B1 Collocation Neutro 2 min de leitura

electronic device

Digital equipment

Use this phrase to refer to any battery-powered tech in professional or travel settings.

Em 15 segundos

  • Any tech tool like a phone, tablet, or laptop.
  • Commonly used in airports, offices, and safety instructions.
  • A polite way to group all your gadgets together.

Significado

An 'electronic device' is any gadget that uses electricity to work, like your phone, laptop, or tablet. It is the general name for the tech tools you carry in your bag every day.

Exemplos-chave

3 de 6
1

Going through airport security

Please take all electronic devices out of your carry-on bag.

Please take all electronic devices out of your carry-on bag.

👔
2

Setting rules for a family dinner

We have a rule: no electronic devices at the table.

We have a rule: no electronic devices at the table.

🤝
3

A business meeting about office upgrades

The company is providing new electronic devices for all remote staff.

The company is providing new electronic devices for all remote staff.

💼
🌍

Contexto cultural

This phrase exploded in usage during the late 20th century as personal technology became common. It is now the standard term used by the FAA and other global transport authorities for safety announcements. Interestingly, while 'gadget' feels fun and playful, 'electronic device' feels functional and serious.

💡

The 'S' Factor

We almost always use this in the plural (`electronic devices`) because most people carry more than one gadget these days.

⚠️

Don't confuse with 'Electric'

An 'electric' device is often something simple like a lamp. An 'electronic' device usually has a screen or a 'brain' (microchip).

Em 15 segundos

  • Any tech tool like a phone, tablet, or laptop.
  • Commonly used in airports, offices, and safety instructions.
  • A polite way to group all your gadgets together.

What It Means

An electronic device is a broad term for hardware. It covers anything with a circuit board. Think of your smartphone, your Kindle, or even your smartwatch. If it needs a battery or a plug, it is likely an electronic device. It is a very handy phrase. It groups all your gadgets into one category.

How To Use It

You use this phrase when you are talking about technology in general. You do not need to list every item. Instead of saying 'my phone and my laptop,' just say electronic devices. It works as a noun. You can own them, use them, or turn them off. It is common to hear this in plural form.

When To Use It

Use this when you are traveling. You will hear it at airport security. They often ask you to remove electronic devices from your bag. Use it at work when discussing office equipment. It is also great for setting rules at home. You might tell your kids, 'No electronic devices at the dinner table!' It sounds firm but clear.

When NOT To Use It

Do not use this for simple tools. A hammer is not an electronic device. A manual toothbrush is not one either. If it does not use power, do not use this term. Also, do not use it for large appliances usually. We call a fridge an 'appliance,' not a 'device.' Using it for a toaster might sound a bit too robotic or scientific.

Cultural Background

In the West, we are obsessed with our gadgets. We often talk about 'screen time' or 'digital detox.' This phrase became very popular with the rise of the iPhone. Before then, we just said 'gadgets' or 'machines.' Now, it is part of our legal and safety language. It is the standard term used in manuals and safety briefings.

Common Variations

You might hear people say mobile device for phones. Some people just say electronics. In casual talk, many people use the word gadgets. However, electronic device remains the most professional and clear version. It is the 'safe' choice for any situation.

Notas de uso

This phrase is neutral and safe for almost any context. It is the 'correct' term for official forms, signs, and professional speech, but it is not too stiff for a casual conversation about your new gear.

💡

The 'S' Factor

We almost always use this in the plural (`electronic devices`) because most people carry more than one gadget these days.

⚠️

Don't confuse with 'Electric'

An 'electric' device is often something simple like a lamp. An 'electronic' device usually has a screen or a 'brain' (microchip).

💬

Screen Time

In the US and UK, parents often say 'device time' to refer to the hours kids spend on iPads or gaming consoles.

Exemplos

6
#1 Going through airport security
👔

Please take all electronic devices out of your carry-on bag.

Please take all electronic devices out of your carry-on bag.

This is the most common place you will hear this specific phrase.

#2 Setting rules for a family dinner
🤝

We have a rule: no electronic devices at the table.

We have a rule: no electronic devices at the table.

Used here to include phones, tablets, and gaming consoles.

#3 A business meeting about office upgrades
💼

The company is providing new electronic devices for all remote staff.

The company is providing new electronic devices for all remote staff.

Refers to laptops and tablets provided by the employer.

#4 Texting a friend about a lost bag
😊

I'm so stressed, all my electronic devices were in that backpack!

I'm so stressed, all my electronic devices were in that backpack!

A quick way to say phone, charger, and laptop in one go.

#5 A humorous complaint about modern life
😄

My cat thinks every electronic device I own is actually a bed.

My cat thinks every electronic device I own is actually a bed.

Funny observation about cats sitting on warm laptops.

#6 Expressing sadness over a broken phone
💭

It's just an electronic device, but all my photos were on it.

It's just an electronic device, but all my photos were on it.

Used to minimize the object while highlighting the sentimental value of the data.

Teste-se

Choose the best word to complete the sentence.

The flight attendant asked us to switch off our ___ before takeoff.

✓ Correto! ✗ Quase. Resposta certa: electronic devices

In aviation, 'electronic devices' is the standard term for phones and tablets.

Identify the item that is NOT an electronic device.

Which of these is NOT an ___?

✓ Correto! ✗ Quase. Resposta certa: Wooden spoon

A wooden spoon does not use electricity or circuits.

🎉 Pontuação: /2

Recursos visuais

Formality of Tech Terms

Informal

Used with friends

Gadgets

Neutral

Everyday clear English

Electronic device

Formal

Legal or technical

Telecommunications equipment

Where to use 'Electronic Device'

Electronic Device
✈️

Airport Security

Remove devices from bag

🏫

School Classroom

Put your devices away

💻

Tech Support

Restart the device

📄

Insurance Claim

List of stolen devices

Perguntas frequentes

12 perguntas

Technically yes, but we usually call it an 'appliance.' Use electronic device for things you interact with for data or media.

Yes, electronics is a common shortcut. For example, 'I need to buy some new electronics' is very natural.

Gadget is more informal and often implies something small or cool. Electronic device is more formal and general.

It is a legal term that covers everything from a tiny iPod to a large gaming laptop without needing a long list.

No, a battery is a 'component' or a 'power source.' It helps the device work but isn't the device itself.

Usually no. Even though cars have computers, we just call them 'vehicles.' You might say the car has electronic components though.

The smartphone is the most common example people think of when they hear this phrase.

Yes, it is used globally in all English-speaking countries with the same meaning.

Just add an 's' to 'device' to get electronic devices.

Yes, e-readers are a perfect example of an electronic device.

It might sound a bit formal. In a text, you'd likely just say 'my phone' or 'my tech.'

Yes, especially smartwatches like the Apple Watch are frequently called wearable electronic devices.

Frases relacionadas

Mobile device

A portable electronic device like a phone or tablet.

High-tech gadgets

Advanced and often expensive electronic items.

Consumer electronics

Electronic equipment intended for everyday use by people.

Smart device

An electronic device that connects to the internet.

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