A1 noun Neutral #2,705 most common

mechanics

/məˈkænɪks/

Mechanics refers to the practical way that something works or is done. It can also mean the study of how objects move when forces act on them.

Examples

3 of 5
1

I need to understand the mechanics of how this toy moves.

I need to understand the mechanics of how this toy moves.

2

The document outlines the mechanics of the new application process.

The document outlines the mechanics of the new application process.

3

Don't worry about the mechanics of the game yet; just play!

Don't worry about the mechanics of the game yet; just play!

Word Family

Noun
mechanics
Verb
mechanize
Adverb
mechanically
Adjective
mechanical
Related
mechanic
💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'mechanics' of a clock; it is the gears and springs working together to move the hands.

Quick Quiz

The ______ of the new system are quite simple to learn.

Correct!

The correct answer is: mechanics

Examples

1

I need to understand the mechanics of how this toy moves.

everyday

I need to understand the mechanics of how this toy moves.

2

The document outlines the mechanics of the new application process.

formal

The document outlines the mechanics of the new application process.

3

Don't worry about the mechanics of the game yet; just play!

informal

Don't worry about the mechanics of the game yet; just play!

4

In physics class, we study the mechanics of motion and gravity.

academic

In physics class, we study the mechanics of motion and gravity.

5

We should meet to discuss the mechanics of the upcoming merger.

business

We should meet to discuss the mechanics of the upcoming merger.

Word Family

Noun
mechanics
Verb
mechanize
Adverb
mechanically
Adjective
mechanical
Related
mechanic

Common Collocations

quantum mechanics quantum mechanics
game mechanics game mechanics
basic mechanics basic mechanics
the mechanics of writing the mechanics of writing
fluid mechanics fluid mechanics

Common Phrases

the mechanics of something

the mechanics of something

body mechanics

body mechanics

structural mechanics

structural mechanics

Often Confused With

mechanics vs mechanic

A mechanic is a person who fixes machines, while mechanics is the branch of science or the way something works.

📝

Usage Notes

Use 'mechanics' as a singular noun when referring to a field of study (e.g., Mechanics is difficult), but as a plural noun when referring to the details of how something works.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use the singular 'mechanic' when they actually mean 'mechanics' (the system/process).

💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'mechanics' of a clock; it is the gears and springs working together to move the hands.

📖

Word Origin

From the Greek 'mekhanikos', meaning 'pertaining to machines'.

Grammar Patterns

Uncountable when referring to a branch of physics Plural when referring to the technical aspects of a process Often followed by the preposition 'of'
🌍

Cultural Context

In American English, 'mechanics' is often associated with automotive repair shops, though the academic meaning is standard globally.

Quick Quiz

The ______ of the new system are quite simple to learn.

Correct!

The correct answer is: mechanics

Related Words

appreciation

C2

A full understanding of a situation or the quality of something, often involving sensitive awareness or aesthetic judgment. It also refers to a formal expression of gratitude or a literal increase in the value of an asset over time.

sit

A1

To rest your body on your bottom with your back upright, typically on a chair or the floor. It describes both the action of moving into this position and the state of being in it.

stand

A1

To be in an upright position supported by one's feet rather than sitting or lying down. It also refers to the physical location of an object or a person's particular opinion on a subject.

pay

A1

To give money to someone in exchange for goods, services, or to settle a debt. It can also mean to give something non-monetary, such as attention or a compliment.

meet

A1

To come together with someone at a specific place and time, or to be introduced to someone for the first time. It can also mean to satisfy a requirement, standard, or need.

continue

A1

To keep doing something or to stay in the same state without stopping. It can also mean to start an activity again after a short break.

set

A1

To put or place something in a specific position or location. It also means to adjust or prepare something so that it is ready for use, such as a clock or a table.

learn

A1

To gain knowledge, understanding, or a skill by studying, practicing, or being taught. It refers to the process of acquiring information through experience or education.

lead

A1

To go in front of a group of people to show them the way to a place. It also means to be in control of a group, a team, or an activity.

understand

A1

To know the meaning of what someone is saying or how something works. It involves grasping an idea, a language, or a situation clearly in your mind.

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