ethernet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ethernet" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a family of computer networking technologies commonly used for local area networks (LANs). Example: "To connect the devices in the office, we will use ethernet cables for a stable and fast network connection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Indeed, by 1996, Cisco was selling more Ethernet equipment than 3Com, says Eve Griliches, an analyst at IDC, a market-research company.

The Economist

The latest digital sets from LG, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Sony and Vizio come with Ethernet sockets ready to be connected to the internet, so they can download video from YouTube, Netflix, Amazon and the like.The video-game industry is also cashing in on the internet-television boom.

The Economist

Unlike a wireless 3G/4G modem, it doesn't use cellphone networks to connect to the internet, so you'll need actually to plug it in to a live ethernet outlet (or a computer that's already connected to the web).

The Economist

It has no queues at check-in or security, a departure lounge with plentiful, conveniently placed electrical sockets, free Wi-Fi (and ethernet sockets), and inexpensive Lithuanian food (and beer) on offer in the Lighthouse restaurant.

The Economist

Model B, with a built-in network adapter plus an Ethernet port, a second USB socket and double the amount of RAM (512 megabytes), costs just $35.

The Economist

Plug the Tworse Key into a computer via an ethernet cable and let it find the internet.

The Economist

The panel plugs into an Ethernet jack on the home network, and relays alarm signals to operators.

The Economist

The ethernet cable is wrapped in cloth for that classic feel.The American Radio Relay League, the country's amateur radio association, has been in touch about including the Tworse Key in a book spotlighting projects that "hams" might build.

The Economist

When the cable companies started offering people broadband connections, it took one van, one Ethernet card, two technicians and three hours.

The Economist

The PC's explosive growth during the 1980s dragged Ethernet along with it.

The Economist

Boeing also had to retrofit Wi-Fi (and, in some cases, Ethernet cabling) inside planes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing network setups, specify the ethernet standard (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet) to provide precise information about network speed and capabilities.

Common error

Avoid using "ethernet" as a synonym for "internet access". Ethernet is a networking technology, while internet access refers to the ability to connect to the global internet. Using a phrase like "wired internet" can help make the distinction clearer.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ethernet" is as a noun. It typically refers to a specific type of computer networking technology, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ethernet" functions primarily as a noun denoting a widely used computer networking technology. It appears very frequently across various contexts, including News & Media and Formal & Business settings. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is grammatically correct. While it's crucial to avoid using "ethernet" interchangeably with general internet access, the related phrases such as "local area network" or "wired network connection" can provide alternative ways to express related concepts. The prevalence of "ethernet" in authoritative sources such as The Economist and IEEE underscores its significance in the tech landscape.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

LAN cable

Synonymous term for ethernet cable.

local area network

Refers to the network type where ethernet is typically used.

wired network connection

Highlights the wired aspect of ethernet connectivity.

gigabit ethernet

Refers to a faster version of ethernet.

network cabling

Focuses on the physical infrastructure component of ethernet.

wired internet

Focuses on using ethernet for internet access

RJ45 connection

Specifies the connector type commonly used with ethernet.

fast ethernet

Denotes a faster ethernet standard.

IEEE 802.3

Denotes the standard that defines ethernet technology.

physical network interface

Emphasizes ethernet as a hardware component.

FAQs

How can I use "ethernet" in a sentence?

You can use "ethernet" to refer to the physical cabling and networking protocol used to create a local area network. For example: "The server is connected to the network via an ethernet cable."

What's a simple explanation of what "ethernet" is?

"Ethernet" is a standard for connecting computers in a local network, typically using cables. It allows devices to communicate with each other within that network and access the internet if the network is connected to it.

What is the difference between "ethernet" and Wi-Fi?

"Ethernet" refers to a wired network connection, whereas Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology. Ethernet generally offers a more stable and faster connection than Wi-Fi, but it requires a physical cable.

Are there alternatives to using "ethernet" cables for networking?

Yes, alternatives to ethernet include Wi-Fi, which provides a wireless connection, and powerline adapters, which use your home's electrical wiring to create a network. However, for devices that require a very stable connection, "wired network connection", such as for gaming or video editing, ethernet is often preferred.