computer as a whole

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "computer as a whole" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the entirety of a computer system, including all its components and functionalities. Example: "When considering the performance of software, it's important to evaluate the computer as a whole, rather than just focusing on individual parts."

✓ Grammatically correct

General discussions about computer systems

Technical contexts

Recycling

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The operational speed of the CPU primarily determines the speed of the computer as a whole.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The computer as a whole can be viewed as being under the central control of the CPU, with each subsystem as subsidiary components.

Cornell University

Although the electronic part of the machine functioned successfully, the computer as a whole never worked reliably, errors being introduced by the unsatisfactory binary card-reader.

SEP

Determine whether you want to recycle your computer as a whole or some of its components separately.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

McGarrity explained that they're expanding, "the definition of a computer beyond simply an individual computer or a computer system, to computer networks as a whole.

Vice

In order to understand the e-waste system, particularly used computers, as a whole, a field study was done between 2010 and 2011 in ten Mexican cities. Ninety-five diverstakeholdersers were interviewed to uncover factors regarding the decision to waste or trade still-usable computers.

Resources, Conservation and Recycling

But that is not the way for computer science as a whole to advance, Dr. Blum told her Harvard audience.

The New York Times - Science

Network design and protocol are changing at a similar rapid rate to that of computer systems as a whole.

Measurement and Instrumentation Principles

A compiler is software that translates a computer program as a whole into machine code that is saved for subsequent execution whenever desired.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To develop applications that have these requirements, the designer must look beyond the software and hardware and view the computer system as a whole.

Principles of Computer System Design An Introduction

But it was equally apparent today that Mr. Gates's pleasant demeanor did not mean that he would give ground on his position that the company he founded -- and the computer industry as a whole -- would be crippled if Judge Kollar-Kotelly adopthe the states' proposals.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing performance, analyze the "computer as a whole" to identify bottlenecks, considering both hardware and software interactions rather than isolated components.

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on the CPU or RAM when troubleshooting issues; consider how peripherals and external devices affect the "computer as a whole".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "computer as a whole" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It emphasizes considering a computer system in its entirety, Ludwig indicates this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Academia

11%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "computer as a whole" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize a comprehensive view of a computer system. Although relatively rare, as suggested by Ludwig, it appears in diverse sources including news, encyclopedias, and academic texts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, remember to consider all components and their interactions for a complete analysis. You might find alternatives such as "entire computer system" or "holistic computer approach" suitable depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

entire computer system

Emphasizes the complete system including hardware and software, directly replacing "computer as a whole" with more technical terminology.

complete computer system

Similar to 'entire computer system', but highlights the completeness and functionality of all components.

the computer in its entirety

Rephrases the original by placing the emphasis on completeness. This alternative is useful when aiming to emphasize that all aspects of the computer are being considered.

the whole computer

A simpler phrasing, focusing on entirety without additional technical or functional implications. This version is similar, but less formal.

holistic computer approach

Implies a comprehensive method, focusing on interdependencies within the system. The alternative is more suitable when stressing the interaction between all parts of computer.

the full computer

A shorter and more informal way to express the complete computer system.

integrated computer system

Stresses the integration of different parts into a unified system. The alternative is suitable when the aim is to show how all parts work together as one unit.

total computer setup

Focuses on the physical components and configuration of a computer.

computer viewed comprehensively

This alternative shifts the focus to the action of viewing something completely. This can be used in contexts where emphasizing thorough evaluation is key.

overall computer architecture

Concentrates on the structural design and organization of the computer.

FAQs

How can I use "computer as a whole" in a sentence?

You might say, "Evaluating the software requires assessing the "entire computer system", not just individual programs, to understand its impact on the "computer as a whole".

What's an alternative to "computer as a whole"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "complete computer system", "integrated computer system", or "holistic computer approach".

Is it more appropriate to say "computer as a whole" or "entire computer"?

"Computer as a whole" emphasizes a comprehensive perspective, while "entire computer" simply means the complete computer without suggesting a deeper analysis of its interconnectedness.

When should I use "computer as a whole" instead of focusing on specific components?

Use "computer as a whole" when the interaction between components is more relevant than individual performance, especially in system-level analyses or when troubleshooting complex issues.