automation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "automation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of making a task or process faster and easier by using technology. For example, "The company invested in automation to reduce the amount of time it took to complete customer orders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or rather, where it has made financial sense to automate there has been substantial automation.

The Economist

Yet over time, as best practices are worked out and then codified, it becomes easier to break production down into routine components, then automate those components as technology allows.If, that is, automation makes sense.

The Economist

The Galaxy-run Newspoll will not conduct live telephone interviews with participants but will instead adopt the less expensive method of polling using automation – known as "robopolling" – as well as online surveys.

The Guardian

It recently released media streaming and internet of things products for home automation, but has yet to commit to a European or US launch.

The Guardian - Tech

iPhone Workflow (£1.99) It's hard to describe Workflow – even its App Store listing's "personal automation tool" phrase doesn't quite get its potential usefulness across.

The Guardian - Tech

Services like iView, News 24 and digital radio stations were previously funded by efficiencies the ABC found internally through automation and staff cuts.

The Guardian

This should include help those who are negatively affected by innovation, for example people whose jobs are made redundant by automation – including through opportunities for retraining and upskilling," it states.

The Guardian - Tech

But the stories we might tell in which capital becomes a dominant, potentially malign force are those in which many of the world's workers can only hold off the automation of their work by accepting ever lower levels of compensation.

The Economist

At least, that was so until a couple of months ago when ABB, a power and automation group based in Switzerland, unveiled a breaker that was both fast and efficient enough to provide a high-voltage DC grid with proper protection.

The Economist

Meanwhile, innovation in automation makes the prospect of replacing low-skilled workers with robots increasingly attractive.

The Economist

As such, it was expected to be more economical, need a smaller crew, require less maintenance and allow improved automation of the various onboard systems.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of "automation" on employment, provide specific examples of industries or job roles that have been affected to add clarity and credibility to your argument.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent to which "automation" will replace human labor. While automation is transforming many industries, it often complements rather than completely replaces human workers. Overstating its effects can lead to inaccurate and alarmist conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "automation" is as a noun, referring to the process or result of making something automatic. Ludwig examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, as noted by Ludwig AI, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "automation" is a versatile noun referring to the process of making systems self-operating. Ludwig AI indicates that "automation" is grammatically correct and widely used across different contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific discussions. While beneficial for efficiency, it also has implications for employment, necessitating adaptation and retraining. When writing about "automation", be specific about its impact and avoid overstating its effects. Consider alternative terms like "automatic processes" or "mechanized systems" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

automatic processes

Focuses on the state of being automatic rather than the act of making something automatic.

mechanized systems

Highlights the use of machinery in achieving automation.

computerized control

Emphasizes the role of computers in automation.

self-operating technology

Focuses on the self-governing aspect of automated systems.

hands-free operation

Highlights the reduction of human intervention through automation.

lights-out manufacturing

Describes a fully automated manufacturing process requiring no human presence.

autonomous workflows

Focuses on the independent and self-directed nature of automated workflows.

digital transformation

Encompasses a broader shift towards integrating digital technology, often including automation.

process optimization

Highlights the goal of making processes more efficient, often achieved through automation.

streamlined operations

Emphasizes the efficiency and simplification resulting from automation.

FAQs

How can I use "automation" in a sentence?

You can use "automation" to describe the process of making something automatic or self-operating. For example, "The factory implemented "automation" to increase efficiency."

What is the difference between "automation" and "mechanization"?

"Mechanization" refers to using machines to assist human labor, while "automation" involves self-operating machines that can perform tasks without human intervention. Automation is thus a more advanced form of mechanization.

What are some synonyms for "automation"?

Synonyms for "automation" include "mechanization", "computerization", and "robotics". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How does "automation" affect employment?

"Automation" can lead to job displacement in some sectors while creating new opportunities in others, such as roles related to designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems. Retraining and upskilling are crucial for adapting to these changes.