devices

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devices" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to electronic gadgets or tools, often in the context of technology or equipment. Example: "The new smartphones and tablets are among the most popular devices on the market today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Security alerts involving improvised explosive devices have become almost a weekly occurence in Derry during the past few months as dissident republicans step up their armed actions in the city.

The Guardian

This week, the households were asked to take a part in a "digital detox" where they would use no digital devices for two hours on a week day and on a Saturday or Sunday.

The Guardian

The rhetorical devices his speechwriters love to use have been rejected by him in favour of sticking with this, his original wording.

The Guardian - Opinion

He also pointed to a proposal in the House "to make sure government agencies don't turn cell phones of Americans into tracking devices" as another target for NSA reformers.

The Guardian

Libin is bullish on the potential of these devices, without shirking some of their current challenges.

The Guardian - Tech

Victoria Jaye, head of TV content for the BBC iPlayer, said on a BBC blog there had been a "significant surge in BBC iPlayer usage, as people all over the country un-wrap new devices and take the opportunity to enjoy our terrific range of programmes, at a time that suits them".

The Guardian

"The figures clearly show that people are consuming the news on their mobile devices, phones in particular, but I don't see print disappearing completely".

The Guardian

Customers will be able to try on devices in store, but will be directed to kiosks or the Apple website to order their smartwatch.

The Guardian - Tech

Along with the "one Windows for all devices" idea, Microsoft is pushing what it calls "universal Windows apps", which is the new name for apps downloaded from the Windows Store.

The Guardian - Tech

That's platform thinking: 200m devices far outnumbers RIM's 70 million subscribers worldwide for BlackBerry Messenger.

The Guardian - Tech

But on iOS 5 (available across those 200m devices, remember) you just swipe downwards from the menu bar and you get a view on everything that's changed, with granular detail including what emails have come in (so you can go to them individually) or what events there are to deal with and so on.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "devices" when referring to multiple gadgets or pieces of equipment performing specific functions; avoid using it for abstract concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "devices" as a generic term when more specific nouns like "gadgets", "tools", or "instruments" would provide better clarity. Be precise to enhance understanding.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "devices" is as a plural noun. It refers to multiple objects or pieces of equipment designed for a specific purpose. This aligns with Ludwig examples which show "devices" used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Tech

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Lifestyle

7%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "devices" functions as a plural noun commonly used to refer to various tools or equipment, frequently in technological contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse sources, including news media and technical publications. When writing, remember to provide context to specify the type of "devices" you're referencing to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "gadgets", "instruments", and "tools", depending on the specific context. The term holds a neutral register and is very commonly used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

electronic equipment

Focuses specifically on equipment that is electronic in nature.

technical gadgets

Emphasizes the technical and often innovative aspect of the devices.

digital tools

Highlights the utility of devices as tools, particularly in digital contexts.

mobile units

Specifically refers to devices that are designed to be portable.

technological instruments

Emphasizes the role of devices as instruments of technology.

mechanical apparatuses

Highlights the mechanical nature, often used in more formal or technical contexts.

computing hardware

Refers to the physical components used in computing.

portable electronics

Emphasizes both the portability and electronic nature.

smart systems

Highlights the intelligent or automated aspect of the devices.

communication tools

Focuses on the use of devices for communication purposes.

FAQs

How can I use "devices" in a sentence?

You can use "devices" to refer to various tools or equipment designed for specific functions. For example: "The new smartphones and tablets are among the most popular "devices" on the market today."

What are some alternatives to the word "devices"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "gadgets", "instruments", or "tools" instead of "devices".

Is there a difference between "device" and "devices"?

"Device" is singular, referring to a single item, while "devices" is plural, referring to multiple items. For example, "I have a device" versus "I have multiple "devices"".

How do I choose between "devices" and "equipment"?

"Devices" typically refer to individual, often electronic, items with specific functions. "Equipment" is a broader term that can include various items used for a particular purpose. You might say "electronic devices" but "office equipment".