device
A piece of mechanical or electronic equipment designed to perform a specific function or task. It can also refer to a technique or method used to achieve a particular result, especially in literature or rhetoric.
Examples
3 of 5I use this handheld device to track my daily steps and heart rate.
I use this handheld device to track my daily steps and heart rate.
The laboratory utilizes a specialized device for measuring precise atmospheric pressure.
The laboratory utilizes a specialized device for measuring precise atmospheric pressure.
Check out this cool device I got for opening stubborn jars.
Check out this cool device I got for opening stubborn jars.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'ICE' at the end of 'devICE' as a solid object (a noun), while 'devISE' (rhymes with 'wise') is an action you do.
Quick Quiz
The author used a clever plot ______ to surprise the readers at the end of the novel.
Correct!
The correct answer is: device
Examples
I use this handheld device to track my daily steps and heart rate.
everydayI use this handheld device to track my daily steps and heart rate.
The laboratory utilizes a specialized device for measuring precise atmospheric pressure.
formalThe laboratory utilizes a specialized device for measuring precise atmospheric pressure.
Check out this cool device I got for opening stubborn jars.
informalCheck out this cool device I got for opening stubborn jars.
The protagonist's internal monologue is a literary device used to reveal her true motivations.
academicThe protagonist's internal monologue is a literary device used to reveal her true motivations.
Our company is launching a new security device to protect corporate data on mobile platforms.
businessOur company is launching a new security device to protect corporate data on mobile platforms.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
left to one's own devices
left to do as one pleases without supervision
rhetorical device
a technique used to persuade or influence an audience
safety device
an equipment intended to prevent accidents
Often Confused With
'Device' is a noun (the object), whereas 'devise' is a verb meaning to plan or invent.
Usage Notes
While 'device' often refers to physical hardware like smartphones, in academic settings it frequently refers to abstract methods such as 'mnemonic devices' or 'plot devices'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use the verb 'devise' (ending in -ise/-ize) when they are trying to refer to the noun 'device' (ending in -ice).
Memory Tip
Think of the 'ICE' at the end of 'devICE' as a solid object (a noun), while 'devISE' (rhymes with 'wise') is an action you do.
Word Origin
From the Old French word 'devis', meaning a plan, design, or desire, which ultimately comes from Latin 'dividere' (to divide).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In the 21st century, the word 'device' has become almost synonymous with personal technology such as smartphones and tablets.
Quick Quiz
The author used a clever plot ______ to surprise the readers at the end of the novel.
Correct!
The correct answer is: device
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
majority
C1The greater number or part of a whole, specifically more than half of a total amount or group. It is often used in political or statistical contexts to describe a group that holds the most power or influence.
method
C1A systematic, logical, and established procedure for accomplishing a task or conducting research. It implies a structured series of steps designed to achieve a specific result or to gain knowledge in a disciplined manner.
occurrence
C1An occurrence refers to an instance or event where something happens or exists. In a broader sense, it can also describe the frequency or prevalence of a particular phenomenon within a specific context or dataset.
percent
C1A mathematical term representing a ratio or proportion out of one hundred. It is used extensively to describe changes, statistics, and probabilities in academic and professional contexts.
percentage
C2A percentage is a rate, number, or amount in each hundred, used to express a proportion or ratio relative to a whole. In academic contexts, it specifically refers to the quantitative measurement of a subset compared to the total population or data set.
periodic
C2In an academic or library context, a periodic refers to a publication that is issued at regular intervals, such as a scholarly journal, magazine, or newsletter. It is characterized by its recurring nature and is often archived in series to track the development of research or news over time.
principle
B2A principle is a fundamental truth, law, or rule that serves as the foundation for a system of belief, behavior, or reasoning. It can also refer to a personal code of conduct that guides how an individual chooses to act in various situations.
requirement
C1A thing that is needed or wanted; a condition that must be met in order to achieve a specific goal or comply with a rule. In formal and academic settings, it often refers to a compulsory qualification or a mandatory standard of performance.
respond
B2To say or write something as a reply to a question, statement, or letter, or to react to something by taking action. In academic contexts, it often refers to how an organism, system, or person reacts to a specific stimulus or event.
responsive
C1Characterized by reacting quickly and positively to suggestions, influences, or stimuli. In technical and academic contexts, it describes a system or organism that adapts efficiently to changing conditions or feedback.
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