an array of knobs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an array of knobs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a collection or variety of knobs, often in the context of equipment, instruments, or controls. Example: "The control panel featured an array of knobs, each serving a different function for the machine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Such an array of knobs and buttons to experient with!

The Guardian - Music

Live, Neon Indian is a four-piece outfit, which addressed that shapelessness problem somewhat: Mr. Palomo at center stage, a keyboard on one side, and an array of knobs and a laptop on the other; Ronald Geirhart on guitar; Leanne Macomber on keyboard; and Jason Faries on the drums.

The New York Times - Arts

The walls are lined with bulky green and silver machinery, an array of knobs with buttons and switches covering every metallic surface.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

By The New Yorker December 7, 2011 The Swarmatron, in the center of the room, had a pitch ribbon and a swarm ribbon, and an array of unlabelled knobs and switches, which Brian began manipulating in a way that produced something that your own first cousin once removed might recognize as music.

The New Yorker

The Swarmatron, in the center of the room, had a pitch ribbon and a swarm ribbon, and an array of unlabelled knobs and switches, which Brian began manipulating in a way that produced something that your own first cousin once removed might recognize as music.

The New Yorker

If you've spent any time in a hospital, you've likely noticed that a lot of the equipment around looks pretty complicated, with an array of buttons, knobs, and screens.

TechCrunch

The studio's sixty-four-channel professional mixing board, with its vast array of knobs and lights, which was installed when Roc the Mic Studios was constructed, only five years ago, sat idle, a relic of another age.

The New Yorker

Cadillac's newest digital-control suite -- currently in its sporty CTS model and slated for inclusion in all models beginning in 2004 -- still features the old cockpit-style array of knobs and buttons.

The New York Times - Magazine

Momo — whose name is an amalgam of "Moretti" and "Monza," a town north of Milan near a well-known racetrack — expanded to make an array of racing products, including helmets, shift knobs, road wheels, fireproof driving suits, gloves and shoes, all carrying the familiar red-and-yellow label.

The New York Times

Wasps have an array of skills.

Independent

John has an array of sweatshirts.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical equipment, use "an array of knobs" to convey a sense of complexity and manual control, especially where precise adjustments are important.

Common error

Avoid using "an array of knobs" when simpler language like "many controls" would suffice, especially in non-technical contexts. Always prioritize clarity for your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an array of knobs" functions as a noun phrase, describing a collection of control elements. Ludwig examples show its usage in describing physical interfaces of electronic equipment, such as keyboards, and mixing boards.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an array of knobs" is a noun phrase used to vividly describe a collection of control elements, commonly found in technical or musical equipment. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct, though relatively rare in usage. While its register is neutral to technical, it often appears in news, science, and wiki contexts. When using the phrase, consider its specific descriptive power and technical implication. Alternatives such as "a collection of dials" or "a range of controls" may be appropriate depending on the desired level of specificity and the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a collection of dials

Replaces "knobs" with "dials", emphasizing a specific type of rotating control.

a range of controls

Uses "controls" as a broader term, encompassing various types of adjustment mechanisms.

a selection of switches

Focuses on switches instead of knobs, highlighting a different type of control.

a multitude of buttons

Shifts the focus to "buttons", another common type of control mechanism.

a variety of settings

Replaces the physical controls with the concept of adjustable "settings".

an assortment of regulators

Uses "regulators", which is a more technical term for controlling devices.

a complex configuration of controls

Emphasizes the complexity and arrangement of the controls.

a diverse set of parameters

Focuses on the adjustable parameters rather than the physical knobs themselves.

several adjustment mechanisms

Uses a more general term to describe the means of making adjustments.

various operational features

Highlights the functional aspects that are controlled by the knobs.

FAQs

How can I use "an array of knobs" in a sentence?

You can use "an array of knobs" to describe a complex control panel or instrument, such as: "The vintage synthesizer featured "an array of knobs" for fine-tuning the sound".

What are some alternatives to "an array of knobs"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a collection of dials", "a range of controls", or "a selection of switches".

Is it better to say "an array of knobs and buttons" or "a variety of controls"?

"An array of knobs and buttons" is more specific and descriptive, while "a variety of controls" is more general. Choose the phrase that best fits the level of detail required for your audience.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an array of knobs"?

This phrase is suitable when describing equipment or devices with numerous manual controls, often in technical, musical, or engineering contexts, where the specific adjustments made by the knobs are relevant.