a cordless

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cordless" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a device or tool that operates without a physical cord or wire, typically powered by batteries. Example: "I just bought a cordless vacuum cleaner, and it's so much easier to use than my old one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a cordless.

The New Yorker

We got a cordless saw.

The New York Times

Or a cordless.

The New York Times

Someone handed me a cordless phone.

The New Yorker

This makes a cordless phone essentially mandatory.

The New York Times - Tech

Use a cordless screwdriver or drill to save your sanity.

The New York Times

Then she wades into the audience with a cordless microphone.

The New Yorker

Spartz took the stage, wearing a cordless microphone.

The New Yorker

Back then, I'd have killed for a cordless circular saw.

The New York Times

It comes with a cordless mouse and keyboard.

The New York Times - Tech

On one hip, Mitchell carries a cordless phone.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a cordless" with specific features to highlight the benefits, such as "a cordless drill with extended battery life" to show convenience and efficiency.

Common error

Don't assume that "a cordless" automatically implies high power or unlimited runtime. Clarify battery life and performance to avoid misleading readers. For example, "a cordless vacuum cleaner that runs for 30 minutes" is more informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cordless" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, serving to specify an object powered without a physical cord.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a cordless" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase. Ludwig confirms its validity, primarily used in contexts such as News & Media and Science. It serves to describe devices that operate without physical cords, highlighting their mobility and convenience. While widely accepted, it's important to provide specific details about battery life and performance to avoid potential misunderstandings. Alternatives like "a wireless" or "a battery-powered" can be used depending on the specific feature you want to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wireless

Focuses on the wireless technology enabling the cordless function.

a battery-powered

Emphasizes the source of power that eliminates the need for a cord.

a portable

Highlights the ability to be easily carried or moved around.

a self-powered

Implies the device has its own internal power source.

an unattached

Focuses on the lack of physical connection to a power source.

a detached

Similar to unattached, highlighting separation from a cord.

a free-standing

Suggests independence and lack of reliance on external support or connection.

a mobile

Focuses on the ability to move freely without being tethered.

an autonomous

Implies the device can operate independently without needing external power or connections.

a standalone

Highlights the capability of functioning independently, without requiring a wired connection.

FAQs

How can I use "a cordless" in a sentence?

Use "a cordless" before a noun to describe an item that operates without a cord, such as "a cordless drill" or "a cordless phone". For example, "I prefer "a cordless vacuum" because it's easier to maneuver."

What are some alternatives to saying "a cordless"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a wireless", "a battery-powered", or "a portable" to describe a device that operates without a physical cord.

What's the difference between "a cordless" and "a wireless" device?

"A cordless" device specifically indicates the absence of a power cord, usually running on batteries. "A wireless" device communicates without wires, often via radio waves or Bluetooth, but might still need a power cord. A wireless mouse, for instance, is wireless but may require batteries.

Is it redundant to say "a cordless wireless" device?

Yes, it can be redundant. If a device is "wireless", it already implies a lack of physical connection for communication. Specifying "a cordless wireless" device is usually unnecessary unless you want to emphasize the absence of both communication and power cords.