffee-making apparatus, but I still can't make a decent espresso.
informalI've got this fancy coffee-making apparatus, but I still can't make a decent espresso.
The researchers set up a sophisticated apparatus to measure the rate of chemical decomposition.
academicThe researchers set up a sophisticated apparatus to measure the rate of chemical decomposition.
We need to streamline our administrative apparatus to reduce overhead costs this quarter.
businessWe need to streamline our administrative apparatus to reduce overhead costs this quarter.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
ideological state apparatus
ideological state apparatus (sociological term)
sensory apparatus
sensory apparatus (biological system)
critical apparatus
critical apparatus (notes in a literary text)
Often Confused With
Apparel refers specifically to clothing or attire, whereas apparatus refers to equipment or systems.
An appliance is usually a single domestic device (like a toaster), while an apparatus is often a more complex set of tools or a system.
Usage Notes
Use 'apparatus' when describing a collective group of tools working together or a complex organizational system. In scientific contexts, it is usually singular even if it consists of several pieces of equipment.
Common Mistakes
Learners often try to use 'apparati' as the plural; while technically a Latin plural, 'apparatuses' or simply 'apparatus' is much more common and accepted in modern English.
Memory Tip
Think of 'apparatus' as the 'parts' (appa-) that 'ratify' (-ratus) how a system or machine works.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'apparatus', meaning 'preparation' or 'equipment', from the verb 'apparare' (to make ready).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
The term is significant in Marxist and sociological theory, specifically 'State Apparatus,' referring to the institutions through which a state exerts power.
Quick Quiz
The firemen were equipped with self-contained breathing _______ to enter the smoke-filled building.
Correct!
The correct answer is: apparatus
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