electric current

USAGE SUMMARY

"electric current" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It typically refers to the flow of electrons through a conductor, like a wire. For example, "The electric current was not flowing correctly, causing the lamp to flicker."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

See also electric current.

Encyclopedia Britannica

See electric current.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Electric circuit, path for transmitting electric current.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Moving charges represent an electric current.

Encyclopedia Britannica

An electric current flows through the pore.

The New York Times - Health

An electric current seems to connect them.

The New Yorker

No moving electrons means no electric current.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The module regulates electric current to the spark plugs.

The New York Times

The outputs (electric current, voltage, power etc).

Journal of Alloys and Compounds

The magnetic flux is analogous to the electric current.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Electric current generates an accompanying magnetic field, as in electromagnets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "electric current", specify the type (AC or DC) and magnitude (amperes) for clarity, especially in technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "electric current" and voltage interchangeably. Current refers to the flow of charge, measured in amperes, while voltage is the electrical potential difference, measured in volts. They are related but distinct concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "electric current" functions primarily as a noun, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and utility in diverse contexts. It commonly identifies a physical phenomenon related to the flow of electrical charge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "electric current" is a grammatically sound and very common noun phrase used to describe the flow of electric charge. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread acceptance across various domains. Its primary function is descriptive, often appearing in formal and scientific registers, with high frequency in science, news, and encyclopedic contexts. Remember to distinguish it from voltage and specify its type and magnitude for clarity. The term is supported by authoritative sources like the Encyclopedia Britannica and The New York Times, ensuring its reliability and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

current of electricity

Reverses the order of words while maintaining the core meaning.

flow of electricity

Focuses on the movement aspect of electricity rather than the quantified measure.

electrical flow

Similar to "flow of electricity", but more concise.

electricity flow

A simple rephrasing, prioritizing brevity.

electron flow

Highlights the movement of electrons as the basis of electric current.

circuit current

Emphasizes the current within a closed circuit.

electrical discharge

Describes a release of accumulated electricity, often sudden.

amperage

Refers specifically to the magnitude of electric current, measured in amperes.

electrical conductivity

Describes the ability of a material to allow electric current to flow.

movement of charge

A more general term, encompassing any movement of electrical charge.

FAQs

How is "electric current" measured?

Electric current is measured in amperes (A), which quantify the amount of electric charge flowing per unit of time. Devices like ammeters are used to measure the "amperage" in a circuit.

What's the difference between "electric current" and voltage?

While both are fundamental to electricity, "electric current" is the flow of electric charge, while voltage is the electrical potential difference that drives the current. Think of voltage as the pressure and current as the flow rate.

What are common sources of "electric current"?

Common sources include batteries, which provide direct current (DC), and power outlets, which provide alternating current (AC). Solar panels also convert light into "electric stream".

Is "electrical current" the same as "electric current"?

Yes, "electrical current" and "electric current" are generally used interchangeably. Both terms refer to the flow of electric charge. Although "electric current" is slightly more common, "electrical current" is also correct.