configure

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'configure' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you're referring to setting up, arranging, or organizing equipment or systems. For example: "We need to configure the computer settings in order to access the database."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Firstly, edit your project/plugins.sbt and add this line: Next edit your build.sbt to configure the plugin: Finally, make sure your.travis.yml runs the sbt-sonatype-release target: Since Travis is driven from GitHub, we need to indicate in the repo when we want a new release to take place.

The Guardian

There will also be a "minimalist, secure, and elegant web user interface to set up and configure the router", to make it simpler for the average user to alter security settings on the device.

The Guardian - Tech

For a public repo like guardian/membership-frontend, how would you configure the Slack webhook for Prout without publicising the URL?

The Guardian

Dell and Gateway have changed the way computers are sold by allowing customers to configure their own systems, by telephone or over the Internet, and simply shipping them the box.

The Economist

And Apple had to configure the iPod so that it automatically and fluently talks to iTunes, the music application that runs on users' PCs.

The Economist

Indeed, no one is sure how to configure it.

The Economist

Clever software means Baxter is easier for novices to configure and has more common sense than the average robot: if a conveyor belt bringing it objects to pack into boxes slows down, for example, it does too.

The Economist

Hardware makers are already working on other ways to configure a device.

The Economist

On the next attempt to configure the device, they were presented with an unfamiliar screen and a service that required registration to continue using it.

The Economist

Users need to be computer-savvy to configure their connection.

The Economist

It's now simpler to set up and configure than Windows.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical documentation, be specific about which parameters or settings need to be "configured". Provide clear instructions to help users through the process.

Common error

Avoid using "configure" when a simpler word like "use" or "set" would suffice. Overusing technical jargon can make your writing less accessible.

Linguistic Context

The word "configure" primarily functions as a transitive verb. Ludwig shows that it requires a direct object, indicating what is being set up or arranged. For example, "configure the device" or "configure the settings".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

42%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "configure" is a versatile verb used to describe the process of setting up or arranging something, often in a technical context. According to Ludwig AI, the term is grammatically correct and widely used in various sources. Its frequency is "Very common", especially in "News & Media", "Encyclopedias" and "Science" sources. For simpler alternatives, consider using terms like "set up" or "customize". Remember to be specific and clear when using "configure" in technical documentation to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set up

This alternative is a more general term for preparing something for use.

set up parameters

This option focuses specifically on establishing initial settings or values.

customize

This term emphasizes adapting something to personal preferences.

personalize

This option suggests making something specific to an individual.

adapt

This indicates modifying something to suit new conditions or a specific purpose.

tailor

This implies customizing something precisely to meet particular needs.

adjust

This suggests making small changes to improve something's performance.

calibrate

This option focuses on precisely setting or correcting measurements or settings.

program

This implies setting up a device or system to perform specific tasks automatically.

arrange

This alternative focuses on organizing elements into a specific order or structure.

FAQs

How can I use "configure" in a sentence?

You can use "configure" to describe the process of setting up or arranging something. For example, "You need to configure the network settings to connect to the internet."

What's a simple way to say "configure"?

Depending on the context, you could use simpler terms like "set up", "adjust", or "customize". See also: "set up".

Is it better to say "configure" or "set up"?

While both are valid, "configure" often implies a more complex or technical setup process compared to the more general term "set up". The choice depends on the specific context and audience.

What's the difference between "configure" and "customize"?

"Configure" generally means setting up a system or device for operation, while "customize" means adapting it to personal preferences. You might configure a router and then customize its settings to your liking.