C1 noun Formal

apparatus

/ˌæp.əˈreɪ.təs/

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 5
1

The 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.

2

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.

3

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.

Word Family

Noun
apparatus
Adjective
apparative
Related
preparation
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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

1

The gym's new exercise apparatus allows for a full-body workout in just twenty minutes.

everyday

The gym's new exercise apparatus allows for a full-body workout in just twenty minutes.

2

The whole state apparatus was mobilized to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.

formal

The whole state apparatus was mobilized to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.

3

I've got this fancy coffee-making apparatus, but I still can't make a decent espresso.

informal

I've got this fancy coffee-making apparatus, but I still can't make a decent espresso.

4

The researchers set up a sophisticated apparatus to measure the rate of chemical decomposition.

academic

The researchers set up a sophisticated apparatus to measure the rate of chemical decomposition.

5

We need to streamline our administrative apparatus to reduce overhead costs this quarter.

business

We need to streamline our administrative apparatus to reduce overhead costs this quarter.

Word Family

Noun
apparatus
Adjective
apparative
Related
preparation

Common Collocations

state apparatus state apparatus (government machinery)
breathing apparatus breathing apparatus
scientific apparatus scientific apparatus
bureaucratic apparatus bureaucratic apparatus
laboratory apparatus laboratory apparatus

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

apparatus vs apparel

Apparel refers specifically to clothing or attire, whereas apparatus refers to equipment or systems.

apparatus vs appliance

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.

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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

Can be used as an uncountable noun (mass noun) or a countable noun. Plural forms: apparatuses or apparatus. Often followed by 'for' + -ing (e.g., apparatus for measuring).
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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

Related Words

exarchness

C1

The state or quality of being an exarch, specifically referring to the authoritative status or regional jurisdiction of a deputy ruler or high-ranking ecclesiastical official. It describes the inherent power and dignity associated with governing a province or diocese on behalf of a higher sovereign.

perihumer

C1

A technical term referring to the anatomical region or specific tissue structures immediately surrounding the humerus bone in the upper arm. It is primarily used in orthopedic medicine and physical therapy to describe areas of concern during surgery, injury assessment, or prosthetic fitting.

microfluship

C1

A precise, automated release of a minimal amount of fluid or data used to clear a micro-system or reset high-sensitivity sensors. It is typically employed in microfluidic engineering and advanced computing to prevent sediment buildup or signal noise.

antiponness

C1

The quality or state of being opposed to or averse to hard labor, toil, or physical exertion. It describes a deep-seated resistance to performing arduous tasks, often found in philosophical or psychological discussions about the nature of work.

forenumerary

C1

Describes something that pertains to an initial or preliminary counting or listing that occurs before the main enumeration. It is typically used in administrative, historical, or technical contexts to refer to items or individuals recorded ahead of a final official tally.

detangite

C1

To separate components, strands, or ideas that have become intricately intertwined or knotted. It is most frequently used in formal or technical contexts to describe the process of unravelling a complex situation, data set, or physical structure.

unitangine

C1

Describing a process or system that operates through a single point of contact or a singular, unbranching focus. It is often used in technical or analytical contexts to denote a direct and isolated interaction between two entities.

enjectment

C1

Ejectment is a legal action or remedy brought by a person who claims title to real property to recover possession of that property. It is primarily used to remove a tenant or squatter who is wrongfully occupying the land and to settle disputes regarding the rightful owner's title.

invertite

C1

Describing something that has been reversed in position, order, or nature, or turned upside down. It is a highly specialized or archaic term used primarily in technical, historical, or biological contexts to denote a state of inversion.

malteghood

C1

Describing a state marked by deep-seated communal loyalty and historical resilience. It refers to qualities or behaviors that prioritize the preservation of a group's collective identity and shared fortitude above individual interests.

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